Cost of living in Bishkek
Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern living. Understanding the cost of living in Bishkek is crucial for anyone considering moving to or visiting the city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including housing, dining, transportation, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $5.78 on average, with a range between $4.05 and $9.25.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $17.92, with prices ranging from $15.03 to $34.68.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $5.66, with a range between $5.2 and $5.78.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $0.81 to $3.18, imported beer $1.16 to $3.47, cappuccino $1.16 to $2.89, and Coke/Pepsi $0.35 to $1.16.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.68 and $1.16 per liter, averaging $0.87.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.29 and $0.86, with an average price of $0.49.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.39 to $1.94, averaging $1.75.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $0.58 to $1.39 per kg, while oranges range from $1.39 to $2.66 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.35 and $0.69 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.29 to $0.69 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0.17 and $0.23, with a monthly pass priced between $3.47 and $11.79.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.64 and $0.83 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $1.14, with a cost of $0.17 to $0.38 per km and $2.08 to $5.78 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $346.82 to $635.84, averaging $468.18.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $265.9 to $462.43, averaging $348.4.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $635.84 to $1156.07, averaging $849.74.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $462.43 to $751.45, averaging $572.86.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $1017.34 to $1500, averaging $1201.59.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $520.23 to $1156.07, averaging $842.94.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $13.87 and $54.05, averaging $28.71.
- Internet - Internet services range from $9.94 to $15.03, with an average cost of $11.89.
Cost of Living Rankings
Bishkek ranks 1st on the Cost of Living rankings in Kyrgyzstan. The cost of living indices for Kyrgyzstan 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 Kyrgyzstan, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
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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"
Bishkek offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other cities, making it an attractive option for expatriates and locals alike.
Housing is affordable, especially outside the city centre, and public transportation is inexpensive.
Dining out is budget-friendly, with a variety of options available at different price points.
Utilities and internet services are reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Bishkek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bishkek presents a cost-effective living environment with affordable housing, dining, and transportation options.
The city's low cost of living makes it an appealing destination for those looking to experience life in Kyrgyzstan without breaking the bank.
Whether you're planning a short visit or a long-term stay, understanding these costs will help you manage your budget effectively.