Namibia flagEconomy Guide · Namibia

Economy Guide in Namibia

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

Economic Overview

GDP

$12.61B

Total economic output of the country

HDI

0.61

Medium human development

Quality of Life

67/100

Good quality of life — above global average

Purchasing Power

31/100

Weak purchasing power — salaries don't stretch far

Comparison data legendCompare:
Country
Continent Avg

Cost of Living Index

0510
Very Affordable

Namibia offers a very affordable cost of living, with a Cost of Living Index of 36.8 (NYC=100). Groceries (38.1) and restaurant prices (32.4) are particularly low.

Housing Market

0510
Excellent

The housing market in Namibia is very affordable, with a Property Price to Income Ratio of 3.4 years. The Rent Index is also low at 14.4 (NYC=100).

Average Income Levels

0510
Poor

The Purchasing Power Index of 74.1 (NYC=100) indicates below-average buying power for residents.

Tax System

0510
Moderate

Namibia has a progressive income tax system with rates up to 37%, and an increased tax-exempt threshold of N$100,000 as of March 2024. The standard VAT rate is 15%.

Business Environment

0510
Moderate

Namibia's startup ecosystem is ranked #85 globally and #2 in Southern Africa. While facing challenges like bureaucracy and funding, government initiatives are fostering growth and innovation.

Social Security

0510
Good

Namibia provides a universal, non-contributory pension for citizens over 60. The healthcare system is mixed, with private facilities offering good quality in urban areas, while public healthcare faces resource challenges.

Banking & Financial Safety

0510
Moderate

Deposits are protected up to N$50,000 (approx. USD 3,000) per depositor per institution by the Namibia Deposit Guarantee Authority (NDGA), covering over 90% of depositors. The Bank of Namibia provides regulatory oversight.

Deposit Protection: up to $3,000 USD (see sources)