Cost of Living in Cameroon

Cameroon is located in Central Africa and offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other countries. However, expenses can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Overview of The Cost of Living in Cameroon

The cost of living in Cameroon depends on your location, lifestyle and access to services. Bigger cities like Douala and Yaoundé usually have higer prices, especially for housing, imported goods, and dining out. Smaller towns and rural areas are much more affordable.

Cameroon mixes modern infra with traditional local markets, so residents have options to manage their expenses and still enjoy convenience.

Here is a look at the main everyday costs you can expect in Cameroon:

NOTE: conversion rate used: 1 USD = 600 XAF

Housing 🏠

Housing costs in Cameroon vary depending on the location, with city centers being more expensive than suburban or rural areas. While major cities like Douala and Yaoundé have higher rental prices, smaller towns offer more affordable housing. Utilities and internet costs are generally moderate, but power outages may affect electricity reliability in some regions.

Property and Mortgage Purchase

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (XAF)
Mortgage Interest Rate (20 Years)	12.96% annually	–
Apartment Purchase (City Center)	$1,525/m²	915,000 XAF/m²
House Purchase (Suburbs)	$746/m²	447,600 XAF/m²

Utilities: Monthly utility bills, including electricity, water, and gas, typically cost $50–$100 (30,000–60,000 XAF).

Food 🍽️

Cameroon's food expenses depend on dietary choices and shopping habits. Locally sourced groceries, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and staple foods, are affordable, whereas imported goods tend to be more expensive.

Eating outside at local restaurants tends to be budget friendly, while mid range dining is pricy in city areas.

🛒 Grocery & Household Prices (Average Costs)

Dining Out Costs

Transportation 🚕

Public transportation in Cameroon is pretty cheap, with shared taxis and minibuses as common options. Private taxies are available but cost more, especially for longer trips. Fuel prices in Cameroon stay steady but owning a car is often pricey because of import taxes.

Healthcare 🏥

The healthcare system in Cameroon consists of both public and private facilities. Public healthcare is more affordable but may lack advanced medical equipment, while private clinics offer better services at higher costs. Health insurance options are available, though coverage varies by provider.

Public Healthcare: Affordable but may lack advanced facilities. Private Healthcare: Costs vary, with consultations ranging from $20–$50 (12,000–30,000 XAF). Health Insurance: Monthly premiums depend on the provider and coverage but are generally affordable.

Education 📚

Educational expenses in Cameroon depend on the type of school. Public school education is free or low cost, while private ones charge tuition. International schools are even more expensive, serving mainly expatriates and high income families. Additional costs for uniforms and school supplies apply across all education levels.

Public Schools: Free or low-cost for residents, but additional expenses for uniforms and supplies apply. Private Schools: Tuition fees range from $500–$2,000 annually (300,000–1,200,000 XAF). International Schools: More expensive, with annual fees ranging from $5,000–$10,000 (3,000,000–6,000,000 XAF).

Entertainment and Leisure 🎉

Entertainment options in Cameroon range from cinemas and bars to sports and fitness activities. Nightlife is relatively affordable, with drinks at local bars costing much less than in high-end venues. Gym memberships and recreational activities are also available at reasonable prices, especially in major cities.

Cinemas: A movie ticket costs around $5–$10 (3,000–6,000 XAF). Nightlife: Drinks at bars range from $2–$5 (1,200–3,000 XAF). Sports and Fitness: Gym memberships cost approximately $30–$50 (18,000–30,000 XAF) per month.

Miscellaneous Expenses 💰

Additional living costs in Cameroon include mobile phone and internet bills, clothing, and personal care items. While local markets offer affordable shopping options, branded and imported goods are more expensive. Internet costs vary depending on speed and service provider, with urban areas having better connectivity.

Mobile Phones: Monthly plans range from $10–$30 (6,000–18,000 XAF). Internet: High-speed internet costs around $30–$50 (18,000–30,000 XAF) per month. Clothing: Prices for clothing and shoes vary, with local markets offering affordable options.

