Cost of Living in Iraq
for Expats 2026

Baghdad's Green Zone and surrounding expat-friendly neighborhoods offer furnished 1-bedroom apartments at $350–$700/month; unfurnished units run $200–$400/month for modest accommodations. The Kurdistan Region, particularly Erbil, has emerged as the primary expat hub with better infrastructure and security; 1BR furnished apartments average $450–$800/month. Sulaymaniyah offers 20% lower rates. Long-term furnished villas with courtyards (favored by families) range $600–$1,200/month in both regions. Expat housing compounds provide security and Western amenities at $800–$1,500/month.

Iraqi and Middle Eastern staples (bread, rice, lentils, olive oil, local spices) are exceptionally cheap at $1–$3 per item from neighborhood souks. Imported Western goods (cheese, cereals, coffee) carry 40–80% premiums. A weekly grocery budget for one person averages $25–$40 for mixed local and imported goods. Eating out at casual kebab shops and traditional restaurants costs $2–$4 per meal; mid-range dining in Erbil or central Baghdad runs $6–$12.

Public minibuses and shared taxis cost $0.25–$0.75 per ride in most cities. Private taxi apps (Uber and local services) operate reliably in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah ($2–$4 typical trips); Baghdad transportation is less formal. Fuel is heavily subsidized by the Iraqi government, making private vehicle ownership affordable. International flights from Baghdad International and Erbil International airports run $150–$400 to regional destinations (Turkey, UAE, Europe).

Public healthcare in Iraq is limited; expats rely on private hospitals and clinics concentrated in Baghdad and Erbil. General practitioner visits cost $25–$50; specialist consultations $40–$80. Private hospitals charge $1,500–$4,000 for minor surgeries. Medical tourism from Gulf states has driven quality improvements in Baghdad and Erbil's private sector. International health insurance (BUPA, Allianz) ranges $150–$350/month and is strongly recommended for expat families.