Cost of living in Baghdad
Baghdad, the capital city of Iraq, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and cultural significance. Understanding the cost of living in Baghdad is crucial for both residents and expatriates considering a move to this dynamic city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with living in Baghdad, including housing, transportation, dining, and more, to help you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $5.34 on average, with a range between $2.29 and $7.63.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $36.88, with prices ranging from $22.88 to $75.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.63, with a range between $6.1 and $9.15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $1.14 to $5.27, imported beer $1.53 to $4.21, cappuccino $0.76 to $4.21, and Coke/Pepsi $0.38 to $0.76.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1 and $1.53 per liter, averaging $1.36.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.38 and $1.53, with an average price of $0.88.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.2 to $2.4, averaging $1.83.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $0.7 to $1.68 per kg, while oranges range from $0.7 to $1.53 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.38 and $0.76 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.38 to $1 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0.38 and $0.76, with a monthly pass priced between $20 and $45.77.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.34 and $0.57 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $1.53, with a cost of $1.5 to $2.29 per km and $3.81 to $9 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $305.1 to $700, averaging $444.93.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $152.55 to $343.24, averaging $265.05.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $572.06 to $1334.81, averaging $922.06.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $381.38 to $762.75, averaging $541.44.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $1000 to $3813.75, averaging $2573.73.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $762.75 to $1500, averaging $1022.29.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $100 and $200, averaging $148.34.
- Internet - Internet services range from $30 to $45.77, with an average cost of $35.35.
Cost of Living Rankings
Baghdad ranks 2nd on the Cost of Living rankings in Iraq. The cost of living indices for Iraq are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Iraq, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
Markets
Markets
Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Buy Apartment Price
Buy Apartment Price
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Baghdad offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western cities, particularly in terms of housing and dining.
Public transportation and fuel costs are low, making commuting economical.
Grocery prices are generally reasonable, though imported goods may be more expensive.
Utilities and internet services are moderately priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Baghdad.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baghdad presents a cost-effective living environment with affordable housing and transportation options.
While some imported goods and services may be pricier, the overall cost of living remains manageable for most residents.
Prospective residents should consider these factors when planning their move to Baghdad, ensuring they budget accordingly for a comfortable lifestyle.