The Cost of Living in Kumasi: An Overview

Kumasi, located in the Ashanti region of Ghana, is known for its rich history, culture, and trade. Often referred to as the “Garden City,” Kumasi is one of the largest cities in Ghana, with a population of over two million people. Many people are attracted to the city for its vibrant markets, lush greenery, and affordable cost of living.In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the cost of living in Kumasi, including the costs of housing, transportation, food, and entertainment.

Housing Costs

One of the biggest expenses in Kumasi is housing. The cost of housing depends on various factors such as location, size, and amenities. If you are looking for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, expect to pay around GHS 800 to GHS 1,200 per month. On the other hand, a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center will cost you between GHS 400 to GHS 800 per month.If you are looking to purchase property in Kumasi, the cost for a standard three-bedroom house in a decent neighborhood is around GHS 500,000 to GHS 1 million. However, there are also more affordable options available, with prices ranging from GHS 100,000 to GHS 300,000.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Kumasi is relatively affordable. The most popular mode of transportation is by shared taxis, which cost around GHS 2 to GHS 5 for short distances within the city. If you prefer to travel by bus, prices start at GHS 1 for short distances.If you want to own a car, be prepared to pay between GHS 15,000 to GHS 50,000 for a new car, depending on the make and model. Alternatively, you can buy a second-hand car for as little as GHS 5,000.

Food Costs

One of the most fantastic things about living in Kumasi is the affordable cost of food. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost you between GHS 8 to GHS 15. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back around GHS 80 to GHS 120.If you prefer to cook at home, food prices at the markets are generally low. A kilogram of fresh chicken will cost around GHS 20 to GHS 30, while a dozen eggs will cost you around GHS 10.

Entertainment Costs

When it comes to entertainment, Kumasi has plenty of options to choose from, and most of them are relatively affordable. A movie ticket costs around GHS 15 to GHS 20, while a fitness club membership will cost you around GHS 100 to GHS 200 per month.If you enjoy going out, drinks at a local bar will cost you between GHS 10 to GHS 20, depending on the bar’s location.

Conclusion

Kumasi offers an affordable cost of living compared to other African cities. Housing, transportation, food, and entertainment are all relatively affordable, making Kumasi an excellent destination for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable African city to live in.However, it is essential to bear in mind the varying costs depending on your preferences and lifestyle. Always ensure that you do thorough research and consider your passions to come up with a realistic and workable budget.

The Insider’s Guide to Kumasi

Kumasi is the capital of the Ashanti region in Ghana. It is a bustling city with a population of over two million people. This city offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and culture. Kumasi is known as the cultural hub of Ghana and it is second only to Accra in terms of economic importance.

Local Attractions in Kumasi

Kumasi offers visitors a plethora of attractions and places to explore. The premier attraction in the city is the Manhyia Palace Museum. This museum was once the residence of the Ashanti King until 1974. It now serves as a museum where visitors can explore the history of the Ashanti people and their kingdom. Another popular attraction in Kumasi is the Kejetia Market. This market is the largest open-air market in West Africa and it offers visitors the opportunity to shop for traditional Ghanaian goods such as cloth, jewelry, and food. The Kumasi Fort and Military Museum, Kumasi Cultural Centre, and Kumasi Zoo are also worth visiting.

Dining Spots in Kumasi

Kumasi has a vibrant food scene with plenty of options for visitors to try. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. For an authentic local experience, visitors can try the popular Ghanaian dish fufu. Fufu is made from cassava and plantain and is usually served with soup or stew. Another popular local dish is banku, which is made from corn and cassava dough. Visitors can also try jollof rice, a delicious spicy rice dish that is popular across West Africa. Some popular dining spots in Kumasi include Joes Pizza, Bush Canteen, and Asanka Local.

Cultural experiences in Kumasi

Kumasi is the cultural hub of Ghana, and visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage by immersing themselves in local customs and traditions. Visitors can experience traditional Ashanti music, dance, and drama performances at the Kumasi Cultural Centre. They can also visit the Adinkra Cloth Printing Centre to learn about the traditional art of Adinkra fabric printing. Another unique cultural experience is the Ashanti Craft Village. Here, visitors can watch locals create traditional crafts such as kente cloth, pottery, and wooden carvings.

Local History in Kumasi

Kumasi is steeped in history, and visitors can explore the city’s rich past by visiting the various historical sites in the city. The Manhyia Palace Museum is a great place to learn about the Ashanti Kingdom and its rulers. The Kumasi Fort and Military Museum is another attraction for history buffs, which showcases Ghana’s military history from colonial through to post-independence times. The Prempeh II Jubilee Museum also offers a glimpse of the Ashanti Kingdom and the history of Ghana.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Kumasi

For those looking for a more unique experience, there are a few off-the-beaten-path attractions to explore in Kumasi. The Lake Bosumtwe, located just outside the city, is a beautiful crater lake surrounded by lush forest. Visitors can swim, fish, or go on a hike around the lake. Another unique attraction is the Bonwire Kente Weaving Village. Here, visitors can watch locals weave beautiful kente cloth using traditional techniques. The Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary is another hidden gem – it offers visitors the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat, go on scenic hikes and bird watch.

The Cost of Living in Kumasi

Kumasi is known for being more affordable than the capital city of Accra and this holds true for living expenses. Accommodation can range from $15 – $100 depending on the level of comfort you are looking for. Getting around the city in a taxi or a bus costs between $0.50 – $1.5. Food is very affordable – one can have a good meal for less than $3 and street food is even cheaper. If you are looking to buy souvenirs, you can always bargain for a good price at Kejetia market.

Conclusion

Kumasi is a city that offers a myriad of attractions and experiences for those willing to explore. From its history to its culture and delicious food, there is something to suit everyone’s interests. Kumasi is a must-visit destination in Ghana, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world.