Cost of Living in Oman
for Expats 2026

Rental prices in Muscat range from $400–$700/month for a furnished one-bedroom apartment in central areas like Bousher or Azaiba, with unfurnished options running $350–$600. Secondary cities like Salalah and Sohar are considerably cheaper, with one-bedroom rentals at $250–$450/month. Expat compounds and villas are abundant, typically $600–$1,200/month, offering secure residential communities with amenities. The apartment market favors long-term tenants; furnished units command a 15–20% premium but eliminate the hassle of furnishing.

Local supermarkets and souks offer excellent value for groceries—a weekly shop for two costs $30–$50 with a mix of imported and local products. Eating out is affordable: lunch at a local restaurant runs $3–$8, while casual Western dining averages $12–$20 per person. Imported goods (cheese, cereals, specialty items) cost 20–30% more than in the US, but staples like rice, vegetables, and seafood are cheap and fresh.

Public transport is minimal in Oman; most expats rely on private cars or taxis. Taxi fares within Muscat average $2–$4 per ride, while rideshare apps like Uber operate at similar rates. A used car (2010s Toyota or Nissan) costs $6,000–$12,000; fuel is subsidized at approximately $0.50/liter. Monthly gas budget for local driving is $30–$50; intercity trips by bus are cheap ($5–$15) but less common.

Oman's public healthcare system is accessible to expats with sponsorship, with nominal consultation fees of $2–$5. Private clinics and hospitals (Al Garhoud, Royal Hospital) offer Western-standard care at $30–$80 per consultation. Comprehensive expat health insurance costs $800–$1,500/year; many employers provide coverage. Dental work is affordable ($100–$300 for cleaning and fillings), and prescription medications are inexpensive.