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Urmia, Iran
Capital City

Follows Iran Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$600
Retiree Score
92.0
Safety Index
66.4
Healthcare
78 facilities

With a population of 736,224, Urmia is Iran's 10th-largest city, but don't let the size fool you - this diverse, historic metropolis comes with some serious trade-offs. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, while the region's drought has taken a toll on the local climate. Still, Urmia's mix of Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Assyrians, and others has created a uniquely multicultural hub, making it an intriguing option for those drawn to the country's cultural riches.

Can I afford Urmia?

$

Urmia

You could save

2,400/mo

Savings Rate80%

Monthly Costs

Rent $250
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$350

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
80/100
Retiree Score
(i)
92/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Iran Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
66
Safety
78
Healthcare
100
Walkability
5
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $1
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $24
Cappuccino $1
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $12
Mobile Plan (mo) *$9
Gym (mo) *$22
Cinema Ticket $3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $250
1BR Outside (mo) *$184
3BR Center (mo) $550
3BR Outside (mo) *$368

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Very Few
Top Neighborhoods
Mohtasham
Best For
anthropologists

Expat Life Notes

Near the salt lake, Urmia has a multicultural Azeri/Kurdish influence but few western expats.

Pros

  • ✓ Diverse cultural mix
  • ✓ Beautiful lake scenery (though shrinking)
  • ✓ Low costs

Cons

  • ✗ Isolated location
  • ✗ Limited English services
  • ✗ Modest infrastructure

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
-2°C°C - 33°C°C
Annual Rainfall
225 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Urmia

Click any question to expand the answer.

Urmia has a population of approximately 736,224 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $625 per month in Urmia, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $250/month.

The nearest airport to Urmia is TBZ, approximately 122km away.

Urmia is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 66.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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