Cost of Living in the Top 6 Cities of Cameroon

The cost of living in Cameroon depends on the city you reside in. Douala and Yaoundé are expensive. While Buea and Garoua are cheaper. Here is a breakdown of expenses in the top cities:

1. Douala – The Economic Capital

As Cameroon’s largest city and economic hub, Douala offers a vibrant lifestyle with a relatively high cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

🏠 Accommodation Costs (Monthly Rent)

• Single-bedroom apartments
  • In the city center: 150,000 - 400,000 XAF
  • Outside city center: 100,000 - 250,000 XAF
• Three-bedroom apartments
  • City center: 300,000 - 800,000 XAF
  • Suburban areas: 200,000 - 500,000 XAF
• Villa rentals
  • Starting from 600,000 XAF, depending on size and location

🍽️ Dining Out

• Budget meal at a local restaurant:2,000 - 5,000 XAF
• Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant:10,000 - 25,000 XAF
• Fast food combo meal:3,500 - 7,000 XAF
• Coffee (Cappuccino):1,500 - 3,500 XAF
• Beer (local, 0.5L):1,500 - 3,500 XAF
• Imported beer (0.33L):2,000 - 5,000 XAF
• Bottled water (0.33L):300 - 800 XAF
• Soft drinks (0.33L):500 - 1,500 XAF

🛒 Grocery Prices

• Basic food items:
  • Milk (1L): 1,000 - 2,500 XAF
  • Loaf of bread (500g): 500 - 1,500 XAF
  • Rice (1kg): 600 - 1,500 XAF
  • Eggs (12 pcs): 1,500 - 3,500 XAF
  • Chicken fillets (1kg): 2,500 - 5,000 XAF
  • Beef (1kg): 3,500 - 7,000 XAF
• Fruits and vegetables:
  • Apples (1kg): 2,000 - 4,000 XAF
  • Bananas (1kg): 800 - 2,500 XAF
  • Oranges (1kg): 1,000 - 3,000 XAF
  • Tomatoes (1kg): 600 - 2,000 XAF
  • Potatoes (1kg): 500 - 1,500 XAF
  • Onions (1kg): 500 - 1,500 XAF

🚌 Transportation Expenses

• Public transport (one-way ticket):250 - 500 XAF
• Monthly transport pass:10,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Taxi fares:
  • Short ride within the city: 1,000 - 3,000 XAF
  • Per kilometer: 500 - 1,500 XAF
  • One-hour waiting charge: 5,000 - 15,000 XAF
• Fuel prices:750 - 900 XAF per liter

⚡ Utility Bills (Monthly)

• Electricity, water, garbage collection:50,000 - 150,000 XAF
• Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited):20,000 - 50,000 XAF
• Mobile plan with data:5,000 - 15,000 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle

• Gym membership:20,000 - 50,000 XAF per month
• Tennis court rental (1 hour):10,000 - 25,000 XAF
• Movie ticket:2,500 - 5,000 XAF
• Wine (mid-range bottle):5,000 - 15,000 XAF
• Cigarettes (Marlboro, 20-pack):2,000 - 5,000 XAF

🎓 Education & Childcare

• Preschool (private, full-day):100,000 - 300,000 XAF per month
• International primary school:1,500,000 - 5,000,000 XAF per year

👗 Clothing & Shopping

• Jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar):10,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.):8,000 - 25,000 XAF
• Nike running shoes:25,000 - 50,000 XAF
• Men’s leather business shoes:30,000 - 60,000 XAF

🏡 Buying an Apartment

• Price per square meter in city center:500,000 - 1,200,000 XAF
• Outside city center:300,000 - 900,000 XAF

💰 Salaries & Financial Overview

• Average net monthly salary:250,000 - 700,000 XAF
• Mortgage interest rate (fixed for 20 years):7% - 12%

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

• Apartments (1 Bedroom):
  • City Centre: 150,000 - 400,000 XAF
  • Outside City Centre: 100,000 - 250,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms):
  • City Centre: 300,000 - 800,000 XAF
  • Outside City Centre: 200,000 - 500,000 XAF
• Villas: 600,000 XAF and above (varies based on location and size)

2. Yaoundé – The Political Capital

Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, serves as the country’s political and administrative center. It has both a modern infrastructure and traditional markets, with options for living conditions, from upscale neighborhoods to more affordable suburban areas. Cost of living depends on lifestyle, and international amenities add extra costs.

