Living in Azerbaijan: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Azerbaijan

Summary: People describe life in Azerbaijan as a mix of modern and traditional. Expats love the country's rich culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes. The cost of living for an expat in Azerbaijan is relatively low, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around $400 per month. The approximate population of Azerbaijan is 10 million, and the largest cities are Baku, Ganja, Sumqayit, and Mingachevir. The cons of living in Azerbaijan include the lack of job opportunities, the language barrier, and the limited public transportation. Additionally, the country is still developing and there are some areas that are not as safe as others.

What do I need to know about living in Azerbaijan?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Azerbaijan, they said:

"Before retiring in Azerbaijan, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Azerbaijani, as it is the official language of the country. It is also important to research the cost of living in Azerbaijan, as it can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for staying in the country. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Azerbaijan, as well as the availability of medical insurance. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural norms and customs of Azerbaijan, as well as the climate and weather conditions," said one expat in Azerbaijan.

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How do I meet people in Azerbaijan?

When we asked people living in Azerbaijan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Azerbaijan often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting cafes and restaurants, or joining social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join expat-specific organizations, such as the International Women's Club of Baku, which provides a platform for expats to connect and share experiences," said one expat who made the move to Azerbaijan.

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What is life like in Azerbaijan?

When we asked people living in Azerbaijan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Expat and digital nomads in Azerbaijan can enjoy a unique cultural experience. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Caucasus Mountains to the Caspian Sea. Expats and digital nomads can explore the country's vibrant cities, such as Baku, and experience its rich history and culture. The cost of living in Azerbaijan is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The country also offers a wide range of activities, from skiing in the mountains to exploring the ancient city of Sheki. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's excellent healthcare system and enjoy the hospitality of the local people," remarked one expat living in Azerbaijan.

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Is there a lot of crime in Azerbaijan?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is not a major problem in Azerbaijan. The country has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in the region. However, there have been reports of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, in some areas. The government has taken steps to address this issue, such as increasing police presence in public areas and introducing tougher penalties for certain crimes," wrote a member in Azerbaijan.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Azerbaijan accepting of differences?

"Azerbaijan is a culturally diverse country, with a population that includes Azerbaijanis, Russians, Armenians, Jews, and other ethnic groups. People in Azerbaijan are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of religious and cultural tolerance. The government has also taken steps to promote diversity and acceptance, such as introducing anti-discrimination legislation and creating a Ministry of National Minorities and Religious Affairs," said one expat in Azerbaijan.

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What are the schools in Azerbaijan like?

"The International School of Azerbaijan (ISA) is one of the best international schools in Azerbaijan. Located in Baku, the capital city, ISA offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows an American-style curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. ISA also offers a variety of language courses, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Russian. The Baku Oxford School is another excellent international school in Azerbaijan. This school offers a British-style curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a variety of language courses, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Russian. The Baku International School is a great bilingual school in Azerbaijan. This school offers a bilingual education program in both English and Azerbaijani. The school also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities and language courses, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Russian. The Baku Modern School is another excellent bilingual school in Azerbaijan. This school offers a bilingual education program in both English and Azerbaijani. The school also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities and language courses, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Russian," wrote an expat with kids at in .

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Is the cost of living in Azerbaijan high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Azerbaijan, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Azerbaijan is generally considered to be quite affordable. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while rent and dining out can be more expensive. Prices for goods and services vary depending on the city and region, but overall, Azerbaijan is a relatively affordable place to live," wrote one member in Azerbaijan.

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"The cost of living in Azerbaijan is relatively affordable, however the larger cities tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of the country. In one of the largest cities, Baku, the average rental price for a nice 1-bedroom apartment is around $500 per month, while a nice 2-bedroom apartment costs around $800 per month, plus additional costs such as utilities and deposits. Eating out at a moderately priced restaurant generally costs around $15-$20 per person, depending on the menu," said one expat.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Azerbaijan?

When we asked people living in Azerbaijan about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Azerbaijan, residents enjoy many recreational facilities including public parks, gardens, nature reserves, and numerous biking and hiking trails. For those looking to explore the great outdoors, there are also plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and boating at lakes, rivers, and along the coastline. Shopping and nightlife are abundant in Azerbaijan's cities, with many modern malls, boutique shops, and lively bars and clubs. Other popular activities in Azerbaijan include skiing, snowboarding, golf and tennis, as well as a wide range of cultural events and activities such as theatre and art exhibitions," mentioned an expat living in Azerbaijan.

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What is the weather like in Azerbaijan?

"The climate in Azerbaijan is generally mild and dry with cold winters and hot, dry summers. The mountainous areas of the country are colder in winter and cooler in summer, while the low-lying areas are warmer in winter and hotter in summer. Rainfall is generally low, with the greatest amount occurring in the western mountain regions. During the spring and autumn, temperatures are usually pleasant, whilst in summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C. Throughout winter, the average temperature typically stays around freezing point," wrote one expat living in Azerbaijan.

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Are there good restaurants in Azerbaijan?

"One popular restaurant in Azerbaijan is Yeni Vagzali, located in Baku. Serving traditional appetizers and classic Azerbaijani dishes, like qutab and plov, this restaurant offers an authentic culinary experience of the area. With views of Quba and its adjacent rivers, Yeni Vagzali offers a picturesque setting to enjoy a meal. Another popular eatery is Energia, located in the Old City of Baku. This restaurant specializes in Azerbaijani cuisine and serves a variety of dishes that explore the country's rich culinary heritage. Additionally, Energia extends its views to the Caspian Sea, providing a stunning backdrop while dining. Finally, Mugham Cafe is another restaurant located in Baku. Specializing in Azerbaijani dishes, this cafe is known for its sumptuous and flavorful meals. In addition, Mugham Cafe also provides excellent hospitality, allowing guests to experience the warm hospitality of the local culture," mentioned an expat living in Azerbaijan.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Azerbaijan?

"People living in Azerbaijan typically buy groceries from large supermarkets, small independent grocers, and outdoor markets. Shopping in Azerbaijan also includes visiting shopping malls, specialized stores and bazaars for fashion, accessories, and electronics. In rural areas, people often travel to neighboring villages and towns to purchase items that may not be available in their local communities. Local markets featuring handmade items and traditional foods are also popular places for shopping in Azerbaijan," remarked one expat living in Azerbaijan.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Azerbaijan?

"For those wishing to visit Azerbaijan, they can apply for a visa at an Azerbaijan Embassy. The first step of the process is to fill out the visa application, detailing the purpose and duration of travel. Along with the application, a passport, a passport-size photograph, and all documents related to the visit must be provided, such as an invitation letter, hotel booking confirmation, and proof of the financial means to cover the expenses. Depending on the purpose, additional documents may be requested. For those wishing to apply for a longer residency in Azerbaijan, the application must be lodged in the local passport and visa department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan. Documents necessary for the application include proof of income and tax information, a background check, a medical certificate, and proof of housing. After the documents have been submitted and thoroughly reviewed, a residence permit and card will be issued," said one expat living in Azerbaijan.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Azerbaijan?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Azerbaijan can be quite expensive, especially for expats and those living in more rural areas. Depending on the medical service being sought, costs for treatment can often be considerably higher than in many other countries. Health insurance plans can be costly and may require individuals to pay out of pocket for certain services. Although the government has implemented various policies to assist individuals in covering costs of medical treatments, the burden of expensive healthcare remains," said one expat living in Azerbaijan.

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