216 cities covered · Currency: XOF (CFA) · Capital: Banikoara
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CFA2,309 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | CFA9,235 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | CFA693 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | CFA52,330 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | CFA8,465 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | CFA22,317 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | CFA6,464 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | CFA6,464 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | CFA1,693 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | CFA89,798 ($148) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | CFA62,468 ($103) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | CFA187,405 ($310) | per month |
Alibori · pop. 867,463
Littoral · pop. 780,000
Atlantique · pop. 253,262
Donga · pop. 237,040
Ouémé · pop. 234,168
Borgou · pop. 221,108
Borgou · pop. 206,667
Borgou · pop. 206,667
Alibori · pop. 179,290
Couffo · pop. 170,069
Borgou · pop. 168,882
Atacora · pop. 168,641
Atlantique · pop. 162,034
Plateau · pop. 156,497
Zou · pop. 149,271
Couffo · pop. 134,704
Zou · pop. 132,401
Donga · pop. 130,770
Ouémé · pop. 128,050
Atlantique · pop. 127,512
Ouémé · pop. 127,249
Collines · pop. 124,431
Plateau · pop. 123,740
Zou · pop. 123,542
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Benin
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Benin
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Benin
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Benin
Living costs in Benin vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of CFA216,380 ($358) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.