Umm As-summaq sits 856 meters above sea level in Jordan's arid climate, about 6 kilometers from Amman Civil Airport (ADJ). The city's expat community is medium-sized, and the most popular expat neighborhood is Umm As-summaq itself, where many newcomers choose to settle. With a population of 1.3 million, the city offers a mix of urban convenience and high-altitude dry air.
Living costs in Umm As-summaq are modest compared to major global cities. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for $600 per month, while outside the center it drops to $420. A three-bedroom in the center costs $776, and outside the center it is $840. Monthly utilities run $53, internet is $32, and a mobile phone plan costs $16. A single person's monthly cost excluding rent is $650, while a family of four spends $1,950 excluding rent. Budget-tier total living costs for a single adult including rent come to $446 per month, mid-range totals $744, and comfortable living runs $1,020. The average monthly net salary locally is $846, and the cost of living index is 48 out of 100 (New York City = 100).
Safety is a strong point: the safety index is 70 out of 100, and the crime index is 28 out of 100 (lower is safer). Healthcare quality is rated as Fair, and the air quality index is 60 (lower is better). English proficiency is limited, so some Arabic language skills are helpful for daily life.
For those looking to stay long-term, Jordan offers a Temporary Residence Permit for retirees and a Jordan Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers. The nearest airport is ADJ, just 6 kilometers away. Umm As-summaq suits budget-conscious expats, digital nomads with a moderate score of 60 out of 100, and those focused on FIRE goals (score 73 out of 100). The retiree score is 55 out of 100, and the overall expat score is 71 out of 100.
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🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
$647/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: budget lifestyle
Umm As-summaq on a budget budget comes to about $647 a month for one adult, with $420 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $64.00 on groceries, $28.00 on dining out, $34.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $101 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$420/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$64.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$28.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$34.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$101/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$227/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
$790/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle
Umm As-summaq on a mid-range budget comes to about $790 a month for one adult, with $420 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $85.00 on groceries, $71.00 on dining out, $113 on entertainment and lifestyle and $101 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$420/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$85.00/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$71.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$113/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$101/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$370/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
$1,232/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: comfortable lifestyle
Umm As-summaq on a comfortable budget comes to about $1,232 a month for one adult, with $600 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $119 on groceries, $254 on dining out, $158 on entertainment and lifestyle and $101 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$600/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$119/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$254/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$158/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$101/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$632/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $600/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
Umm As-summaq is a relatively safe small city in Jordan with a Safety Index of 70, indicating low crime rates typical of provincial towns. Petty theft and pickpocketing occur occasionally in crowded markets, but violent crime against expats is rare. Main concerns include traffic safety (driving standards are inconsistent) and standard scams targeting foreigners in commercial areas. The city's small size and tight-knit community provide natural security. Geopolitically, Jordan remains stable; however, stay informed about regional developments. Overall, this is a secure choice for expats seeking a quiet, affordable lifestyle away from major urban centers.
🏥 Healthcare
Fair
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Available
See how Umm As-summaq's healthcare compares with Kerak (Al Karak)
🌤️ Climate
Climate Zones
Arid
Summer Temp
32°C
Winter Temp
4°C
Humidity
55%
Air Quality Index
60
Annual Rainfall
205 mm
Best Months
MayJunJulAug
Climate Notes
Semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters.
💻 Digital Nomad
Avg Internet Speed
30 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$32/mo
Coworking Availability
Limited
Coworking Spaces Nearby
3
Digital Nomad Score
60/100
Community Notes
A quiet suburban area with basic amenities suitable for digital nomads seeking peace.
Located in Amman (close proximity to Umm As-Summaq), The Office offers a professional environment with various membership options. It's a good option for those seeking a more established coworking space with reliable amenities and networking opportunities.
Regus has multiple locations in Amman, providing a consistent and reliable coworking experience. They offer flexible plans, meeting rooms, and business support services, making it suitable for remote workers needing a professional setup.
Located in Amman, WorkSpace provides a modern and collaborative environment. They offer various membership options, including hot desks and private offices, with amenities like high-speed internet and meeting rooms.
See how Umm As-summaq's digital nomad life compares with Kerak (Al Karak)
🧳 Expat Life
English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Umm As-summaq
Banks Nearby
151
ATMs Nearby
124
Expat Life Notes
An affluent residential area in western Amman. Most western expats choose this or neighboring Sweifieh.
Pros
✓ High-end shopping and malls
✓ Good modern housing
✓ High security
Cons
✗ Very car-dependent
✗ Traffic congestion
✗ Higher rent for the region
🏘️ Neighborhoods in Umm As-summaq
Areas of Umm As-summaq that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Umm Uthaina
Upscale, modern, convenient amenities
A wealthier district with modern apartments and villas. Many embassies and international organizations have offices here, making it popular with expats. Good access to shopping, restaurants, and other services, but can be pricier than other areas.
