Income Levels in Abidjan#

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire (CI), is a large city with over 6 million people. The financial situation of people living here varies a lot. Looking at average income gives a general idea, but it’s important to remember that this average includes everyone from low-wage workers to very high earners.

Based on data aggregated from various sources, the estimated average monthly net salary after tax in Abidjan is typically somewhere around 200,000 to 300,000 West African CFA francs (XOF). This figure represents what people earn after taxes are taken out each month.

Income Compared to Cost of Living#

When you compare this average income to the cost of living in Abidjan, you see that for many people, making ends meet can be challenging. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost roughly between 150,000 XOF and 250,000 XOF per month or even more. Rent outside the center is usually less but still a significant part of a typical salary.

Basic costs like food, transport, and utilities add up. For someone earning near the average, a large portion of their income goes towards just covering these essential expenses, leaving little for savings or extras.

The Gap Between Rich and Poor#

Income inequality is noticeable in Abidjan. The average salary figure doesn’t show the big difference between those who earn a lot and those who earn very little. Many people work in informal sectors or low-wage jobs and earn significantly less than the average, often struggling with poverty.

This difference is visible in the city’s neighborhoods. Areas like Plateau (the business district), Cocody, and Riviera are known for being wealthier, while other districts have much lower average incomes and living standards.

Where Wealthy People Live and Their Lifestyle#

Wealthier residents in Abidjan tend to live in upscale districts such as Cocody, including areas like Cocody Ambassades, and parts of Riviera. These neighborhoods feature larger houses, sometimes with gardens or pools, and often have better infrastructure and security.

The lifestyle of the rich in Abidjan often involves living in spacious homes, driving expensive cars, sending children to private international schools, dining at high-end restaurants, and traveling abroad. They have access to better healthcare and other services that are out of reach for the majority of the population.

High-Income Employment Sectors#

The highest incomes in Abidjan are typically found in certain job sectors. These include:

• Finance and Banking: Working for banks and financial institutions often provides competitive salaries.
• Telecommunications: This is a growing sector with well-paying jobs, especially in management and specialized roles.
• Government and International Organizations: Senior positions in government ministries, state-owned enterprises, and international bodies like the UN or World Bank pay well.
• Management in Large Private Companies: Executives and managers in large local or international businesses across various industries earn significantly more than the average wage.
• Specialized Professional Services: Doctors, lawyers, engineers, and consultants with established practices or working for top firms can achieve high incomes.

In summary, while Abidjan has a large population and a significant portion of residents with low incomes, there is also a wealthy class concentrated in specific sectors and areas, enjoying a much higher standard of living compared to the city’s average.