Living Comfortably on 800 USD Monthly in Ghana
Considering Ghana as a potential new home? The question of whether 800 USD monthly is enough for a comfortable life with one to two people is often on your mind. This article will break down the cost of living in Ghana and help you make an informed decision.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The affordability of living on 800 USD monthly in Ghana depends significantly on your lifestyle and location within the country. Let's take a closer look at the key expenses:
Housing
Rent: One-bedroom apartments in decent neighborhoods can range from 300 to 600 USD in Accra. However, in smaller cities or rural areas, you might find more budget-friendly options.
Utilities
Electricity, Water, Internet: Basic utilities can cost between 50 to 150 USD per month, depending on your usage and location.
Food
Groceries: A budget of around 100 to 200 USD per month can cover groceries if you do most of your cooking at home. Eating out at local restaurants is generally affordable, with meals costing between 2 to 10 USD.
Transportation
Public Transport: Public transport in Ghana is cheap, with monthly costs ranging from 20 to 50 USD depending on your frequency of travel.
Healthcare
Health Insurance Medical Expenses: While basic healthcare is affordable, private services can be more costly. Health insurance might be a prudent investment, especially for those with ongoing medical conditions.
Feasibility and Lifestyle Choices
The feasibility of living on 800 USD per month in Ghana largely depends on your lifestyle and specific choices. Here are some considerations:
On a Budget of 800 USD
Accra: You might need to be particularly frugal if you want to live in Accra, the capital. However, a modest lifestyle in a more affordable city or with a less expensive area could make it manageable for one person. For two people, it might be more challenging, but still possible with careful budgeting.
Location and Expense Management
Your comfort level will depend on your lifestyle, such as dining out frequently or engaging in leisure activities. By managing your expenses carefully and choosing a less expensive location, you can still live comfortably.
Conclusion
While 800 USD monthly can be sufficient for basic living, the level of comfort is highly dependent on your specific choices and location in Ghana. Here's a summary of the considerations:
Managing Your Budget
Living in your own space can help you manage your budget and save for the future. The 800 USD monthly budget is equivalent to about 10,000 Ghanaian Cedis (GHC). If you are not spendthrifts, this amount can stretch further.
Remember, the key to living comfortably on a tight budget in Ghana is to find a balance between your lifestyle and your financial means. With the right choices, 800 USD can indeed support a comfortable life for one to two people.