Moderate costs (CPI: 50.8). Groceries (47.9) and restaurants (37.0) are relatively affordable compared to major international cities.

Property prices are very high relative to income, with a ratio of 40.9 years. The rental market (index: 19.7) is more affordable but still reflects high costs.

Purchasing power is low, with an index of 21.9, indicating significantly less buying power compared to NYC.

The personal income tax system is progressive, with rates ranging from 1% to 40%. The standard VAT rate is 18.9% (including a 5% surtax). Property taxes are levied by local governments, typically 1-3% of market rent equivalent.

The Republic of the Congo ranks very low in ease of doing business (180 out of 190 economies in 2020). Significant challenges include corruption, lack of transparency, and government inefficiency.

The social security system is a social insurance model covering formal sector employees, providing pensions and partial healthcare coverage. However, the public healthcare system faces significant challenges, and there are no statutory unemployment benefits.

Deposits are protected up to 10 million Central African CFA francs (approximately USD 17,700) per depositor per institution under the FOGADAC scheme, common to CEMAC countries. The banking sector has undergone reforms, and the country is not currently on the FATF grey list.