🏠 Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

• Apartments (1 Bedroom, City Centre):100,000 - 300,000 XAF
• Apartments (1 Bedroom, Outside City Centre):75,000 - 200,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, City Centre):250,000 - 700,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, Outside City Centre):150,000 - 400,000 XAF
• Villas:500,000 XAF and above

🍽️ Food & Dining

Eating out in Yaoundé ranges from affordable street food to fine dining experiences. While local dishes are inexpensive, international cuisine and fast food tend to cost more.

• Inexpensive Restaurant Meal:1,500 - 4,000 XAF
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meal (for 2):8,000 - 20,000 XAF
• Fast Food Combo Meal:3,000 - 6,000 XAF
• Coffee (Cappuccino):1,200 - 3,000 XAF

🛒 Groceries

Grocery prices in Yaoundé depend on whether you shop in local markets or supermarkets. Imported goods are significantly more expensive than locally sourced items.

• Milk (1 liter):900 - 2,000 XAF
• Rice (1 kg):500 - 1,200 XAF
• Chicken (1 kg):2,000 - 4,500 XAF
• Apples (1 kg):1,500 - 3,500 XAF

🚕 Transportation

Public transport and taxis are the main modes of transport in Yaoundé. Prices vary depending on the distance and negotiation skills, as taxis often operate on a shared basis.

• One-way Bus Ticket:250 - 500 XAF
• Taxi Ride (short city trip):800 - 2,500 XAF
• Gasoline (1 liter):750 - 900 XAF

📡 Utilities & Internet (Monthly)

Utility costs in Yaoundé can fluctuate based on electricity consumption and water availability. Internet services range from budget-friendly mobile data to high-speed fiber connections.

• Basic Utilities (Electricity, Water, Trash) for an 85m² Apartment:40,000 - 120,000 XAF
• Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps):15,000 - 40,000 XAF
• Mobile Phone Plan:5,000 - 12,000 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Leisure

Yaoundé offers various entertainment options, from cinemas and bars to gyms and cultural activities. Nightlife can be affordable or high-end, depending on the venue.

• Gym Membership:15,000 - 40,000 XAF
• Cinema Ticket:2,000 - 4,500 XAF

💰 Summary of Cost of Living in Yaoundé

Yaoundé is a relatively affordable city compared to other African capitals, especially for housing and local food. However, imported goods and high-end services can be costly. The city offers a mix of modern and traditional, making it a lively place to live.

3. Bafoussam – The Commercial and Agricultural Hub

Bafoussam, the capital of the West Region of Cameroon, is a growing urban center with a cost of living that is generally more affordable compared to larger cities like Douala and Yaoundé. Below is a breakdown of common expenses:

🍽️ Food & Groceries

• Business district lunch (including a drink):3,717 XAF
• Fast food combo meal (Big Mac or similar):3,540 XAF
• Boneless chicken breast (500g):1,411 XAF
• Whole fat milk (1L):1,800 XAF
• Large eggs (12 pcs):1,044 XAF
• Tomatoes (1kg):500 XAF
• Local cheese (500g):3,000 XAF
• Apples (1kg):2,000 XAF
• Potatoes (1kg):449 XAF
• Domestic beer (0.5L) from supermarket:651 XAF
• Good quality red table wine (1 bottle):4,299 XAF
• Coca-Cola (2L):895 XAF
• Daily bread for two people:300 XAF

