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Living in Ivory Coast: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Ivory Coast | Expat Exchange
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Ivory Coast

Living in Ivory Coast

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 08, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Ivory Coast as vibrant and diverse. Expats love the warm climate, friendly people, and the abundance of natural beauty. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The approximate population of Ivory Coast is 24.7 million people. The largest cities in Ivory Coast are Abidjan, Bouaké, Daloa, Yamoussoukro, and San-Pédro. The cons of living in Ivory Coast include a lack of infrastructure, high crime rates, and a lack of access to quality healthcare. Additionally, the cost of living can be high for expats, and the language barrier can be difficult to overcome.

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What do I need to know about living in Ivory Coast?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ivory Coast, they said:

"Before retiring in Ivory Coast, expats should research the cost of living in the country and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Expats should also consider the safety and security situation in the country, and make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before arriving. Additionally, expats should research the availability of banking and financial services, as well as the tax implications of living in Ivory Coast," explained one expat living in Ivory Coast.

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How do I meet people in Ivory Coast?

When we asked people living in Ivory Coast about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Ivory Coast often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local markets, and exploring the city. Additionally, many expats join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Ivory Coast," explained one expat living in Ivory Coast.

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What is life like in Ivory Coast?

When we asked people living in Ivory Coast what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Ivory Coast as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The country is known for its vibrant culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country is also home to a diverse range of activities, from exploring the rainforest to visiting the bustling markets. With its warm climate and welcoming locals, Ivory Coast is an ideal destination for those looking to experience a new culture and lifestyle," commented one expat who made the move to Ivory Coast.

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Is there a lot of crime in Ivory Coast?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Yes, there is a significant amount of crime in Ivory Coast. The country has seen an increase in violent crime, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking. In addition, there is a high rate of drug trafficking and organized crime. The government has taken steps to combat these issues, but the situation remains a concern," commented one expat who made the move to Ivory Coast.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ivory Coast accepting of differences?

"Ivory Coast is a culturally diverse country, with a population made up of many different ethnic and religious groups. People in Ivory Coast are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various communities. The government has also taken steps to promote tolerance and acceptance of diversity, such as introducing laws to protect minority rights," said one expat who made the move to Ivory Coast.

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What are the schools in Ivory Coast like?

"The International School of Abidjan (ISA) is one of the best international schools in Ivory Coast. Located in the heart of Abidjan, the school offers a comprehensive education in English and French, with a focus on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, with a wide range of extracurricular activities and a strong commitment to the development of the whole child. The Lycée Français Blaise Pascal is a bilingual school in Abidjan that offers a French-English bilingual education. The school follows the French curriculum, with a focus on the development of the whole child. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Yamoussoukro (ISY) is another excellent international school in Ivory Coast. Located in Yamoussoukro, the school offers a comprehensive education in English and French, with a focus on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, with a wide range of extracurricular activities and a strong commitment to the development of the whole child. The Lycée International de Grand-Bassam is a bilingual school in Grand-Bassam that offers a French-English bilingual education. The school follows the French curriculum, with a focus on the development of the whole child. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," wrote an expat with kids at in .

Is the cost of living in Ivory Coast high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Ivory Coast, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Ivory Coast is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and region. In the larger cities, such as Abidjan, prices tend to be higher than in smaller towns and rural areas," commented one expat who made the move to Ivory Coast.

"The cost of living in Ivory Coast is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic goods and services are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living in the larger cities such as Abidjan and Bouake is higher than in the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Ivory Coast is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Ivory Coast will cost around $10 USD per person," commented one expat living in Ivory Coast.

What type of recreational facilities are in Ivory Coast?

When we asked people living in Ivory Coast about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Ivory Coast enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, parks, and sports complexes. The country's long coastline provides plenty of opportunities for beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There are also numerous parks and gardens throughout the country, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those looking for more active pursuits, there are several sports complexes, offering facilities for basketball, tennis, and other sports. Additionally, there are a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres, providing plenty of entertainment for visitors and locals alike," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Ivory Coast?

"The climate in Ivory Coast is generally hot and humid. The rainy season runs from April to July, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in May and June. The dry season runs from October to March, with the hottest months being March and April. The coastal areas tend to be cooler and more humid than the inland areas," wrote one expat living in Ivory Coast.

Are there good restaurants in Ivory Coast?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Ivory Coast is La Maison Ivoirienne, located in Abidjan. This restaurant serves traditional Ivorian cuisine, such as grilled fish, plantains, and yam. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant is La Table de Grand Bassam, located in Grand Bassam. This restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns, lobster, and crab. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes, such as Italian and French cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant and the service is excellent. Finally, La Maison des Saveurs is a popular restaurant located in Abidjan. This restaurant serves a variety of traditional Ivorian dishes, such as grilled fish, plantains, and yam. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly and attentive," wrote one expat living in Ivory Coast.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Ivory Coast?

"People living in Ivory Coast typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at roadside stalls and small shops, which are often family-run businesses. Additionally, some people may purchase items from vendors who come to their door," mentioned an expat living in Ivory Coast.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Ivory Coast?

"To enter Ivory Coast, visitors must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Ivory Coast, applicants must submit a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a valid work permit or residence permit. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," remarked one expat living in Ivory Coast.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ivory Coast?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Ivory Coast can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance program. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Ivory Coast is not always up to the standards of other countries, and medical facilities may not have the latest technology or equipment. As a result, many people in Ivory Coast rely on traditional medicine and home remedies to treat their illnesses," said an expat in Ivory Coast.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

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