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Atyrau, Kazakhstan
Capital City

Follows Kazakhstan Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,030
Retiree Score
71.0
Safety Index
65.4
Healthcare
38 facilities

Harsh winters, broiling summers, and a heavy industrial footprint - that's the reality of life in this oil-dependent city. Atyrau has a population of 295,496, with Kazakhs making up the majority at 88% of residents. The air quality is poor due to pollution from the city's refineries, with toxic hydrogen sulfide gas regularly exceeding safe limits. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's long history of name changes. Overall, Atyrau is best suited for those drawn to the opportunities in Kazakhstan's energy sector, able to tolerate the extreme climate, and willing to navigate the region's administrative challenges.

Can I afford Atyrau?

$

Atyrau

You could save

1,970/mo

Savings Rate66%

Monthly Costs

Rent $480
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$550

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
66/100
Retiree Score
(i)
71/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Kazakhstan Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
65
Safety
38
Healthcare
100
Walkability
95
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$9
Meal (Mid-range) $83
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $49
Mobile Plan (mo) $10
Gym (mo) *$61
Cinema Ticket $6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $384
1BR Outside (mo) *$263
3BR Center (mo) $720
3BR Outside (mo) *$490

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Privokzalny
Best For
energy sector workers

Expat Life Notes

The oil capital of Kazakhstan has a high hardship expat group centered in secured compounds.

Pros

  • ✓ High income sector
  • ✓ Modern gated compounds

Cons

  • ✗ Extreme winters and summers
  • ✗ Environmental concerns
  • ✗ Isolated location

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
371 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Sep

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Atyrau

Click any question to expand the answer.

Atyrau has a population of approximately 295,496 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,200 per month in Atyrau, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $480/month.

The nearest airport to Atyrau is GUW, approximately 5km away.

Atyrau is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 65.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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