Accra has been ranked the eighth most expensive city in Africa in 2026, underscoring persistent cost-of-living pressures in Ghana despite signs of macroeconomic stabilisation.
Data from Numbeo’s 2026 Cost of Living Index places Accra 8th out of 22 major African cities, with a cost of living index of 36.6. While not the most expensive on the continent, the capital remains in the upper tier, reflecting high household expenses relative to income levels.
Accra ranks second in West Africa behind Abidjan and ahead of cities such as Nairobi, Tunis and Cairo. Groceries and food-related costs are the main drivers, with a high groceries index of 42.4 and elevated restaurant prices. Rent costs are relatively moderate, suggesting housing is not the primary source of pressure.
However, Accra’s purchasing power index of 12.7—one of the weakest in Africa—means residents feel the cost burden more sharply, as incomes buy significantly less compared to peer cities.
The ranking highlights the need for policies focused on reducing food costs, strengthening supply chains and improving real incomes to ease pressure on urban households as Ghana’s economic recovery continues.
