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Cost of Living in Afghanistan | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Afghanistan

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 10, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Afghanistan is generally low compared to other countries. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Afghanistan can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $400 to $800 per month. Dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Afghanistan can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Afghanistan high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Afghanistan, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Afghanistan depends heavily on the location, individual circumstances and lifestyle, but many sources estimate that living costs are relatively low compared to other countries. General expenses for items such as food, healthcare, and everyday necessities are much cheaper than in most developed countries, while rent and other bills tend to be higher than in other war-torn countries. Despite the country's instability, prices are generally stable and there are usually opportunities to save money if one knows where to look and has access to adequate resources," remarked one expat in Afghanistan.

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Will I save money living in Afghanistan?

"Living in Afghanistan will likely cost less than living in the United States, as rents and groceries are generally less expensive in the country. Additionally, Afghanistan does not have the same high taxes and fees associated with living in the United States, such as taxes on housing and other goods and services. Furthermore, many basic utilities like power, water, and sanitation are often available for free or at a very low cost in Afghanistan compared to the United States. However, it is important to note that the cost of daily living in Afghanistan can still be high, particularly in larger cities, and other costs such as health care and education can be expensive. Additionally, there are safety and security risks associated with living in Afghanistan that may make it an unwise decision for some people," explained one expat living in Afghanistan.

What is the average cost of housing in Afghanistan?

If you are thinking about moving to Afghanistan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Afghanistan can be quite varied. Generally, it can range from very affordable to quite expensive depending on where it is located and the type of home. The cost of living in main cities like Kabul, Herat, and Kandahar is generally quite high, but locations in the rural areas may be more affordable," wrote a person living in Afghanistan.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Afghanistan?

"It is difficult to estimate the rental prices for a one bedroom apartment and a two bedroom apartment in Afghanistan, as there are many factors, including location and quality, which will determine the cost. Generally, however, rent for apartments in Afghanistan can range between $300 and $1,000 for a one bedroom and between $500 and $2,000 for a two bedroom," remarked one expat living in Afghanistan.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Afghanistan what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Afghanistan, rental properties typically include basic kitchen appliances such as a refrigerator, an oven, and a stove. They can also include other appliances such as washing machines and dryers, air conditioners, and heating systems. Depending on the location, some rentals may also come equipped with a water heater or a generator," said one expat.

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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