Cost of Living in Muscat

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Muscat

"The cost of living in Muscat is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of luxury items such as electronics, cars, and clothing can be quite expensive. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can vary depending on the type of activity," said one expat living in Muscat.

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

"I've been living in Muscat for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a place to live that's affordable. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Qurum, Shatti Al Qurum, and Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos might be out of your budget. Instead, consider looking for a place in more affordable areas like Al Khuwair, Ruwi, or Ghubra. You can find a decent one-bedroom apartment in these areas for around $500 to $700 a month.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your transportation costs. Owning a car can be expensive, so you might want to consider using public transportation or sharing a ride with a coworker. If you do decide to buy a car, make sure to choose a fuel-efficient model to save on gas.When it comes to food, eating out can be quite expensive in Muscat, especially in the more upscale restaurants. To save money, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce. You can also find some affordable restaurants and cafes in the more budget-friendly neighborhoods.As for entertainment, you might have to cut back on some of the more expensive activities like going to the cinema or attending concerts. Instead, take advantage of the many free or low-cost activities that Muscat has to offer, like visiting the beautiful beaches, parks, and historical sites.Finally, be prepared to cut back on some of the modern amenities you might be used to. For example, you might have to live without a gym membership or a regular house cleaning service. However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can still maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a budget.Overall, living in Muscat on $1,500 a month is doable, but it will require some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your transportation and food costs, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Muscat.

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

"I've been living in Muscat for a few years 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 and sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a more affordable neighborhood to live in. Some of the more expensive areas like Qurum, Shatti Al Qurum, and Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos might be out of your budget. Instead, consider looking for housing in areas like Al Khuwair, Ruwi, or Ghubrah, which are more affordable and still offer decent amenities.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the high cost of insurance and fuel. I'd recommend using public transportation like buses or shared taxis, which are quite affordable and reliable. Alternatively, you could consider carpooling with colleagues or friends to save on transportation costs.Eating out can also be expensive, especially if you're used to dining at high-end restaurants. To save money, try eating at local eateries or cooking at home more often. There are plenty of supermarkets and local markets where you can find fresh produce and ingredients at reasonable prices.As for entertainment, you might have to cut back on some of your usual activities. Going to the cinema, attending concerts, or visiting high-end bars and clubs can be quite pricey. Instead, look for free or low-cost activities like visiting the beach, exploring local parks, or attending community events.Lastly, keep in mind that the cost of living in Muscat can vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. If you're willing to make some sacrifices and adjust your expectations, you can definitely live comfortably on $3,000 a month. Just be prepared to be more budget-conscious and explore the more affordable options that the city has to offer," said one expat living in Muscat.

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

"I've been living in Muscat for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices in terms of housing and entertainment options. Firstly, you'll want to look for housing in more affordable neighborhoods. Some of the more expensive areas in Muscat, like Shatti Al Qurum and Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, might be out of your budget if you want to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Instead, consider looking for housing in areas like Al Khuwair, Al Ghubrah, or Ruwi. These neighborhoods are still relatively close to the city center and offer a good mix of modern amenities and affordability. In terms of housing, you might have to settle for a smaller apartment or a shared villa, rather than a large standalone villa. This will help you save on rent and utilities, which can be quite expensive in Muscat. Additionally, you might want to consider living a bit further from the city center, as this can also help you save on housing costs.When it comes to transportation, owning a car is almost a necessity in Muscat, as public transportation options are limited. However, you can save on transportation costs by opting for a fuel-efficient vehicle and carpooling with coworkers or friends when possible.As for entertainment and dining out, you might have to be more selective about where you go and how often you indulge. There are plenty of affordable restaurants and cafes in Muscat, but you'll want to avoid the more upscale establishments if you're trying to stick to your budget. Additionally, you might want to limit your visits to high-end shopping malls and entertainment venues, as these can quickly eat into your monthly budget.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Muscat is definitely achievable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and entertainment options. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood and being selective about your leisure activities, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this beautiful city," commented an expat living in Muscat.