🏠 Housing & Utilities

• Furnished 85m² apartment (expensive area): 275,659 XAF
• Furnished 85m² apartment (normal area): -
• Utility bills (electricity, heating, gas) for 85m² apartment (2 people): 17,434 XAF
• Furnished 45m² studio (expensive area): 150,000 XAF
• Furnished 45m² studio (normal area): -
• Utility bills (electricity, heating, gas) for 45m² studio (1 person): 12,000 XAF
• Internet (8 Mbps, per month): 14,736 XAF
• 40” flat-screen TV: 175,659 XAF
• Microwave (800/900W, Bosch/Panasonic/LG/Sharp): 300,000 XAF
• Laundry detergent (3L): 3,992 XAF
• Hourly rate for cleaning help: -

👗 Clothing & Footwear

• Jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar):15,000 XAF
• Summer dress (Zara, H&M, or similar):25,000 XAF
• Sports shoes (Nike, Adidas, or similar):15,132 XAF
• Men’s leather business shoes:22,302 XAF

🚌 Transportation

• Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 150 CV (or equivalent, new):2,756,590 XAF
• Gasoline (1L):754 XAF
• Monthly public transport pass:30,000 XAF

💊 Personal Care & Health

• Cold medicine (Tylenol/Frenadol/Coldrex, 6-day supply): 1,000 XAF
• Box of antibiotics (12 doses): -
• Short visit to a private doctor (15 minutes): -
• Tampons (32-pack, Tampax/OB): 2,000 XAF
• Roll-on deodorant (50ml): 2,500 XAF
• 2-in-1 Shampoo (400ml): 1,500 XAF
• Toilet paper (4 rolls): 1,300 XAF
• Toothpaste (1 tube): 1,500 XAF
• Men’s standard haircut (expat area): 5,000 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle

• Casual dinner for two at a neighborhood pub:10,000 XAF
• Movie tickets (2 persons):5,000 XAF
• Theater tickets (best available seats, 2 persons):-
• Italian restaurant dinner for two (includes appetizers, main course, wine, and dessert):32,211 XAF
• Cocktail in a downtown club:8,701 XAF
• Cappuccino (expat area):2,500 XAF
• Beer in a neighborhood pub (500ml):854 XAF
• iPad Wi-Fi 128GB:-
• Prepaid mobile tariff (1 min, no discount plans):81 XAF
• Monthly gym membership (business district):20,000 XAF
• Pack of Marlboro cigarettes:800 XAF

💰 Summary of Cost of Living in Bafoussam

Bafoussam offers a moderate cost of living, with lower food and utility prices compared to Cameroon’s other big cities. However, imported electronics and brand-name products are still costly. Public transport is cheap, and housing varies by area.

4. Bamenda – The Cultural and Political Hub of Anglophone Cameroon

Bamenda, the capital of the Northwest Region of Cameroon, offers a lower cost of living compared to larger cities like Douala and Yaoundé. Below is a breakdown of daily expenses in the city.

🍽️ Food & Groceries

• Business district lunch (including a drink):3,500 XAF
• Fast food combo meal (Big Mac or similar):3,200 XAF
• Boneless chicken breast (500g):1,350 XAF
• Whole fat milk (1L):1,700 XAF
• Large eggs (12 pcs):980 XAF
• Tomatoes (1kg):450 XAF
• Local cheese (500g):2,800 XAF
• Apples (1kg):1,900 XAF
• Potatoes (1kg):420 XAF
• Domestic beer (0.5L) from supermarket:630 XAF
• Good quality red table wine (1 bottle):4,000 XAF
• Coca-Cola (2L):850 XAF
• Daily bread for two people:280 XAF

🏠 Housing & Utilities

• Furnished 85m² apartment (expensive area): 250,000 XAF
• Furnished 85m² apartment (normal area): 180,000 XAF
• Utility bills (electricity, heating, gas) for 85m² apartment (2 people): 16,500 XAF
• Furnished 45m² studio (expensive area): 140,000 XAF
• Furnished 45m² studio (normal area): 100,000 XAF
• Utility bills (electricity, heating, gas) for 45m² studio (1 person): 11,500 XAF
• Internet (8 Mbps, per month): 13,500 XAF
• 40” flat-screen TV: 170,000 XAF
• Microwave (800/900W, Bosch/Panasonic/LG/Sharp): 280,000 XAF
• Laundry detergent (3L): 3,800 XAF
• Hourly rate for cleaning help: 1,500 XAF

