Dakar's high cost of living compared to Paris highlighted in viral video

The video, which has gained renewed traction on TikTok and X amid a general price increase in Senegal, including fuel, compares prices of common consumer goods. For instance, a kilogram of chicken costs 2,610 F CFA in Senegal, while the equivalent is 2,300 F CFA in France. "Elle & Vire" butter is 2,990 F CFA in Dakar versus 1,990 F CFA in Paris.

Cooking oil, a staple in Senegal, is priced at 6,990 F CFA compared to 6,000 F CFA in France. The disparity is even more pronounced for non-essential items, such as a packet of Chocapic cereal, which costs 5,250 F CFA in Senegal but 1,990 F CFA in France, and Soupline fabric softener, at 9,990 F CFA in Dakar against 5,600 F CFA in Paris. These price differences have surprised many Senegalese internet users.

Beyond consumer products, the high cost of living in Dakar also extends to housing and fuel, with the government recently increasing prices. According to a 2024 ranking by Countryeconomy, as reported by Jeune Afrique, Senegal is the second most expensive country to live in Africa, after Côte d'Ivoire.