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Economy Guide in Ghana

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

Economic Overview

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

Comparison data legendCompare:
Country
Continent Avg

Cost of Living Index

0510
Very Affordable

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

0510
Very Poor

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

0510
Very Poor

The Purchasing Power Index is 20.7, indicating low purchasing power for residents compared to New York City.

Tax System

0510
Poor

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

0510
Moderate

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

0510
Moderate

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

0510
Moderate

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)