Cost of living in Tamale

Tamale, located in the northern region of Ghana, is a vibrant city known for its rich culture and growing economy. Understanding the cost of living in Tamale is crucial for both residents and newcomers, as it provides insights into budgeting and financial planning.

This guide offers a detailed breakdown of various expenses in Tamale, including dining, transportation, and other essential costs, helping you make informed decisions about living in this dynamic city.

An image showcasing the beauty of Tamale

People enjoying the surroundings of Tamale

Cost of Living Summary

Dining and Restaurants

Inexpensive Restaurant MealA meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Tamale averages $1.87.
Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's)A McMeal or equivalent combo meal costs around $1.56.
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)Domestic beer is priced at approximately $0.44 for a 0.5-liter draught.
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)Imported beer costs about $0.62 for a 0.33-liter bottle.
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)A 0.33-liter bottle of Coke or Pepsi is priced at $0.31.
Water (0.33 liter bottle)A 0.33-liter bottle of water costs around $0.25.
Cappuccino (regular)A regular cappuccino is available for $0.62.

Transportation

Public Transport (One-Way Ticket)A one-way ticket for local transport in Tamale costs about $0.62.

Childcare

International Primary School, Yearly for 1 ChildThe annual cost for international primary school for one child is approximately $6241.05.

Cost of Living Data

The following pricing data has been gathered from 4 user contributions, as of the most recent update in January, 2024.

Restaurants

Avg / Range

Restaurants

Avg

Range

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

$1.87

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)

$1.56

Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$0.44

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.62

Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.31

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.25

Cappuccino (regular)

$0.62

Markets

Avg / Range

Markets

Avg

Range

Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)

$0.94

Transportation

Avg / Range

Transportation

Avg

Range

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

$0.62

Childcare

Avg / Range

Childcare

Avg

Range

International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child

$6,241.05

Worldwide

Ghana

Cost of Living Rankings

The cost of living indices for Ghana are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Ghana, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.

Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025

Accra

Ghana

Overview Job Market

Tamale Cost of Living

"Key Takeaways"

Tamale offers a relatively low cost of living, especially in terms of dining and transportation. Meals and beverages are affordable, making it easier to manage daily expenses.
Transportation costs are minimal, with public transport being a cost-effective option for getting around the city.
However, international primary school fees are significant, which is an important consideration for families moving to Tamale.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tamale presents an affordable living environment with low costs in dining and transportation. This makes it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to manage their expenses effectively.

While the cost of international education is high, the overall affordability of other living expenses can help balance the budget for those considering relocation to this vibrant city.