Cost of Living in Aqaba
Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Aqaba helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Apartment Rentals | Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Aqaba is around $400 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $800 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around $300 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around $600 per month. |
Apartment Purchases | The cost of purchasing an apartment in Aqaba varies depending on the size and location. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center range from $50,000 to $100,000. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center range from $100,000 to $200,000. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from $30,000 to $60,000. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from $60,000 to $120,000. |
Transportation | Public transportation in Aqaba is inexpensive and reliable. A one-way ticket on the bus costs around $0.50. Taxis are also available and the cost of a ride within the city is around $5.00. |
Groceries | The cost of groceries in Aqaba is relatively low. A loaf of bread costs around $0.50, a liter of milk costs around $1.00, and a dozen eggs costs around $2.00. |
Restaurants | The cost of eating out in Aqaba is relatively low. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10.00 per person. A meal at a fast food restaurant costs around $5.00 per person. |
Utilities | The cost of utilities in Aqaba is relatively low. The average cost of electricity is around $30.00 per month. The average cost of water is around $10.00 per month. |
Private School Tuition | The cost of private school tuition in Aqaba varies depending on the school and the grade level. Preschool tuition ranges from $500 to $1,000 per year. Elementary school tuition ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Middle school tuition ranges from $2,000 to $3,000 per year. High school tuition ranges from $3,000 to $4,000 per year. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Aqaba
"The cost of living in Aqaba, is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the country. Housing and rental prices are moderate, with a variety of options available for different budgets. The cost of food and groceries is also reasonable, with local markets and supermarkets offering a wide range of products at competitive prices. Transportation costs are low, with affordable public transportation options and reasonably priced taxis. Utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet, are also reasonably priced. However, some imported goods and luxury items may be more expensive due to import taxes and limited availability. Overall, Aqaba offers a comfortable and affordable lifestyle for residents and visitors alike," said one expat living in Aqaba.
Can I live in Aqaba on $1,500 a month?
"I've been living in Aqaba 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. The cost of living in Aqaba is relatively low compared to other cities in Jordan, but it's still higher than some other countries in the region.First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I'd recommend looking for an apartment in neighborhoods like Al-Rahmaniyah, Al-Hussein, or Al-Arish. These areas are more affordable than the more upscale neighborhoods like Tala Bay or Ayla, which can be quite expensive. You should be able to find a decent one or two-bedroom apartment in these areas for around $300 to $500 a month.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your utility bills. Electricity and water can be quite expensive in Aqaba, especially during the hot summer months when you'll be using the air conditioning a lot. To save on these costs, try to use energy-efficient appliances and be conscious of your water usage.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to high fuel prices and maintenance costs. Instead, consider using public transportation or taxis, which are relatively affordable in Aqaba. If you live close to your workplace, you might even be able to walk or bike to save on transportation costs.Eating out can also be a significant expense, especially if you're used to dining at high-end restaurants. To save money, try to cook at home as much as possible and explore the local markets for fresh produce and groceries. When you do eat out, opt for local restaurants and street food, which are usually more affordable than international chains or upscale establishments.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While Aqaba offers a range of activities, some can be quite pricey, such as scuba diving or visiting luxury resorts. Instead, look for more affordable options like visiting the local beaches, exploring the city's historical sites, or enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding desert.In conclusion, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Aqaba is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility usage, using public transportation, cooking at home, and opting for budget-friendly entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Aqaba.
Can I live in Aqaba on $3,500 a month?
"I've been living in Aqaba for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 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 affordable areas in Aqaba include Al-Rawda and Al-Arish, where you can find decent apartments for around $400 to $600 per month. On the other hand, more upscale neighborhoods like Tala Bay and Ayla can be quite expensive, with rents going up to $1,500 or more for a luxury apartment. So, you might want to avoid those areas if you're trying to stick to your budget.As for transportation, owning a car can be quite costly due to high import taxes and fuel prices. Instead, you can rely on public transportation or taxis, which are relatively affordable. A monthly bus pass costs around $30, and taxis are usually around $2 to $5 for a ride within the city.When it comes to groceries and eating out, you'll find that local produce and street food are quite affordable. However, if you prefer imported goods and dining at high-end restaurants, your expenses can add up quickly. So, you might have to adjust your eating habits and opt for more local options to save money.Entertainment and leisure activities can also impact your budget. While there are plenty of free or low-cost activities like visiting the beach or exploring the city, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies like scuba diving or golfing, which can be quite pricey in Aqaba.Lastly, keep in mind that while healthcare in Jordan is generally affordable, it's essential to have health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses. This can add to your monthly costs, so make sure to factor that into your budget.Overall, living in Aqaba on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle to make it work," said one expat living in Aqaba.
Can I live in Aqaba on $5,000 a month?
"I've been living in Aqaba for a while 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 neighborhoods, like Tala Bay and Ayla, might be out of your budget if you're trying to stick to $5,000 a month. These areas are known for their luxury resorts and high-end properties, so the cost of living there can be quite high.On the other hand, there are more affordable neighborhoods in Aqaba that still offer a comfortable lifestyle. For example, you might want to consider living in the Al-Rahmaniyah or Al-Hammamat areas. These neighborhoods are more budget-friendly and still offer access to modern amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.One sacrifice you might have to make is in terms of the size and quality of your living space. While you can still find modern apartments and villas in the more affordable neighborhoods, they might not be as spacious or luxurious as what you'd find in the more expensive areas. However, you can still find comfortable and well-maintained properties within your budget.Another thing to consider is transportation. While Aqaba is a relatively small city, you might need to rely on taxis or public transportation if you choose to live in a more affordable neighborhood. Owning a car can be quite expensive in Jordan, so it's something you'll want to factor into your budget if you decide to purchase one.In terms of entertainment and dining out, you'll find that there are plenty of options in Aqaba that cater to different budgets. While you might not be able to dine at the most upscale restaurants every night, there are plenty of more affordable options that still offer delicious food and a great atmosphere.Overall, I think it's definitely possible to live comfortably in Aqaba on $5,000 a month, as long as you're willing to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood and being conscious of your expenses, you can still enjoy a great quality of life in this beautiful city," commented an expat living in Aqaba.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.