10 African cities with the highest cost of living mid 2024
The cost of living in many African cities is rising due to economic downturns. A recent Numbeo index revealed the mid-year cost of living in various African cities.
The cost of living in many African cities continues to spike due to economic downturns fueled by currency fluctuations, inflation, subsidy removals on essential commodities like fuel, and increased taxes. Hence, basic commodities, such as food and utilities, have witnessed price hikes.
A recent index by Numbeo, one of the world’s foremost data and research platforms, has revealed the cost of living in various African cities mid-year.
While some African cities have experienced notable economic growth, income inequality remains a persistent issue. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening, making it difficult for a significant portion of the population to cope with the rising cost of living.
South Africa, with the largest economy in Africa, is faced with severe economic challenges. As a result, many South African cities top the list for the highest cost of living on the continent. Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town hold the top three spots.
Following the top three South African cities is Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub.
The index utilizes variables such as the rent index, grocery index, restaurant index, cost of living plus rent index, and local purchasing power.
| Rank | City | Cost of living index | Local purchasing power index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Johannesburg, South Africa | 38.4 | 110.8 |
| 2 | Pretoria, South Africa | 35.3 | 118.8 |
| 3 | Cape Town, South Africa | 35.2 | 105.2 |
| 4 | Lagos, Nigeria | 35.1 | 13.1 |
| 5 | Durban, South Africa | 32.9 | 91.7 |
| 6 | Casablanca, Morocco | 32.8 | 38.6 |
| 7 | Accra, Ghana | 32.1 | 16.3 |
| 8 | Nairobi, Kenya | 31.7 | 34.5 |
| 9 | Algiers, Algeria | 29.8 | 30.0 |
| 10 | Tunis, Tunisia | 29.8 | 30.6 |
