ESSENTIAL GUIDE
Cost of Living in Amman
Plan Your Stay with Confidence
Amman offers a unique balance between affordability and quality of life. Costs vary depending on your neighborhood, habits, and preferred lifestyle, but this guide gives you a practical starting point.
LIVING IN AMMAN
Affordable, Flexible & Lifestyle-Dependent
Rent is normally the largest monthly expense. Food, transportation, and services can remain reasonably affordable, especially when you use local options and choose accommodation outside the city center.
Your final budget will depend on where you live, how often you eat out, your transportation choices, and your personal spending habits.
At a Glance
- Housing is usually the largest expense
- Local food and public transportation are budget-friendly
- International lifestyles and premium areas cost more
- Speaking with locals helps you find the latest prices
MONTHLY EXPENSES
Typical Costs in Amman
These figures are general estimates and can change according to location, season, and personal choices.
Housing & Rent
- City Center: $300 – $600 per month
- Outside Center: $200 – $400 per month
- Rent is typically the largest expense
Utilities & Internet
- Basic Services: $100 – $200 per month
- Internet: $30 – $50 per month
- Costs vary by usage and accommodation
Food & Dining
- Groceries: $150 – $300 per month
- Local Meal: around $5
- Mid-range Dining: $20+
Transportation
- Bus Fares: $0.50 – $1.00 per trip
- Taxi Base: approximately $0.70 + distance
- Public transportation helps reduce costs
Healthcare
- Generally affordable compared to many Western countries
- Health insurance is recommended
- Insurance often provides better rates
Education
- International schools: $5,000 – $20,000 per year
- Fees depend on the institution
- Private and international options vary widely
BUDGET PLANNING
Build a Realistic Monthly Budget
A practical student or expat budget should account for housing, services, food, local transportation, healthcare, and a flexible amount for personal activities.
Simple Budget Checklist
- Choose your preferred neighborhood first
- Estimate rent and utilities together
- Decide how often you plan to eat out
- Include transportation and mobile/internet costs
- Keep an emergency and leisure allowance
- Confirm current prices before arrival
OVERALL PERSPECTIVE
Amman Can Fit Different Lifestyles
Amman is generally more affordable than many Western cities, but monthly expenses can increase quickly depending on your lifestyle. Premium neighborhoods, frequent dining out, private transportation, and imported products will raise your budget.
For the most accurate and current information, speak with local residents and confirm prices shortly before your arrival.
Important Note
All prices shown on this page are approximate. Actual costs may change over time and vary by area, provider, exchange rate, and personal usage.
Need Help Planning Your Move to Amman?
Misbah Center supports students before and during their stay in Jordan. Contact our team with questions about daily life, accommodation, transportation, or Arabic courses.