Economy Guide in Fiji
Economic overview, job market trends, income levels, and financial landscape for expats
GDP
$4.94B
Total economic output of the country
HDI
0.73
High human development
Quality of Life
55/100
Good quality of life — above global average
Purchasing Power
27/100
Weak purchasing power — salaries don't stretch far
Cost of Living Index
Fiji offers a very affordable cost of living with a CPI of 35.2. Rent (18.0), groceries (45.1), and restaurant prices (32.3) are significantly lower than in major global cities.
Housing Market
The housing market is affordable with a property price to income ratio of 6.0. The rent index is 18.0, indicating low rental costs. Foreign ownership of residential freehold land within city/town boundaries is restricted, and non-citizen landowners must build a dwelling valued at a minimum of FJD 250,000 (approx. USD 122,500) within two years.
Average Income Levels
Purchasing power in Fiji is below average, with an index of 63.9 compared to NYC. This suggests a lower overall buying capacity for residents.
Tax System
Fiji has a progressive income tax system, with the first FJD 30,000 tax-exempt, then 18% up to FJD 50,000, and 20% above that. The standard VAT rate is 12.5% (effective August 2025). There is no annual property tax, but a 10% capital gains tax applies to property sales.
Business Environment
Fiji's business environment is improving with government initiatives like the Fiji Tech Startup Incentive Scheme and the Fiji Innovation Hub supporting a growing tech ecosystem. However, businesses still face bureaucratic hurdles and slow processing of government approvals.
Social Security
Fiji has a dual public-private healthcare system, with free/subsidized public care for citizens, though quality can be basic. The Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) provides compulsory retirement savings with contributions from both employees and employers. Unemployment assistance is often provided by the government during specific events, and FNPF funds can be accessed for unemployment.
Banking & Financial Safety
Fiji's banking sector is generally stable and sound, with strong supervision by the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF). The RBF regulates and oversees financial institutions and combats money laundering. However, specific, current information on a statutory deposit insurance coverage limit in FJD or USD is not readily available from recent sources.
Deposit Protection: up to $0 USD (see sources)More Insights for your Move to Fiji
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