Cost of Living in Angola

Download our Moving to Angola Guide (PDF)

The Angolan capital of Luanda is perhaps not as affordable as you might think. Just a few years ago, the cost of living in Luanda ranked alongside or above that of global economic giants such as Singapore and Tokyo.

Fortunately, that’s no longer the case. The 2024 Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking places Luanda as the 158th most expensive city to live in out of the 226 cities surveyed.

Your highest expenses will likely be accommodation and private schooling. Luckily, if you are moving to Angola for work, your employer often partially or fully subsidises these costs. Without such an arrangement, you should budget carefully to ensure you can afford these essentials.

Cost of accommodation in Angola

The high cost of accommodation in Angola is due to a notable gulf between supply and demand. Low supply and a lack of secure housing have driven up rental prices. Nevertheless, most expats will have their accommodation provided and paid for by their employers. If not, factoring this cost in during your salary negotiations is essential.

Cost of transport in Angola

The cost of transport in Angola can vary considerably, depending on the method and distance. While public transport is affordable, the system is not without issues: overcrowding and irregular service can make it an unreliable choice.

For many expats, using private taxis or hiring a personal driver proves a more comfortable, albeit pricier, alternative. That said, due to the road conditions across the country, if you opt for personal vehicles, you must be prepared to endure high fuel prices and maintenance costs.

Cost of groceries in Angola

Shopping for groceries in Angola can be pricier than you might expect, especially for imported goods. Local markets are a popular choice for fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally sourced meats, which tend to be reasonably priced.

If you are accustomed to Western-brand products, you may find these significantly costlier due to import taxes and logistical challenges. For this reason, you might adjust your diet to incorporate more locally produced foods, which are more cost-effective and support the local economy.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Angola

The cost of entertainment and eating out in Angola offers a mixed bag. High-end restaurants and bars in Luanda can be quite expensive, rivalling those in major Western cities. On the other hand, budget-friendly local eateries offer a taste of traditional Angolan cuisine at a fraction of the cost.

When it comes to entertainment, costs can also vary. Cultural attractions like museums and galleries are generally affordable, while tickets for concerts or theatre shows can be pricey. As a rule, you should expect to pay a premium for activities and venues that cater to a more international audience.

Cost of education in Angola

If you have children, the cost of living in Angola rises significantly. As the standard of local public and private schools is largely considered inadequate, outrageously-priced international schools are the only remaining option. Annual tuition fees often don’t include essentials such as textbooks, uniforms, and extracurricular activities, so you must also budget for these.

Cost of healthcare in Angola

Healthcare in Angola is an area where costs can escalate quickly. While there is a public healthcare system, it is frequently under-resourced and understaffed, leading many expats to seek private healthcare. That said, private medical facilities typically charge steep fees for their services.

Besides these direct costs, comprehensive health insurance is a must for expats, which can also add significantly to your monthly budget. Consequently, we recommend securing a health allowance or health insurance coverage from your employer as part of your relocation package.