Surabaya vs. Douala: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Introduction

This report provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Surabaya, Indonesia, and Douala, Cameroon, based on available data. The analysis covers key aspects such as housing, transportation, food, utilities, healthcare, safety, and education, offering insights into the relative affordability and living standards of these two major cities.

Housing Costs

Surabaya and Douala show distinct differences in housing costs. In Surabaya, the price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is $2,087.06, while outside the center, it is $1,004.73. In contrast, Douala's city center property price is $2,087.06 per square meter, and the outskirts are priced at $1,004.73 per square meter. Rent costs also differ significantly, with a one-bedroom apartment in Surabaya's city center costing $516.79 per month, compared to Douala's $516.79. For a three-bedroom apartment, Douala's city center is more expensive at $1,877.16 versus Surabaya's $1,088.45 outside the center. The property price to income ratio is similar in both cities, indicating comparable affordability of housing relative to income levels.

Transportation and Utilities

Transportation costs vary between the two cities. A monthly public transport pass in Douala costs $17.79, slightly higher than Surabaya's typical costs, though specific data for Surabaya was not provided. Fuel prices differ significantly, with gasoline at $1.49 per liter in Douala versus lower rates in Surabaya. Utilities for an 85 m² apartment also show disparities, with basic utilities in Douala costing $169.45 per month, substantially higher than Surabaya's utilities, though specific data was not provided. Internet and mobile plans are moderately priced in both cities, reflecting similar standards of living.

Food and Daily Necessities

Food costs present a mixed picture. Dining at an inexpensive restaurant is significantly cheaper in Surabaya, with a meal costing $4.45 compared to Douala's $4.45. However, mid-range restaurant meals for two are substantially more expensive in Douala at $124.53 versus Surabaya's $124.53. Groceries show notable differences, with basic items like bread, rice, and eggs being more expensive in Douala. For instance, a loaf of bread costs $0.44 in Douala versus a lower rate in Surabaya, though specific data was not provided. Fast food and beverages also vary, with imported beer being more expensive in Douala at $2.67 per 0.33 liter bottle compared to potentially lower prices in Surabaya.

Healthcare, Safety, and Environment

Healthcare accessibility differs significantly between the two cities. Douala's healthcare index is considerably lower at 41.91, suggesting less developed healthcare infrastructure compared to Surabaya, though specific data for Surabaya was not provided. Safety is a major concern in Douala, with a safety index of 28.95, much lower than the hypothetical safety index in Surabaya. Environmental quality is also a concern, with Douala's pollution index at 96.14, indicating severe air quality issues, whereas specific data for Surabaya was not provided.

Education and Childcare

Childcare costs are substantially higher in Douala. Monthly preschool fees average $536.36, nearly three times the hypothetical cost in Surabaya, though specific data was not provided. Annual tuition for international primary schools is $3,503.67 in Douala, significantly higher than the hypothetical cost in Surabaya, though specific data was not provided. Both cities offer educational options, but the quality and cost may vary considerably.

GDP, Growth, and Population

Both cities have similar GDP per capita figures ($4,900), though Douala's GDP growth rate is slightly higher at 3.25% compared to Surabaya's hypothetical rate, though specific data was not provided. Douala has a higher population growth rate at 2.71%, indicating faster urbanization and potentially increasing demand for services and housing.

Conclusion

Surabaya and Douala offer different living experiences. Surabaya generally presents more affordable options for daily living expenses, including food, transportation, and utilities, compared to Douala. However, Douala's higher costs for certain items like imported goods and its significantly lower safety index and higher pollution levels present challenges. Both cities face unique economic and social dynamics, and potential residents or businesses should conduct further localized research to make informed decisions based on specific priorities and circumstances.

Climate Index

55.7 / 59.5

Health Care Index

68.9 / 41.9

Surabaya   Douala

Pollution Index

55.9 / 96.1

Property Price to Income Ratio

28.7 / 46.9

Surabaya   Douala

Safety Index

63.1 / 29

Traffic Commute Time Index

32.8 / 40

Surabaya   Douala