👗 Clothing & Footwear

• Jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar):14,500 XAF
• Summer dress (Zara, H&M, or similar):24,000 XAF
• Sports shoes (Nike, Adidas, or similar):14,800 XAF
• Men’s leather business shoes:21,500 XAF

🚌 Transportation

• Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 150 CV (or equivalent, new):2,700,000 XAF
• Gasoline (1L):740 XAF
• Monthly public transport pass:28,000 XAF
• Taxi (short city ride):1,000 - 2,500 XAF

💊 Personal Care & Health

• Cold medicine (Tylenol/Frenadol/Coldrex, 6-day supply):1,000 XAF
• Box of antibiotics (12 doses):2,500 XAF
• Short visit to a private doctor (15 minutes):8,000 XAF
• Tampons (32-pack, Tampax/OB):1,900 XAF
• Roll-on deodorant (50ml):2,400 XAF
• 2-in-1 Shampoo (400ml):1,400 XAF
• Toilet paper (4 rolls):1,200 XAF
• Toothpaste (1 tube):1,400 XAF
• Men’s standard haircut (expat area):4,500 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle

• Casual dinner for two at a neighborhood pub:9,500 XAF
• Movie tickets (2 persons):4,500 XAF
• Theater tickets (best available seats, 2 persons):-
• Italian restaurant dinner for two (includes appetizers, main course, wine, and dessert):30,500 XAF
• Cocktail in a downtown club:8,200 XAF
• Cappuccino (expat area):2,300 XAF
• Beer in a neighborhood pub (500ml):820 XAF
• iPad Wi-Fi 128GB:-
• Prepaid mobile tariff (1 min, no discount plans):75 XAF
• Monthly gym membership (business district):18,500 XAF
• Pack of Marlboro cigarettes:750 XAF

💰 Summary of Cost of Living in Bamenda

Bamenda is a more affordable city compared to Douala and Yaoundé, especially for housing, transportation, and food. However, imported goods and electronics are still expensive. The city offers a decent quality of life for those seeking a lower-cost alternative in Cameroon.

5. Buea – The University and Tech Hub

Buea, the capital of the Southwest Region of Cameroon, is a vibrant city known for its university culture, tech startups, and moderate cost of living. Below is a breakdown of living expenses in the city.

🏠 Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

• Apartments (1 Bedroom, City Centre):50,000 - 120,000 XAF
• Apartments (1 Bedroom, Outside City Centre):40,000 - 100,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, City Centre): 150,000 - 300,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, Outside City Centre):100,000 - 250,000 XAF
• Villas:350,000 XAF and above (varies based on size and location)

🍽️ Food & Dining

• Inexpensive Restaurant Meal:1,000 - 2,500 XAF
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meal (for 2):5,000 - 10,000 XAF
• Fast Food Combo Meal:2,500 - 5,000 XAF
• Cappuccino:1,200 - 2,500 XAF

🛒 Groceries

• Milk (1 liter): 800 - 1,500 XAF
• Rice (1 kg): 500 - 1,200 XAF
• Chicken (1 kg): 2,000 - 4,500 XAF
• Apples (1 kg): 1,500 - 3,500 XAF
• Bread (500g): 300 - 700 XAF
• Tomatoes (1 kg): 400 - 1,000 XAF
• Domestic Beer (0.5L, Supermarket): 600 - 1,200 XAF
• Table Wine (1 Bottle, Good Quality): 3,500 - 7,000 XAF
• 2 Liters of Coca-Cola: 900 - 1,500 XAF

🚕 Transportation

• One-way Bus Ticket:250 - 600 XAF
• Taxi Ride (short city trip):500 - 1,200 XAF
• Gasoline (1 liter):750 - 900 XAF
• Monthly Public Transport Pass:25,000 - 35,000 XAF

