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Baghdad, Iraq
Capital City

Follows Iraq Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$950
Retiree Score
93.0
Safety Index
35.4
Healthcare
1018 facilities

Life in the Iraqi capital is not for the faint of heart. With a population of 7.22 million, Baghdad generates 40% of the country's GDP but faces a heavy tax burden and rampant bureaucracy. The city's harsh desert climate, with scorching summers and mild winters, is a persistent headache. And while religious tourism has seen a revival since 2003, Baghdad still grapples with sporadic violence and terrorist threats. This chaotic, complex metropolis is best suited for those with a high tolerance for uncertainty and a strong stomach.

Can I afford Baghdad?

$

Baghdad

You could save

2,050/mo

Savings Rate68%

Monthly Costs

Rent $500
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
68/100
Retiree Score
(i)
93/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Iraq Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
35
Safety
1018
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $25
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $50
Mobile Plan (mo) *$10
Gym (mo) *$60
Cinema Ticket $8

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $400
1BR Outside (mo) *$164
3BR Center (mo) $880
3BR Outside (mo) *$315

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Mansour, Green Zone
Best For
diplomats, security professionals

Expat Life Notes

Baghdad remains a high-risk environment for expats, primarily housing security contractors and diplomatic staff.

Pros

  • ✓ Rich historical legacy
  • ✓ High hardship pay for workers

Cons

  • ✗ Severe safety risk
  • ✗ Extreme heat
  • ✗ Restricted movement

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
180 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Mar, Nov, Dec

Also Consider

Al-miqdadiyah, IraqLiving in Al-miqdadiyah, Iraq requires local connections and Arabic skills. Only viable for those with specific regional ties or work assignments.Al-mawsil, IraqAttractiveness Score: 64.6Bugojno, Bosnia and HerzegovinaLiving in Bugojno, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers extreme affordability amid post-war demographics. Ideal for frugal expats who prioritize nature over urban convGaranhuns, BrazilLiving in Garanhuns, Brazil offers a regional lifestyle with strong healthcare and education services. Ideal for retirees, but not for nomads.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Baghdad

Click any question to expand the answer.

Baghdad has a population of approximately 490,496 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,250 per month in Baghdad, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $500/month.

The nearest airport to Baghdad is BGW, approximately 14km away.

Baghdad is considered a higher-crime area that requires caution, with a safety index of 35.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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