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Remitly vs Western Union at a glance
| Remitly | Western Union | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Sending money home to family | Cash pickup almost anywhere |
| Pricing model | Pay as you go | Pay as you go |
| Available in | Global | Global |
| Key features | Bank, mobile wallet and cash pickup Express and economy options Wide coverage in remittance countries | Huge cash pickup network Send online, in the app or in person Covers very many countries |
| Website | Visit Remitly ↗ | Visit Western Union ↗ |
Pricing
Both use the same pricing model: each charges per transaction or transfer (pay as you go). We never publish exact prices because they change too often; check the current plans on each website.
Where they work
Both are available worldwide, so where you live will not decide it.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose Remitly: the better fit for sending money home to family.
- Choose Western Union: the better fit for cash pickup almost anywhere.
Still unsure? Run through these before you sign up for either:
- The exchange rate compared with the mid-market rate (our fee calculator does this).
- How fast money arrives and how the recipient can collect it.
- Coverage for the countries and currencies you need.
- Whether it is licensed in your country.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Remitly and Western Union?
Remitly is built for sending money home to family. Western Union is built for cash pickup almost anywhere. Both use the same pricing model: each charges per transaction or transfer (pay as you go).
Is Remitly or Western Union available in my country?
Both are available worldwide, so where you live will not decide it.
Is Remitly cheaper than Western Union?
It depends on how you use it, and prices change often, so we only list the pricing model. Both use the same pricing model: each charges per transaction or transfer (pay as you go). Compare the current plans on each website before you sign up.
Not sold on either?
There are 10 other money transfer & multi-currency tools in the directory. Compare them all →
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Information checked 26 October 2026. NxtGenFin is an independent directory, not affiliated with Remitly or Western Union unless marked as featured, sponsored or affiliate link. Not financial advice.