Living in Ghana
Last updated on Mar 10, 2024
Summary: People describe life in Ghana as vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity. Expats love the friendly people, the beautiful landscapes, and the rich culture. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month. The approximate population of Ghana is 30 million, and the largest cities are Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Sekondi-Takoradi. The cons of living in Ghana include the high cost of living, the lack of infrastructure, and the prevalence of crime.
What do I need to know about living in Ghana?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ghana, they said:
"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Ghana to ensure they can afford to retire there. 2. It is important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. 3. Expats should also research the healthcare system in Ghana to ensure they have access to quality medical care. 4. Expats should also consider the climate in Ghana and the availability of activities and amenities that suit their lifestyle. 5. It is also important to research the visa and residency requirements for expats in Ghana. 6. Expats should also consider the safety and security of the area they plan to retire in," remarked one expat who made the move to Ghana.
"Housing is extremely expensive so make sure that your company provides adequate housing allowance as even the most expensive properties are of low quality. If you do not have an adequate housing allowance you might end up in a not very pleasant part of town and in a house that is virtually uninhabitable. Cost of living here is generally very expensive," explained one expat living in Accra, Ghana.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Ghana?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Ghana?
- Will I be able to find a job in Ghana?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Ghana appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Ghana?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ghana accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Ghana like?
- How are healthcare services in Ghana?
- What are medical services in Ghana like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ghana?
- What are emergency services like in Ghana?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Ghana?
- How are local medical facilities in Ghana?
- As a foreigner living in Ghana, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?