Cote d’Ivoire officially the Republic of Ivory Coast is located on the western coast of Africa, bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean, Ghana to the east, and Liberia to the west. It boasts diverse landscapes ranging from tropical coastlines to the semi-arid savannahs in the far north.

A Glimpse into History: Côte d’Ivoire, or the Ivory Coast, has a rich cultural history that blends indigenous traditions with French colonial influences. Once a French colony, Cote d’Ivoire gained independence in 1960. Its rich historical tapestry blends African traditions with colonial influences, shaping the nation into a regional powerhouse. Today, the country is a major economic and cultural hub in West Africa. Its history is marked by political struggles, but it has also been a center for regional trade and development.

Geography, Environment, & Climate: Cote d’Ivoire’s diverse geography ranges from coastal lagoons in the south to savannas and forests in the north. The country boasts a well-developed infrastructure and is famous for its cocoa production. The climate varies from humid in Abidjan to drier conditions as you move inland.

The country enjoys a tropical climate along the coast, transitioning to a semiarid environment in the far north. There are three main seasons: warm and dry from November to March, hot and dry from March to May, and hot and wet from June to October. This mix of climates supports a variety of ecosystems and agricultural production.

Population: The country’s population exceeds 31.9 million, with Abidjan—its largest city—home to more than 5.8 million people. The city is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic makeup. French is the official language, though several indigenous languages are also spoken. The population is predominantly Muslim and Christian, with a smaller percentage practicing several indigenous religions.

Currency: Cote d’Ivoire uses the CFA Franc (XOF), which is shared by several West African countries. The exchange rate is stable, and currency exchange is straightforward, with many banks and exchange bureaus available.

Living as an Expat: Housing, Healthcare, and More:

Housing: Abidjan is the economic hub of Cote d’Ivoire. It offers a wide range of housing options from modern apartments to more traditional homes. Housing costs are reasonable compared to many international cities, with utilities like water, electricity, and gas being relatively inexpensive.

Cost of Living: Abidjan is ranked 133 out of 300 global cities for expats in terms of cost of living. While some expenses are higher than in other cities, such as education, healthcare, and communication services, household goods and housing are relatively affordable.

Healthcare: Healthcare services are available, but private healthcare and insurance can be more expensive compared to other cities. Expats are encouraged to secure international health insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Education: There are several international schools in Abidjan, such as the International Community School of Abidjan (English, ages 5-19) and the Morning Glory International School (English, ages 4-18). Education costs can be high, especially for expatriates.

Utilities & Groceries: Costs for everyday goods like groceries, furniture, and household appliances are moderately priced. However, groceries can be on the expensive side, especially for imported items.

Getting There & Around: Abidjan is well-connected through its international airport, offering flights to and from Europe and other regions in West Africa. The city also boasts one of the most modern ports in West Africa. Transport within Abidjan includes taxis, buses, and private car rentals, and the city’s road network is well-developed, allowing easy navigation for expats.