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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Amman 2024
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The Roman Theatre in Amman, Jordan


Cost of Living in Amman

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Summary: If you're moving to Amman, understanding the the cost of living in Amman helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Apartment Rentals The average cost of renting an apartment in Amman is around $500 to $1,000 per month, depending on the size and location of the apartment. Furnished apartments tend to be more expensive than unfurnished ones.
Apartment Purchases The average cost of purchasing an apartment in Amman is around $1,000 to $2,000 per square meter. The cost of purchasing an apartment in Amman can vary greatly depending on the size, location, and quality of the apartment.
Transportation The cost of transportation in Amman is relatively inexpensive. A one-way bus ticket costs around $0.50, while a taxi ride costs around $2.50. The cost of owning a car in Amman is relatively high, as the cost of fuel is expensive.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Amman is relatively inexpensive. A loaf of bread costs around $0.50, while a liter of milk costs around $1.50. The cost of fruits and vegetables varies depending on the season.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Amman is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a local restaurant costs around $5 to $10, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant costs around $15 to $20.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Amman is relatively inexpensive. The average cost of electricity is around $0.15 per kilowatt-hour, while the average cost of water is around $0.50 per cubic meter.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Amman varies depending on the school. The average cost of preschool tuition is around $1,000 to $2,000 per year, while the average cost of elementary school tuition is around $2,000 to $3,000 per year. The average cost of middle school tuition is around $3,000 to $4,000 per year, while the average cost of high school tuition is around $4,000 to $5,000 per year.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Amman

"The cost of living in Amman, is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Housing costs, such as rent and utilities, are generally lower than in major cities in Europe or North America. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the neighborhood and the type of accommodation.Groceries and food prices in Amman are also relatively affordable, with local markets offering fresh produce at reasonable prices. However, imported goods and dining out at restaurants can be more expensive.Transportation costs in Amman are quite low, with affordable public transportation options such as buses and taxis. Owning a car can be more expensive due to the high cost of fuel and vehicle registration fees.Healthcare in Amman is generally affordable, with both public and private healthcare options available. However, the quality of care can vary, and expats may prefer to use private healthcare facilities, which can be more expensive.Education costs in Amman can vary significantly depending on the type of school. Public schools are generally more affordable, while private and international schools can be quite expensive.Overall, the cost of living in Amman is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and locals alike. However, it's essential to consider individual lifestyle preferences and budget when determining the overall cost of living in the city," said one expat living in Amman.

Can I live in Amman on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Amman for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find an affordable neighborhood to live in. Some of the more affordable areas in Amman are Al-Weibdeh, Jabal Al-Hussein, and Tlaa Al-Ali. These neighborhoods are not as fancy as the more expensive areas like Abdoun, Dabouq, or Sweifieh, but they're still safe and have a decent quality of life.Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in an affordable neighborhood will likely cost you around $300 to $400 a month. If you're willing to share an apartment with roommates, you can save even more on rent. Utilities, including water, electricity, and internet, will probably cost you around $100 to $150 a month.When it comes to transportation, you can save money by using public transportation like buses and shared taxis, which are called "servees." A monthly transportation pass costs around $30. If you prefer to drive, keep in mind that gas prices in Jordan are relatively high, and owning a car can be expensive.For groceries, you can expect to spend around $200 to $300 a month if you shop at local markets and cook most of your meals at home. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to local restaurants and street food, but if you prefer dining at fancier places, your food budget will increase significantly.Entertainment and leisure activities can also be affordable if you're willing to make some sacrifices. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to do in Amman, like visiting historical sites, going for hikes, or attending cultural events. However, if you're used to going out to bars, clubs, or attending concerts and other high-end events, you'll need to cut back on those to stay within your budget.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Amman is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, cutting back on dining out and entertainment, and using public transportation, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Amman.

Can I live in Amman on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Amman for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. First, you'll need to find a more affordable neighborhood to live in. Some of the more expensive areas like Abdoun, Deir Ghbar, and Al-Rabieh might be out of your budget, but there are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life at a lower cost. I'd recommend looking into areas like Khalda, Sweifieh, or Al-Weibdeh. These neighborhoods are still relatively close to the city center and have a good mix of locals and expats.When it comes to housing, you'll probably have to settle for a smaller apartment or share a place with roommates to save on rent. Utilities can also be quite expensive, especially during the summer months when you'll be using the air conditioning a lot. To save on electricity, try to use energy-efficient appliances and be mindful of your consumption.Transportation can be another significant expense, especially if you're used to having your own car. While public transportation in Amman is not the most reliable, it's still an affordable option. You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem, which are quite popular and reasonably priced. If you do decide to get a car, be prepared for high fuel costs and traffic congestion.Eating out can be quite affordable in Amman, especially if you stick to local restaurants and street food. However, if you're used to dining at high-end restaurants or frequenting bars and clubs, you'll need to cut back on those activities to stay within your budget. Groceries can also be relatively expensive, especially for imported products, so try to shop at local markets and buy seasonal produce to save money.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Amman. You can visit historical sites, museums, and art galleries, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the surrounding nature. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies like golf or attending concerts and events.Overall, living in Amman on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility consumption, and finding cost-effective ways to enjoy your leisure time, you can live comfortably in this fascinating city," said one expat living in Amman.

Can I live in Amman on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Amman for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to consider the neighborhood you choose to live in. Some of the more expensive areas, like Abdoun and Dabouq, might be out of your budget if you're looking to save money. These areas are known for their luxurious villas and high-end apartments, so the cost of living there can be quite high. Instead, I'd recommend looking into more affordable neighborhoods like Sweifieh, Jabal Amman, or Shmeisani. These areas still offer modern amenities and a comfortable lifestyle, but at a more reasonable price.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive in Amman due to high import taxes and fuel prices. Instead, I'd recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem. They're quite affordable and can help you save a significant amount of money on transportation costs.Eating out can also be a bit pricey, especially if you're dining at high-end restaurants or international chains. However, there are plenty of local eateries and street food options that offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost. I've found that cooking at home and occasionally eating out at more affordable places has helped me stay within my budget.Another thing to consider is your entertainment and leisure activities. While there are plenty of things to do in Amman, some activities can be quite expensive, like going to high-end bars or clubs. Instead, I'd recommend exploring the city's many cultural and historical sites, like the Roman Theatre or the Citadel, which are either free or have a minimal entrance fee. There are also plenty of parks and outdoor spaces where you can enjoy a picnic or a walk without spending much money.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Amman is definitely achievable, but it does require some careful budgeting and a willingness to make a few sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, eating at local eateries, and enjoying low-cost leisure activities, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while staying within your budget," commented an expat living in Amman.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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