Cost of Living in Jordan

Jordan is one of the most expensive Middle Eastern countries to live in, and it certainly bears a higher cost of living than many would expect of a developing country. In Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2023, Jordan’s capital city, Amman, ranked alongside popular expats destinations such as Auckland and Glasgow, placing 110th out of 227 countries surveyed.

The problem is not so much that goods and services are pricey; rather, local salaries aren’t high enough for locals to comfortably afford them. Expats tend to earn higher salaries than locals though, so most will be able to afford a comfortable lifestyle, but this is not always the case and expats should consider carefully before accepting a salary offer.

Cost of accommodation in Jordan

Rental costs are likely to be the biggest expense in Jordan, though the extent of this depends on the type of accommodation. Sharing a house or apartment is a great way to cut costs while building connections in your new country. Furniture and electronics can be expensive, so it is usually worthwhile to opt for fully furnished accommodation, even though the rental costs are higher than those of non-furnished accommodation.

The cost of utilities is generally separate from the rental price and must be paid by tenants. This includes water, electricity and gas for heating and cooking. In winter, the utility bill can easily double, so expats should adjust their budget accordingly.

Cost of food and clothing in Jordan

If expats stick to buying seasonal local fruit and vegetables, the cost of groceries is likely to remain at an affordable level. That said, imported goods are typically expensive, and the same applies to clothing. Expats will find reasonably priced clothing at local shops, but the price tag on international brands can be steep.

Cost of eating out and entertainment in Jordan

Expats accustomed to regularly going out for a quick drink after work will find this an expensive habit to maintain in Jordan. As the country is governed according to the principles of Islam, most locals don’t drink alcohol at all. There are Western-owned bars and clubs available for the minority in Jordan who do drink, but the relative scarcity of alcohol means it is expensive, and the heavy tax imposed on alcohol pushes the price up even further.

The cost of eating out in Jordan varies greatly. Local restaurants are usually affordable, but those attached to hotels or in touristy spots such as resort areas are known for their often ludicrously high prices.

Cost of transport in Jordan

Taxis are a cheap way to get around Jordan, provided expats don’t allow drivers to take advantage by overcharging them. Buying a car in Jordan can be expensive, but expats may be able to save some money by importing a car from a neighbouring country. Petrol is quite affordable in Jordan.

Cost of education and schooling in Jordan

Basic schooling is compulsory in Jordan and is provided by public schools at no cost. Although private schools and international schools carry a far higher cost, the facilities on offer in these institutions are excellent. Expat parents in the process of negotiating relocation benefits should consider asking for an education allowance if this is the route they want to go.