Democratic Republic of the Congo🇨🇩

At a Glance

How Democratic Republic of the Congo compares across key indices

Quality of Life46Safety32Healthcare25Affordability50Climate81Clean Air83

Cost of Living

50 vs NYC

100 = NYC

Safety Index

32/100

Healthcare

25/100

Quality of Life

46/200

Climate

81/100

Cost of Living

How far your money goes in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Cost of Living

50

100 = NYC baseline

Rent Index

31

100 = NYC rent

Groceries

49

100 = NYC groceries

Restaurant Prices

62

100 = NYC dining

Safety & Crime

Higher Risk

How safe residents feel in Democratic Republic of the Congo — based on surveys of people living there

Safety Index

32/100

Crime Index

68/100

Lower is better

Crime Trend

69/100

Crime perceived as increasing

Walking Safety

Daytime45
Nighttime21

24 point drop from day to night

Problem Severity

Corruption & bribery
Very High84
Property crimes
High73
Violent crimes
High70
Drug-related crime
Moderate57

0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem

What Residents Worry About

Being mugged or robbed
High72
Things stolen from car
High69
Home broken into
High65
Being physically attacked
High63
Being insulted or harassed
Moderate60
Car stolen
Moderate55
Targeted for skin/ethnicity/religion
Low42

Based on 44 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.

Cities

City Data Coming Soon

We're gathering city-level data for Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Freedom Abroad Newsletter

Insider knowledge on living abroad, new city guides, and cost updates.

Healthcare

Healthcare system overview for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Healthcare Index

25/100

Quality Breakdown

Friendliness & Courtesy34/100
Staff Skill & Competency28/100
Speed of Service28/100
Accuracy & Completeness25/100
Responsiveness & Waitlist22/100
Modern Equipment16/100
Cost Satisfaction22/100

How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality

Based on 8 survey responses

Insurance Coverage

None
50.0%
Public
50.0%
Healthcare25Safety32Quality of Life46
Expat InsuranceRecommended Partner

Don't skip health insurance

Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.

A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR

Environment

Polluted

Air quality, water, and environmental conditions in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Pollution Index

83/100

Lower is better

Environmental Quality

Air Quality38/100
Comfortable to Spend Time33/100
Green Spaces & Parks25/100
Drinking Water Quality21/100
Clean & Tidy13/100
Garbage Disposal10/100

Concerns

Water Pollution88/100
Noise & Light Pollution50/100

0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern

Based on 6 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.

Transport & Commute

How people get around in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Average One-Way Commute

75minutes

Very Long

Traffic Index

444

Heavy congestion

Inefficiency

578

Time wasted in traffic

CO2 Emissions

19.9kg/trip

How People Commute

Car100.0%

Based on 2 survey responses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living in Democratic Republic of the Congo, answered with data

What is the cost of living in Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Democratic Republic of the Congo has a cost of living index of 50 relative to New York City (100). It is moderately affordable compared to the US.

Is Democratic Republic of the Congo safe for expats?

Democratic Republic of the Congo has a safety index of 32/100, making it worth researching carefully before committing for expats and travellers.

How good is healthcare in Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Democratic Republic of the Congo scores 25/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it limited in some areas by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.

Is Democratic Republic of the Congo cheaper than the United States?

Yes. Democratic Republic of the Congo's cost of living is roughly 50% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 69% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.

What is the air quality and pollution like in Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Democratic Republic of the Congo has a pollution index of 83/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.

Before You Go

Your pre-departure checklist for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Expat InsuranceRecommended Partner

Don't skip health insurance

Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.

A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR

Set Up International Banking

Get a multi-currency account before you leave. Essential for managing money abroad.

Get Connected

eSIM, VPN, and reliable internet — sorted before you land.

Book Your First Accommodation

Secure at least your first week. Having a home base makes everything else easier.

Find Flights

Find the cheapest flights with flexible date search. Set alerts for price drops on your route.

Flight Deals

Freedom Abroad helps you figure out the part nobody talks about: how to actually build a life in another country. Films, tools, and data. No fluff.

Learn about our mission