Cost of Living in Côte d'Ivoire
for Expats 2026

Abidjan dominates the rental market with expatriate neighborhoods in Cocody, Plateau, and Deux-Plateaux offering one-bedroom apartments at $400–$750 monthly, furnished or unfurnished. Shared accommodation in student/young professional areas drops to $150–$300. Secondary cities (Yamoussoukro, Bouaké) rent one-bedroom apartments for $100–$200. Unfinished properties are common and often cheaper; finish-work negotiations are expected. Most expat housing comes through employer connections or established rental agencies catering to international staff.

Côte d'Ivoire's markets overflow with tropical produce: cassava, plantains, yams, mangoes, pineapples at $1–$4 per kg. Local staples (rice, beans, palm oil) are extremely affordable. Imported goods carry 30–50% premiums; specialty Western groceries available in Abidjan's modern supermarkets (Carrefour, Monoprix) at Paris-equivalent pricing. Monthly food budget: $80–$150 on full local diet; $200–$350 including imported staples and restaurant visits.

Abidjan's public transport consists of shared minibuses (woros) and taxis—cheap ($0.30–$1 per ride) but chaotic during rush hour. Motorcycles (motos) are ubiquitous and affordable ($400–$800 to purchase). Most expats hire drivers ($300–$500 monthly) or use Uber, available in Abidjan at $3–$8 per ride. Fuel: $1.05/liter. Road conditions outside Abidjan vary; vehicle ownership requires patience and 4WD in rainy season.

Abidjan has several quality private clinics: Polyclinique Valmont, Clinique de l'Abrégé. Consultation fees: $30–$60. Public hospital care is available but expats typically avoid due to overcrowding and supply shortages. Serious illnesses often require evacuation to Ghana or Europe; medical evacuation insurance ($80–$200 annually) is strongly recommended. Pharmacies stock common medications; specialized drugs may require advance ordering from overseas.