Starting Over in Ghana: Relocation Tips for Americans in 2025

A Guide to Embracing New Opportunities in Ghana’s Welcoming Atmosphere

Why Ghana?

Ghana has become one of the most popular relocation destinations for Americans seeking peace, community, and opportunity outside the U.S. and Canada. Since the 2019. Ghana has openly embraced Americans, offering a warm welcome to those seeking to reconnect with their roots, find business opportunities, and live a freer, fuller life.

Ghana, and especially Accra, is vibrant, soulful, and bursting with promise. If you're ready to start over, Ghana might just be your next home.

Financial Considerations (2025 Update)

• Monthly Rent:

  • Accra (Airport Residential, East Legon, Cantonments): $500–$1,500+

  • Kumasi or Cape Coast: $200–$600

• Utilities (water, electricity, waste): $80–$150/month

• Groceries: $200–$300/month

• Transportation (Uber, Bolt, Trotro): $30–$80/month

• Internet: $40–$80/month (Fiber internet options available in urban areas)

• Dining out: $5–$20 per meal

Living comfortably in Accra will cost around $1,500–$2,500/month depending on your lifestyle. In smaller cities like Kumasi or Takoradi, you can live well for $1,000–$1,800/month.

Preparing to Move: Logistics & Planning

1. Downsizing and Selling Homes

• Selling large furniture and belongings is practical—international shipping is costly ($3,500–$8,000+).

• Bring essentials: electronics, documents, sentimental items.

• Shipping: Sea freight for large shipments; air freight for small, critical items.

2. Moving & Storage

• Recommended international movers: AGS Movers Ghana, Suddath, or Move One.

• Temporary storage in Ghana is possible but limited; plan to secure a home before shipping furniture.

3. Travel Costs

• Flights to Accra average $800–$1,200 from North America.

• Book flights 2–4 months ahead, and watch for deals with airlines like Delta, United, and Ethiopian Airlines.

Visa, Residency, and Citizenship (2025 Requirements)

Entry Requirements:

• Tourist Visa: Apply online or at a Ghanaian embassy before arrival.

• Single-entry ($60–$100) or multiple-entry visas are available.

• Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.

Residency and Citizenship Options:

• Ghana Card: Diaspora members can apply for a Ghana Card for easier ID and movement.

• Right of Abode: For African descendants — allows permanent residence.

• Dual Citizenship: Ghana allows dual citizenship after 5 years of residency for some applicants.

Tip: Work with immigration lawyers or agencies specializing in African diaspora relocation for smoother processing.

Best Cities for Expats

1. Accra

• Modern amenities, lively expat community, cultural festivals, nightlife, co-working spaces.

• Best neighborhoods: East Legon, Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, Osu.

2. Kumasi

• Rich Ashanti culture, lower cost of living, slower pace.

• Great for those seeking tradition and a strong sense of history.

3. Cape Coast

• Coastal, peaceful, historical significance (slave castles, diaspora tours).

• Slower life, smaller expat community.

4. Takoradi

• Growing business hub, beaches nearby, smaller-town feel with conveniences.

Housing: Finding a Home

• Short-Term Rentals: Airbnb is popular for temporary housing ($40–$100/night).

• Long-Term Rentals: Use trusted sites like Meqasa.com, Tonaton, or local agents (word-of-mouth referrals are best).

• Rental Tip: Landlords often request 1–2 years of rent upfront — negotiate for quarterly or 6-month payments where possible.

Employment and Entrepreneurship

Employment:

• Sectors hiring expats: NGOs, education, health services, IT, real estate, tourism.

• Sites for job hunting: Jobsinghana.com, Jobberman Ghana, LinkedIn Ghana.

Entrepreneurship:

• Many expats launch businesses (cafes, salons, wellness centers, real estate consulting).

• Business registration is affordable and accessible; you’ll need a TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number).

Remote Work:

• If you work remotely, consider co-working spaces like Impact Hub Accra or Basecamp Initiative.

Transportation

• Trotro: Inexpensive public minivans — chaotic but part of everyday life.

• Uber/Bolt: Widely available in Accra and Kumasi — affordable and safe.

• Car Purchase: Many expats buy used cars for $5,000–$10,000. Local sellers abound.

Setting Up Essentials

Phone and Internet

• SIM Card: MTN (most reliable), Vodafone, AirtelTigo.

• Get a SIM at the airport or major malls; you’ll need your passport.

• Internet bundles start at $10–$30/month for moderate use.

Banking

• Major banks: GCB Bank, Stanbic Bank, Ecobank.

• Mobile money (MTN Mobile Money, Vodafone Cash) is used EVERYWHERE — it’s essential for daily life.

Building Your Community

• Connect with expat and local community groups.

Tip: Ghanaians are friendly, but social networks grow with effort — greet warmly, ask questions, and be present.

Culture: What to Expect

• Languages: English is the official language; Twi and Ga are widely spoken.

• Religion: Predominantly Christian; many churches play a major community role.

• Pace of Life: Slower — patience is necessary.

• Customs: Greetings are important. Respect elders. Modesty is valued in dress outside nightlife spaces.

Safety Tips and Scams to Avoid

• General Safety: Ghana is one of the safer African countries for Americans, but street smarts are still essential.

• Common Scams:

  • Fake property listings — always see the property before any payment.

  • Romance scams — be cautious when dating online.

  • "Helpers" at airports or immigration trying to charge unofficial fees.

• Daily Tips:

  • Use rideshare apps instead of flagging taxis.

  • Don't flash cash or expensive items openly.

  • Have multiple payment methods (mobile money, cash, card).

Your First Week in Ghana: Action Plan

1. Get a SIM card and activate Mobile Money.

2. Secure temporary housing (Airbnb, guesthouses).

3. Register with your embassy (optional, but helpful for emergencies).

4. Start apartment hunting (talk to locals and agents).

5. Open a bank account if staying long-term.

6. Explore neighborhoods and visit markets (Accra Mall, Osu Night Market).

7. Connect with expat and local community groups.

Final Words of Encouragement

Starting over in Ghana means embracing a life that feels more free, more rooted, and more vibrant. It’s a place where you can rebuild on your terms — among people who welcome you with open arms.