Khartoum vs. Addis Ababa: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Introduction

This report provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Khartoum, Sudan, and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, based on available data. Both cities are significant economic and political hubs in their respective countries, but they differ substantially in terms of economic indicators, living expenses, and environmental factors. The analysis covers key aspects such as population, GDP, safety, climate, housing affordability, transportation, utilities, and childcare, all presented in USD to ensure comparability. ---

Economic Overview and Salaries

Khartoum has a population of approximately 7.87 million, while Addis Ababa is home to about 5.7 million people. In terms of economic output, Khartoum has a GDP per capita of $2,500, compared to Addis Ababa's $2,800. However, Khartoum demonstrates a higher GDP growth rate at 20.11%, while Addis Ababa's growth is more modest at 6.5%. The average monthly net salary after taxes is $189.92 in Khartoum, slightly lower than Addis Ababa's $196.00. This difference in income levels may influence the affordability of goods and services in each city. ---

Cost of Living and Housing Affordability

The cost of living in Khartoum is generally lower than in Addis Ababa, particularly concerning housing and daily expenses. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Khartoum costs approximately $245.30 per square meter to buy, compared to Addis Ababa's $185.48 per square meter. Outside the city center, Khartoum's property prices are also lower ($118.87 vs. $1,188.69 per square meter). The property-to-income ratio in Khartoum is 69.3, significantly higher than Addis Ababa's 38.82, indicating that housing is less affordable relative to income in Khartoum. Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Khartoum's city center is $245.30, while in Addis Ababa, it is $395.12. Rent outside the city center is lower in both cities, but the difference is more pronounced in Addis Ababa ($223.00 vs. $169.00). Additionally, Khartoum has a lower mortgage interest rate (30%) compared to Addis Ababa (18.5%), making homeownership potentially more accessible in Khartoum despite the higher property-to-income ratio. ---

Transportation and Utilities

Public transportation is cheaper in Khartoum. A one-way ticket costs $0.26, compared to $0.42 in Addis Ababa. However, Addis Ababa offers a monthly public transport pass for $10.00, which may be more cost-effective for frequent users. Taxi fares are also lower in Khartoum, with a start fee of $0.42 versus $1.42 in Addis Ababa, and a per-kilometer rate of $0.28 compared to $0.58. Utilities for an 85m² apartment are significantly more expensive in Addis Ababa. Monthly utility costs in Khartoum are approximately $95.00, while in Addis Ababa, they reach $279.00. This difference is largely driven by higher electricity and internet costs in Addis Ababa. ---

Childcare and Quality of Life

Childcare costs differ substantially between the two cities. In Khartoum, a private preschool costs $45.00 per month, while in Addis Ababa, it is $130.36. International primary school tuition is also higher in Addis Ababa ($30,187.50 annually) compared to Khartoum ($15,000 annually, though specific data is not provided). In terms of quality of life, Khartoum scores slightly higher on safety (index of 59.67) compared to Addis Ababa (50.44). However, Addis Ababa boasts a much higher climate quality of life index (92.63), reflecting a more favorable climate. Khartoum's climate index is significantly lower at 32.95, indicating harsher weather conditions that may affect daily life and well-being. ---

Conclusion

Khartoum offers a lower cost of living, particularly in housing and transportation, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. However, the harsher climate and lower safety index may be drawbacks for some. Addis Ababa, while more expensive, provides a higher quality of life in terms of climate, safety, and overall stability. The choice between the two cities depends on individual priorities, whether they lean toward lower expenses or a higher quality of life.

Climate Index

33 / 96.8

Cost of Living Index

29.7 / 40.8

Khartoum   Addis Ababa

Health Care Index

52.5 / 51.5

Pollution Index

76 / 75.2

Khartoum   Addis Ababa

Property Price to Income Ratio

43.3 / 38.8

Purchasing Power Index

19.5 / 12.7

Khartoum   Addis Ababa

Quality of Life Index

53.6 / 55.2

Safety Index

59.7 / 50.4

Khartoum   Addis Ababa

Traffic Commute Time Index

38.3 / 70

Khartoum   Addis Ababa