Last Updated on February 22, 2023
Which is the safest country in Africa to live in? Which country has the best standard of living in Africa? Which African country is the best to make money? Where is the cheapest place to live in Africa? What is the best African country to live and work in?
The thought of living in another country is definitely exciting but it raises some important points to consider. When looking for the perfect place for relocation, you can consider living costs, nearby attractions, access to transportation, job opportunities, salary/wages, security, crime rates, and the list goes on and on. That said, this list includes some of the best countries in Africa to live and work in.
There have been many misconceptions and stereotypes about the African continent. The strongest of which portrays Africa as an underdeveloped village, where the only things exotic are its wild animals.
Although it is true that Africa is home to the best safaris and game reserves that oversee a multitude of unique animals, it is not the only thing that is present on the continent.
In recent years, people from the Diaspora (the Americas, Europe, etc) have come to realize that, with 54 countries, Africa is culturally and linguistically diverse. And this diversity means that there is a place for every kind of person to settle on the continent.
We take a look at the best countries to live and work in Africa, according to their love for culture, cost of living, job security, and all-around quality of life.
Table of Contents
Best African Countries to Live and Work
Here are the best countries to live and work in Africa;
1. Mauritius
The island of Mauritius is one of the safest, cleanest nations in Africa, with one of the highest-earning potentials due to its competitive and active economy. French and English speakers will both find it easy to settle in and find work here, as these are widely spoken in Mauritius (along with Creole). What’s more, Mauritians are reportedly friendly and welcoming, and expats will find many social and outdoor activities to do here. Another draw of Mauritius is its beautiful and diverse wildlife, stunning beaches, and tropical climate, making for an enjoyable lifestyle.
2. Kenya
A welcoming country rich in diverse wildlife and natural beauty, Kenya is attractive to both tourists and foreign expats. The country has reasonably developed infrastructure and affordable housing and is relatively safe to live in. Its capital, Nairobi, is a buzzing cosmopolitan and multicultural hub with good nightlife and many activities available, as well as a large expat community.
English and Swahili are both the official languages of Kenya, and there are decent healthcare and excellent private schooling options in the country.
3. Namibia
With a wealth of minerals and an excellent human rights record, Namibia is an exemplary democratic country that is safe and peaceful for foreigners and locals alike and offers quality healthcare services. It is among the countries with the highest average salaries in Africa and the 10th richest nation on the continent, however, the cost of living in Namibia is high as most consumables are imported.
The capital, Windhoek, is small but charming, with a lively expat community and many social activities. To add to that, the country is famed for its beautiful desert landscapes, which are another attraction for foreigners.
4. Tanzania
Tanzania is among the nations with the highest average salaries in Africa and is home to a large expat community, making it easy for foreigners to quickly settle in. Tanzania’s capital Dar es Salaam is where most expatriates choose to live. Tanzania is fairly safe to live in and has many job opportunities for foreign professionals. The country is also popular among tourists and foreign expats due to its beautiful national parks filled with diverse wildlife and Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa.
5. South Africa
A country rich in culture, history, wildlife, and natural beauty, South Africa is not just a popular tourist destination but a common choice for foreigners relocating and has many job opportunities and high earning potential for professional African and overseas expatriates. The nation has embraced industrialization and has a highly developed infrastructure and finance and tech industry especially compared to other African countries, a very attractive aspect of living there.
Although the country has safety issues, many foreigners live relatively safely. It is important to note, however, that xenophobia directed mainly at foreign African nationals is a continuing problem in certain suburbs and neighbourhoods in South Africa and this is something to consider when looking to relocate to, or deciding where to live in, the country.
6. Botswana
One of the most stable and safest countries in Africa, Botswana is a great choice for expatriates looking to live and work in Africa. English is widely spoken, making it easy for many foreigners to move around and work in, and the local population is peaceful and welcoming.
The country is also rated as a top tourist destination, and with its wildlife, beautiful places of nature, and temperate climate, Botswana is a pleasant country to live in.
Life in Botswana is affordable and foreign professionals will find many jobs with decent pay.
7. Ghana
An exceptionally well-managed country, especially compared to most African nations, Ghana is safe to live in and accommodating of foreigners. It succeeds in being a prime example of democracy and the official language is English, making it easy for many foreign nationals to work. Establishing a business in Ghana is known to be relatively pain-free as well.
Those who move to Ghana will be greeted by a welcoming and friendly population, a fair climate, and abundant natural beauty.
8. Algeria
Algeria has the highest life expectancy of all countries in Africa as well as the highest average salary on the continent: around $1,713 after tax. The oil-rich country has a high human development index and a promising economy. It is a great place for expats to work in and raise children, although it is not the safest nation on the continent.