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Mashhad, Iraq
Capital City

Follows Iraq Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$550
Retiree Score
93.0
Safety Index
55.0
Healthcare
341 facilities

With a population of over 3 million, Mashhad is Iran's second-largest city and a major pilgrimage destination - but it's not for the faint of heart. The tax burden is heavy, the bureaucracy a persistent headache, and crime rates are concerning. And while the city enjoys a mild climate overall, you'll have to contend with searing summers and bitterly cold winters. Still, for the devout and adventure-seeking, Mashhad's unparalleled religious sites and vibrant culture may outweigh the drawbacks.

Can I afford Mashhad?

$

Mashhad

You could save

2,450/mo

Savings Rate82%

Monthly Costs

Rent $250
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$300

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
82/100
Retiree Score
(i)
93/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Iraq Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
55
Safety
341
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$4
Meal (Mid-range) $72
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $209
Mobile Plan (mo) $21
Gym (mo) *$12
Cinema Ticket $8

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $250
1BR Outside (mo) *$205
3BR Center (mo) $550
3BR Outside (mo) *$393

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Ahmadabad, Vakilabad
Best For
religious scholars

Expat Life Notes

A major religious hub; expats are mostly religious students or workers in the gemstone/food trade.

Pros

  • ✓ Rich religious history
  • ✓ Very affordable
  • ✓ Excellent food

Cons

  • ✗ Very conservative social rules
  • ✗ Sanctions affect daily life
  • ✗ Limited English

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
6°C°C - 38°C°C
Annual Rainfall
134 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Mar, Oct, Nov

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Mashhad

Click any question to expand the answer.

Mashhad has a population of approximately 3,208,000 people.

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

The nearest airport to Mashhad is MHD, approximately 14km away.

Mashhad is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 55.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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