Lima vs. Lome: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Lima, Peru, and Lome, Togo, present contrasting profiles in terms of cost of living and quality of life, despite both being major urban centers. Lima, with a significantly larger population of approximately 10.3 million, boasts a higher GDP per capita ($2800 USD) compared to Lome's $2800 USD, reflecting a more developed urban economy. However, Lome demonstrates a higher GDP growth rate (6.41%) versus Lima's much lower rate (0.41%), suggesting potentially faster economic expansion in Togo's capital. Lima's population growth rate (0.41%) is considerably lower than Lome's (2.41%), indicating differing demographic trends. The overall Cost of Living Index (COLI) for Lima is 35.22, significantly higher than Lome's COLI, which is derived from regional data points ranging from 33.15 to 187.97. This indicates that Lome is substantially more affordable, particularly concerning groceries, transportation, and utilities, with Lima residents facing much higher expenses.

In terms of quality of life, Lima scores higher on the general Quality of Life Index (91.86) compared to Lome's index, which is inferred from regional data (ranging from 34.96 to 187.97, with the highest being 187.97). However, specific quality metrics differ starkly. Lima performs poorly on safety (Index 29.85), significantly below Lome's safety index (58.61), indicating higher safety concerns in Peru's capital. Healthcare access and quality in Lima (Index 58.8) is slightly better than Lome's (55.56), but both face challenges. Climate comfort is lower in Lome (Index 64.02) compared to Lima's (not directly given, but likely higher due to coastal climate), though Lima suffers from worse air pollution (Index 84.44) than Lome (75.34). Commuting is a major issue in Lima (Index 51.21), while Lome's commute index is much lower (Index 7), suggesting significantly less congestion and travel time pressures.

Real estate costs are vastly different, with Lima being substantially more expensive. A 3-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs $839,610 USD, whereas in Lome, the same accommodation averages $839.61 USD, highlighting an enormous price disparity. Salaries reflect this economic difference; the average net salary in Lima is $642 USD, compared to $267 USD in Lome. While Lima's salaries are higher, the much lower cost of living in Lome means residents there enjoy greater purchasing power parity for many goods and services, particularly housing and daily necessities. Both cities offer relatively limited childcare options, with Lima providing public services and Lome primarily offering international schooling. Overall, Lima presents a higher cost of living and potentially better general quality of life (though with significant safety concerns), while Lome offers a dramatically lower cost of living and potentially faster economic growth, but with challenges in safety and healthcare access.