114 cities covered · Currency: IQD (ع.د) · Capital: Baghdad
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ع.د5,832 ($4.45) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ع.د23,328 ($17.81) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ع.د1,750 ($1.34) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ع.د132,195 ($101) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ع.د21,384 ($16.32) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ع.د56,377 ($43.04) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ع.د16,330 ($12.47) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ع.د16,330 ($12.47) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ع.د4,277 ($3.26) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ع.د243,048 ($186) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ع.د169,077 ($129) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ع.د507,231 ($387) | per month |
Baghdād · pop. 8,126,755
Nīnawá · pop. 1,792,000
Al Başrah · pop. 1,326,564
Karkūk · pop. 975,000
As Sulaymānīyah · pop. 878,146
Al Anbār · pop. 874,543
Arbīl · pop. 846,000
An Najaf · pop. 724,700
Karbalā’ · pop. 690,100
Dhī Qār · pop. 541,600
Bābil · pop. 541,034
Maysān · pop. 511,500
Diyālá · pop. 467,900
Al Qādisīyah · pop. 391,600
Al Başrah · pop. 370,000
Dahūk · pop. 330,600
Al Qādisīyah · pop. 260,000
Dhī Qār · pop. 254,000
Al Anbār · pop. 250,884
Dahūk · pop. 219,006
Al Muthanná · pop. 215,000
Al Başrah · pop. 203,155
As Sulaymānīyah · pop. 197,700
Baghdād · pop. 189,000
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Iraq
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Iraq
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Iraq
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Iraq
Living costs in Iraq vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ع.د557,885 ($426) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.