What is the monthly cost of living in Azerbaijan?

The amount you spend on rent, food and other bills every month may change a lot based on your location, whether you’re a local, an expat or a tourist and how you live. Baku is usually more expensive than other places such as Ganja, Sumqayit and Lankaran. Outlined below are the living costs to expect in 2025.

Cost of living in Baku (Capital City)

Baku serves as the capital of Azerbaijan for politics, culture and business and it is more expensive than other parts of the country.

Accommodation

• In central Baku, 1-bedroom apartments typically cost 800–1,200 AZN/month, though locals or long-term tenants may find options for less in non-touristy neighborhoods.
• In suburbs: 400–700 AZN. If you're renting, expect housing to be your largest monthly expense.

Utilities & Internet

• Electricity, water, heating, garbage: 80–150 AZN/month
• Internet (unlimited, good speed): 25–40 AZN/month

Food & Groceries

• Monthly grocery cost for a single person: 300–500 AZN
• Family of 4 with moderate spending: 600–800 AZN
  Prices rise significantly if you frequently buy imported goods, fresh meat, or dine out often.

Transportation

• Public transport (metro, bus): 0.20 AZN/trip
• Taxi (short trip): 2–5 AZN
• Fuel: Around 1 AZN/liter, costing 200–300 AZN/month for car owners

Dining & Entertainment

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: 5–10 AZN
• Mid-range meal for two: 40–60 AZN
• Entertainment for a family of 4 (weekly): 50–70 AZN
  A person can live modestly with 20–50 AZN per week for entertainment if needed.

Cost of living in other cities (Ganja, Lankaran, etc.)

Outside Baku, the cost of living is 20–40% lower. However, while expenses are reduced in cities like Ganja or Lankaran, employment opportunities—especially for expats—can be limited. It's important to balance affordability with realistic job prospects before relocating.

• Rent for a decent apartment: 200–400 AZN/month
• Groceries and food: 200–300 AZN/month
• Public transportation in smaller towns is very affordable, and in some cases, subsidized or free for certain groups such as students or seniors.

Many locals in smaller cities live comfortably on 600–800 AZN/month, particularly if they own their home and avoid major luxury expenses.

Realistic monthly estimates

Some expats earning 5,000–6,000 AZN/month report financial pressure, particularly due to high rents, international school fees, and the cost of imported goods in Baku. On the other hand, many local families survive on less than 1,000 AZN/month through careful budgeting.

Families with children in international schools may spend 1,500–3,000 AZN/month on tuition alone, depending on the institution. Additionally, premium healthcare plans and imported consumer goods can add significantly to monthly expenses, especially for foreign residents seeking international-level services.

Conclusion

Depending on your salary, where you live in Azerbaijan and your lifestyle, your monthly expenses can differ a lot. Sure, Baku can be pricey, but most other places or living on a simple budget in Azerbaijan are relatively affordable for foreigners. Anyone—both locals, digital nomads and foreigners—can have a lifestyle that works for their budget by making the right plans.

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