Economy Guide in Ghana
Economic overview, job market trends, income levels, and financial landscape for expats
GDP
$79.16B
Total economic output of the country
HDI
0.63
Medium human development
Quality of Life
22/100
Low quality of life — significant challenges
Purchasing Power
9/100
Very weak purchasing power — limited buying capacity
Cost of Living Index
The Cost of Living Index (CPI) is 33.5, indicating very affordable living costs compared to New York City. Groceries (index: 37.5) and restaurant prices (index: 34.0) are also very low.
Housing Market
The Property Price to Income Ratio is 53.5 years, indicating a very expensive housing market relative to income. The Rent Index is 10.3, suggesting very low rental costs compared to New York City.
Average Income Levels
The Purchasing Power Index is 20.7, indicating low purchasing power for residents compared to New York City.
Tax System
Ghana operates a progressive income tax system for residents, with rates up to 35% (effective January 2024). Non-residents face a flat 25%. The standard VAT is 15%, plus a 2.5% National Health Insurance Levy and 2.5% Ghana Education Trust Fund Levy (total 20%). Property taxes range from 0.5% to 3% of assessed value, varying by district.
Business Environment
Ghana's startup ecosystem is vibrant and growing, ranking #81 globally in 2025 and 3rd in West Africa. It features over 100 tech hubs and accelerators, with government support through initiatives like the Ghana Startup Act. Challenges include limited late-stage funding and regulatory hurdles.
Social Security
Ghana operates a three-tier Social Security Scheme (SSNIT) providing retirement, invalidity, and survivors' benefits. The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) offers public healthcare, though quality varies, with private facilities often preferred by expats. The government aims for universal health coverage by 2030.
Banking & Financial Safety
Deposits are protected up to GHC 6,250 (approximately USD 558) per depositor for banks, and GHC 1,250 for Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions, under the statutory Ghana Deposit Protection Scheme (GDPC). The banking sector shows improved stability and strong regulatory oversight by the Bank of Ghana, which has implemented new guidelines to strengthen financial stability and align with FATF recommendations.
Deposit Protection: up to $558 USD (see sources)More Insights for your Move to Ghana
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