How Much Does It Cost to Live In Tehran?
The cost of living in Tehran, as in all other places in the world, depends on the particular area or city where you want to live.
Given the fact that it’s the capital of Iran, it’s really no wonder that it’s among the most expensive cities in Iran.
When it comes to cost of the living, Tehran is one of the cities where you can get by with just a small amount of money, if you really have no choice. But like any other big cities, having a roof over you head is the most pricey part of living in Tehran.
Iran : Cost of Living by City
RESTAURANTS
Eating out can be relatively affordable in Tehran, although prices between restaurants can vary sharply. You can expect restaurants in general to be a lot pricier than in most other parts of Iran. For example, a meal for two in a mid-range restaurant will cost you about 20$, and a meal in a non-expensive restaurant will be around 5$.
MARKETS
In general, the cost of everyday groceries is fairly cheap as in most countries. Or, at least cheaper than eating in restaurants, so tourists living in Tehran who opt to cook at home will save a considerable amount of money. Feel free to visit any supermarket, they offer a rich array of fairly cheap groceries, and get the cooking started!
TRANSPORTATION
The cost of transportation around in Tehran isn’t expensive and the prices are below the standard. Public transport is very affordable. Some tourists choose to use taxis or hire a private driver to take them around. However, keep in mind that renting or hiring a car in Tehran can be expensive. The price of gasoline especially is low.
UTILITIES (MONTHLY)
In comparison to other expenses in Tehran, utilities are not that expensive. Taking into consideration basic monthly utilities like electricity, water, heating and cooling, it all amounts to 34$ a month, which is very affordable for a normal-sized apartment of about 85m2. Monthly internet is somewhat expensive in comparison to that.
SPORTS & LEISURE
Having fun in Tehran or indulging in sports activities will cost you. Namely, these activities are more expensive in Iran, and even more so in Tehran, one of the biggest tourist destination in this country. This goes especially for renting out a tennis court per hour. Tickets for cinema, however, are less expensive than in many other countries, for instance.
CLOTHING & SHOES
Before splurging in Tehran’s many stores, check the prices twice as you might see them skyrocketing. One pair of jeans costs around 50$, maybe less, while quality sneakers can go as high as 150$. Your best bet is shopping for light pieces of clothing in chain stores like Zara, but don’t expect those to be cheap either.
RENT PER MONTH
Renting out an apartment in Tehran isn’t cheap, whether it’s in the suburbs or the city center. Of course, you can pay less if you rent an apartment in an area that isn’t large or a tourist attraction, but altogether it’s a pretty big investment. An apartment for one, or possibly two people can cost around 641$ while a bigger apartment for a family can cost three times as much.
Cost of Living Averages Table for Tehran
*Note: All prices are indicated in USD.| Average Restaurant Prices | |
|---|---|
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $5.94 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 Liter) | $0.71 |
| Water (0.33 Liter) | $0.26 | Average Market Prices |
| Milk (1 Liter) | $0.79 |
| Loaf Bread (500g) | $0.45 |
| Eggs (12) | $2.03 | Average Transport Prices |
| One Way Ticket | $0.24 |
| Monthly Pass | $11.88 |
| Gasoline | $0.24 | Average Utilities Prices |
| Basic (Water, Electricity, Garbage, Heating, Cooling) | $34.46 |
| 1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local | $0.02 |
| Internet (Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $28.00 | Average Leisure Prices |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $36.37 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour) | $21.29 |
| Cinema, 1 Seat, International Release | $3.56 | Average Clothing Prices |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Comparable) | $52.45 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, etc...) | $44.12 |
| 1 Pair of Adidas Walking Shoes (Mid-Range) | $145.69 | Average Rent Prices |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | $641.62 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Center | $394.40 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | $1414.15 |
How Does the Average Person Spend Their Money in Tehran?
Surprisingly enough, in Tehran, the biggest chunk of money doesn’t go on food, groceries and similar supplies, but on monthly rent. This makes sense, rent has got to be paid, but this just means that more people are renting in comparison to many other countries where rent is not as important.
The next chunk of expenses in Tehran goes on markets and supermarkets and transportation, because even though it’s inexpensive, it’s necessary and Tehran is a large city filled with people that have to get to places.
Average Costs Breakdown
Tehran: Average Salary, Minimum Wage & Mortgages
With a minimum wage of about 220$, many citizens of Tehran don’t have enough to cover their basic expenses, but for an average citizen the situation isn’t that bad, since middle class can earn enough for a relatively normal life – meaning they have everything necessary for a living.
The average monthly salary is just short of 500$ which is enough to lead a normal life and make ends meet.
If you are a tourist that wants to live in Tehran for a while, you will be able to get by with 700$ and you’ll need around 1000$ if you want to be completely relaxed.
Tehran Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Tehran Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