Abdoun
Trendy, vibrant, international atmosphere
Known for its nightlife, restaurants, and cafes, Abdoun is a popular choice for younger expats and digital nomads. It's relatively walkable and has a lively atmosphere. Expect higher prices and more traffic congestion.
Sweifieh
Commercial hub, bustling, modern
A major commercial area with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options. While not strictly residential, apartments are available. It's a convenient location with good transport links, but can be noisy and crowded.
Al Rabieh
Quiet, residential, family-friendly
A more suburban and residential area, Al Rabieh offers a quieter lifestyle. It's popular with families and those seeking a more relaxed environment. Requires a car for most errands, and English may be less widely spoken.
Dabouq
Exclusive, upscale, residential villas
An affluent area known for its large villas and gardens. It's a very quiet and private neighborhood, popular with diplomats and high-income residents. Requires a car, and rental options are primarily larger properties.
Tla' Al-Ali
Mid-range, residential, local feel
A more affordable residential area further from the city center. It offers a more authentic Jordanian experience. Public transportation is available, but a car is recommended. English proficiency may be limited.
Al Jubeiha
University area, student vibe, affordable
Home to the University of Jordan, Al Jubeiha has a large student population and a more budget-friendly atmosphere. It's a lively area with many shops and restaurants catering to students. Expect a younger crowd and less English spoken.
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Could living/working in Umm As-summaq cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $600/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Umm As-summaq has a population of approximately 1,275,857 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $1,500 per month in Umm As-summaq, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $600/month.
The nearest airport to Umm As-summaq is ADJ, approximately 6.2km away.
Umm As-summaq is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Umm As-summaq has an average internet speed of 30 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Amman is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70. Like any major city, standard precautions are recommended, but violent crime rates are low.
Living costs are moderate, with monthly expenses for a single expat ranging from $1,200-$1,800, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
While Arabic is beneficial, many international companies and the startup ecosystem use English extensively. Basic Arabic language skills will enhance your professional and social experiences.
While Arabic is the primary language, you can manage daily life with English, especially in tourist areas and when interacting with younger Jordanians. However, learning basic Arabic phrases will significantly enhance your experience and integration into the community. Expect a slower pace of life compared to major US cities, with a strong emphasis on family and community.
Umm As-summaq is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Violent crime is rare, but it's always recommended to take standard safety precautions, especially at night.
US citizens can initially enter Jordan on a tourist visa, which can be extended. For longer-term residency, you'll need to explore options like investing in property or starting a business. Consult with a Jordanian immigration lawyer to determine the best pathway for your specific situation.
Internet speeds in Umm As-summaq are generally adequate for remote work, with average download speeds sufficient for video conferencing and online tasks. However, reliability can vary, so consider a backup internet option or a mobile hotspot for critical work needs. Check with local providers like Zain or Orange for specific plans.
Coworking spaces are limited in Umm As-summaq itself, but you can find some in nearby Amman. Many cafes offer free Wi-Fi, but the speed and reliability can be inconsistent. Consider investing in a local SIM card with a data plan for more reliable internet access while working from cafes.
Healthcare in Umm As-summaq is generally good, with both public and private options available. While not all doctors speak fluent English, you can find English-speaking physicians, especially in private clinics. Consider having international health insurance for comprehensive coverage.
ATMs are readily available in Umm As-summaq, and most accept major international credit and debit cards. However, be aware of potential transaction fees. Consider opening a local bank account for easier access to funds and to avoid international transaction fees. Arab Bank and Bank al Etihad are popular choices.
Umm As-summaq has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Expect temperatures to range from 80-90°F (27-32°C) in the summer to 40-50°F (4-10°C) in the winter. Pack accordingly with light clothing for summer and layers for winter.
Taxis are the most common form of transportation in Umm As-summaq and are relatively inexpensive. Public buses are also available, but they can be crowded and less convenient for navigating the city. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are also available.
A single retiree could live comfortably in Umm As-summaq on a budget of $1,200-$1,800 USD per month, covering rent, food, utilities, and some leisure activities. This allows for a decent quality of life, especially if you embrace local culture and dining options. Of course, this depends on your lifestyle.
Yes, as a US citizen, you are still required to file US taxes even when living abroad. You may be eligible for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or the Foreign Tax Credit, which can reduce your US tax liability. Consult with a tax professional specializing in expat taxes.
Umm As-summaq offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Jordanian cuisine to international flavors. Eating out is relatively inexpensive, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around $5-$10 USD. Be sure to try local specialties like mansaf and falafel.
Jordan offers investment opportunities in sectors like tourism, renewable energy, and technology. However, it's essential to conduct thorough research and seek advice from financial professionals familiar with the Jordanian market. Understand the local regulations and potential risks before investing.
While Umm As-summaq has a smaller expat community compared to Amman, you can connect with other expats through online forums, social media groups, and local events. Networking with other expats can provide valuable support and insights into living in Jordan.
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