📡 Utilities & Internet (Monthly)

• Basic Utilities (Electricity, Water, Trash) for an 85m² Apartment: 30,000 - 80,000 XAF
• Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps): 15,000 - 40,000 XAF
• Mobile Phone Plan: 5,000 - 12,000 XAF

👗 Clothing & Footwear

• Jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar):12,000 - 20,000 XAF
• Summer Dress (Zara, H&M, or similar brands):18,000 - 35,000 XAF
• Sports Shoes (Nike, Adidas, or similar brands):15,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Men’s Leather Business Shoes:25,000 - 50,000 XAF

💊 Personal Care & Healthcare

• Cold Medicine (Tylenol, Frenadol, Coldrex, etc., 6-day supply): 1,000 - 3,000 XAF
• Antibiotics (12 doses): 2,500 - 7,000 XAF
• Private Doctor Consultation (15 minutes): 7,000 - 20,000 XAF
• Tampons (32-pack, Tampax/OB): 1,800 - 3,500 XAF
• Deodorant (Roll-on, 50ml): 1,500 - 3,000 XAF
• Shampoo (400ml, 2-in-1): 1,200 - 2,500 XAF
• Toilet Paper (4 rolls): 1,000 - 2,000 XAF
• Toothpaste (1 tube): 1,200 - 2,500 XAF
• Men’s Haircut (Standard, Expat Area): 3,500 - 7,000 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Leisure

• Casual Dinner for Two in a Neighborhood Pub: 7,000 - 15,000 XAF
• Cinema Ticket (1 Person): 2,500 - 5,000 XAF
• Cocktail in Downtown Bar/Club: 4,000 - 8,000 XAF
• Beer in a Local Pub (500ml): 700 - 1,500 XAF
• Gym Membership (Monthly, Business District): 15,000 - 35,000 XAF
• iPad Wi-Fi 128GB: 700,000 XAF and above
• Prepaid Mobile Tariff (1 min, no discounts): 80 - 150 XAF
• Pack of Marlboro Cigarettes: 800 - 2,000 XAF

💰 Summary of Cost of Living in Buea

Buea is one of the most affordable cities in Cameroon, especially for students and young professionals. Rent is significantly lower than in Douala or Yaoundé, and food and transport are relatively inexpensive. However, imported goods and luxury items can be costly. The city’s tech scene and university environment make it an attractive place for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.

6. Garoua – The Northern Commercial Center

Garoua, the capital of the North Region of Cameroon, is an important commercial and agricultural hub. It is known for its warm climate, bustling markets, and growing business sector. Below is a breakdown of the cost of living in Garoua.

🏠 Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

• Apartments (1 Bedroom, City Centre):40,000 - 100,000 XAF
• Apartments (1 Bedroom, Outside City Centre):30,000 - 80,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, City Centre):120,000 - 250,000 XAF
• Apartments (3 Bedrooms, Outside City Centre):80,000 - 180,000 XAF
• Villas:250,000 XAF and above (varies based on location and size)

🍽️ Food & Dining

• Basic Lunch Menu (including a drink, business district): 2,500 - 5,000 XAF
• Fast Food Combo Meal (Big Mac or similar): 2,000 - 4,500 XAF
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meal (for 2): 7,000 - 15,000 XAF
• Cappuccino: 1,200 - 2,500 XAF

🛒 Groceries

• Milk (1 liter):700 - 1,500 XAF
• Rice (1 kg):500 - 1,200 XAF
• Chicken (1 kg):2,000 - 4,000 XAF
• Tomatoes (1 kg):400 - 1,000 XAF
• Local Cheese (500g):2,500 - 5,000 XAF
• Apples (1 kg):1,500 - 3,000 XAF
• Potatoes (1 kg):400 - 900 XAF
• Domestic Beer (0.5L, Supermarket):500 - 1,200 XAF
• Table Wine (1 Bottle, Good Quality):3,000 - 6,000 XAF
• 2 Liters of Coca-Cola:800 - 1,500 XAF
• Bread (for 2 people, 1 day):250 - 600 XAF

