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Astana (Nur-Sultan), Kazakhstan
Capital City

Follows Kazakhstan Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,180
Retiree Score
86.0
Safety Index
82.1
Healthcare
126 facilities

At over 1.5 million people, Astana (Nur-Sultan) has grown rapidly since becoming Kazakhstan's capital in 1997. However, the frigid winters and frequent strong winds are a constant headache for residents. The city's bureaucracy can also be a hassle, with frequent name changes - it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the capital with the most name changes. Still, Astana's modern architecture, booming economy, and status as a diplomatic hub make it an attractive destination for young professionals seeking career opportunities in Central Asia.

Can I afford Astana (Nur-Sultan)?

$

Astana (Nur-Sultan)

You could save

1,820/mo

Savings Rate61%

Monthly Costs

Rent $600
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$580

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
61/100
Retiree Score
(i)
86/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
60/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Kazakhstan Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
82
Safety
126
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$10
Meal (Mid-range) $94
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $60
Mobile Plan (mo) $10
Gym (mo) *$56
Cinema Ticket $6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $600
1BR Outside (mo) *$328
3BR Center (mo) $1,300
3BR Outside (mo) *$612

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Esil District, Ak-Bulak
Best For
corporate assignees

Expat Life Notes

A purpose-built modern capital with extreme weather. Expats are usually in diplomacy, energy, or government consulting.

Pros

  • ✓ Ultra-modern infrastructure
  • ✓ Very safe and clean
  • ✓ Rising international profile

Cons

  • ✗ Severe winters (-30C)
  • ✗ Artificial urban feel
  • ✗ Significant language barrier

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
-18°C°C - 27°C°C
Annual Rainfall
410 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Click any question to expand the answer.

Astana (Nur-Sultan) has a population of approximately 697,129 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,500 per month in Astana (Nur-Sultan), including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $600/month.

The nearest airport to Astana (Nur-Sultan) is NQZ, approximately 12km away.

Astana (Nur-Sultan) is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 82.1. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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