Angola flagEconomy Guide · Angola

Economy Guide in Angola

Economic overview, job market trends, income levels, and financial landscape for expats

Economic Overview

GDP

$135.97B

Total economic output of the country

HDI

0.59

Medium human development

Quality of Life

70/100

Good quality of life — above global average

Purchasing Power

113/100

Strong purchasing power — high local buying capacity

Comparison data legendCompare:
Country
Continent Avg

Cost of Living Index

0510
Affordable

The Cost of Living Index in Angola is 41.5, indicating it is affordable compared to NYC. Groceries (index: 39.4) and restaurants (index: 34.7) are also relatively inexpensive.

Housing Market

0510
Moderate

The Property Price to Income Ratio is 8.2 years, suggesting a moderate housing market. The Rent Index is 22.2, indicating relatively affordable rental costs.

Average Income Levels

0510
Excellent

Angola has an excellent Purchasing Power Index of 217.2, indicating strong buying power for residents.

Tax System

0510
Moderate

Angola has a progressive personal income tax system with rates ranging from 0% to 25%, with the first AOA 100,000 monthly being tax-free. The standard VAT rate is 14%, with reduced rates of 5% for essential goods and 7% for hotel and restaurant services. Property tax on rental income is 25% (effective 15%), and a 2% property transfer tax applies. Social security contributions are 3% for employees and 8% for employers.

Business Environment

0510
Moderate

Angola's business environment is evolving, with a growing but still formative startup ecosystem ranked #108 globally in 2025. The country recently passed a Startup Law (March 2026) to reduce regulatory burdens and stimulate innovation. Challenges include limited access to early-stage funding, with only 2% of startups accessing venture capital.

Social Security

0510
Moderate

Angola has a contributory social security system covering old-age pensions, disability, and survivor benefits, with employees contributing 3% and employers 8%. Public healthcare is free but faces challenges in quality and access, leading many expats to use private facilities. While maternity and family benefits exist, a formal unemployment insurance system is not yet implemented, though it is under study.

Banking & Financial Safety

0510
Moderate

Angola's Deposit Guarantee Fund (FGD) protects deposits up to Kz 12,500,000 (approximately USD 13,617) per depositor per institution. While the National Bank of Angola oversees the banking sector, opening a bank account for foreigners is rated as challenging, often requiring a residence permit and in-person application.

Deposit Protection: up to $13,617 USD (see sources)