🚕 Transportation

• One-way Bus Ticket: 200 - 500 XAF
• Taxi Ride (short city trip): 500 - 1,500 XAF
• Gasoline (1 liter): 750 - 900 XAF
• Monthly Public Transport Pass: 20,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (or equivalent, new): 2,500,000 - 3,000,000 XAF

📡 Utilities & Internet (Monthly)

• Basic Utilities (Electricity, Water, Trash) for an 85m² Apartment:25,000 - 70,000 XAF
• Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps):10,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Mobile Phone Plan:5,000 - 10,000 XAF

👗 Clothing & Footwear

• Jeans (Levi’s 501 or similar): 10,000 - 20,000 XAF
• Summer Dress (Zara, H&M, or similar brands): 15,000 - 30,000 XAF
• Sports Shoes (Nike, Adidas, or similar brands): 12,000 - 25,000 XAF
• Men’s Leather Business Shoes: 20,000 - 40,000 XAF

💊 Personal Care & Healthcare

• Cold Medicine (Tylenol, Frenadol, Coldrex, etc., 6-day supply):800 - 3,000 XAF
• Antibiotics (12 doses):2,000 - 5,000 XAF
• Private Doctor Consultation (15 minutes):5,000 - 15,000 XAF
• Tampons (32-pack, Tampax/OB):1,500 - 3,000 XAF
• Deodorant (Roll-on, 50ml):1,200 - 2,500 XAF
• Shampoo (400ml, 2-in-1):1,000 - 2,500 XAF
• Toilet Paper (4 rolls):1,000 - 2,000 XAF
• Toothpaste (1 tube):1,200 - 2,500 XAF
• Men’s Haircut (Standard, Expat Area):3,000 - 6,000 XAF

🎉 Entertainment & Leisure

• Casual Dinner for Two in a Neighborhood Pub: 6,000 - 12,000 XAF
• Cinema Ticket (1 Person): 2,000 - 4,000 XAF
• Cocktail in Downtown Bar/Club: 3,500 - 7,000 XAF
• Beer in a Local Pub (500ml): 600 - 1,500 XAF
• Gym Membership (Monthly, Business District): 12,000 - 30,000 XAF
• iPad Wi-Fi 128GB: 600,000 XAF and above
• Prepaid Mobile Tariff (1 min, no discounts): 70 - 150 XAF
• Pack of Marlboro Cigarettes: 700 - 1,500 XAF

💰 Summary of Cost of Living in Garoua

Garoua is one of Cameroon’s most affordable cities, especially for housing and local food. However, imported goods can be expensive due to transportation costs from Douala and Yaoundé. The city offers a balance between affordability and access to key services, making it a great place for traders, entrepreneurs, and those working in agriculture or commerce.

Cost of Living in Douala vs. Other Major Cities in Cameroon

Douala, Cameroon's economic capital and largest city, has the highest cost of living compared to other major cities. Factors such as high demand for housing, transportation costs, and a greater reliance on imported goods contribute to its relatively expensive lifestyle. Below is a comparison of Douala’s living costs with those of Yaoundé, Bafoussam, Garoua, and Bamenda.

Key Observations

• Douala is the most expensive city in Cameroon, particularly for housing, utilities, and dining out. As the country’s commercial hub, demand for housing and services is high, driving up prices.
• Yaoundé is slightly cheaper than Douala, with housing and utilities being more affordable, though still higher than other cities.
• Bafoussam, Garoua, and Bamenda offer a much lower cost of living, making them attractive for those seeking affordability. Housing, food, and entertainment are significantly cheaper compared to Douala and Yaoundé.
• Internet and fuel prices remain fairly uniform across all cities, with only slight variations.
• Transportation in smaller cities is more affordable, with lower taxi fares and public transport costs compared to Douala and Yaoundé.