The cost of living in Burundi is affordable, with a Cost of Living Index (CPI) of 40.66 (NYC = 100 baseline). Groceries (43.82) and restaurant prices (35.63) are also relatively inexpensive, contributing to overall affordability.

The housing market is very expensive, indicated by a property price to income ratio of 32.24 years. While the Rent Index is low at 10.66, suggesting relatively low rental costs compared to NYC, property ownership remains a significant financial burden.

Purchasing power is low, with an index of 28.92 (NYC = 100 baseline). This indicates that the average income in Burundi provides significantly less buying power compared to New York City.

Burundi operates a progressive personal income tax system with rates ranging from 0% to 30%. The corporate tax rate is 30% after the initial five years of operation. A standard VAT rate of 18% applies to ordinary goods and services, with a reduced rate of 10% for food and farming inputs. Property taxes generally range from 0.5% to 2% of the property value.

The business environment in Burundi is challenging, with the country ranked 166 out of 190 economies in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business (2019). The Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom scored Burundi at 28 points in 2024, highlighting systemic challenges. While efforts are being made to simplify business registration and tax procedures, significant hurdles remain, including fragile infrastructure, limited access to credit, and foreign exchange shortages.

Burundi has a social security system managed by the National Social Security Institute (INSS), providing mandatory pensions for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. The system also includes some coverage for medical needs, such as maternity and child care, and specific diseases. Limited unemployment benefits are available for workers laid off for economic reasons. Social safety net programs like Merankabandi provide cash transfers and support to vulnerable households.

Burundi has a Deposit Guarantee and Resolution Fund (DGRF), managed by the Bank of Burundi, which protects deposits up to BIF 3 million (approximately USD 1,000) per depositor. While the banking system has shown resilience and profitability with low non-performing loans, it faces challenges such as weak supervision, non-adherence to international financial reporting standards, and foreign exchange shortages. Banking penetration remains limited.