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Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Capital City

Follows Turkmenistan Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,050
Retiree Score
72.0
Safety Index
62.4
Healthcare
8 facilities

Living in Ashgabat is an expensive proposition, with the city ranked the most costly for foreign expatriates in 2019 and 2020. Its population of 126,635 enjoys the trappings of an ambitious building program, but bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The climate is harsh, with scorching summers and short, cool winters. Despite the glitz, Ashgabat may not be the ideal destination for the average overseas resident.

Can I afford Ashgabat?

$

Ashgabat

You could save

950/mo

Savings Rate32%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,200
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$850

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
32/100
Retiree Score
(i)
72/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Turkmenistan Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
62
Safety
8
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $5
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $6
Rice (1kg) *$6
Chicken (1kg) *$13

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$29
Meal (Mid-range) $300
Cappuccino $7
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $571
Mobile Plan (mo) $57
Gym (mo) *$195
Cinema Ticket $14

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $720
1BR Outside (mo) *$393
3BR Center (mo) $1,440
3BR Outside (mo) *$838

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Ashgabat Centre, Berkararlyk, Parahat
Best For
diplomats, energy sector workers, academics on exchange

Expat Life Notes

Ashgabat is the capital of Turkmenistan, one of the world's most reclusive states. It is known for its white marble buildings and personality cult. Diplomatic staff, energy sector workers, and some academic exchange participants form the expat community.

Pros

  • ✓ Tax-free income potential
  • ✓ Unique Central Asian culture
  • ✓ Modern planned capital

Cons

  • ✗ Highly authoritarian government
  • ✗ Internet censorship
  • ✗ Very limited freedom

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

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

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ashgabat

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ashgabat has a population of approximately 126,635 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,000 per month in Ashgabat, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1200/month.

The nearest airport to Ashgabat is ASB, approximately 6km away.

Ashgabat is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 62.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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