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

Summary: People describe life in Kazakhstan as a mix of traditional and modern. Expats love the country's natural beauty, its friendly people, and its low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month, depending on lifestyle. Kazakhstan has a population of around 18 million people, and the largest cities are Almaty, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), Shymkent, and Karaganda. The cons of living in Kazakhstan include the lack of infrastructure in some areas, the language barrier, and the difficulty of finding reliable internet access. Additionally, the country is still transitioning from a Soviet-style economy to a more market-based one, so there can be some economic instability.

What do I need to know about living in Kazakhstan?

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

"Before retiring in Kazakhstan, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the cost of living in the area, as prices can vary significantly from city to city. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as any visa requirements that may apply. Finally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services in the area, as well as any insurance coverage they may need," wrote one member in Kazakhstan.

"Make sure they are well paid Almaty is expensive more than London or Amsterdam and much more than US cities. Have good medical insurrance you need to be flown out for almost anything. Only come if you like out door activities, skiing, walking, there is limited cultual activity though what there ia is more accessible than other cities in the world. Opera and ballet is inexpensive. There are several art galleries and many up and coming artisits. Buy the biggest stongest car you can afford, land cruiser or similar the traffic is deadly, don't take the local gypsy cabs unregulated cars which pick up people, they are very dangerous. Take great care crossing the road. Bring as much of everything that you can, it is probably available here but you won't like the price, lack of choice or quality," remarked one expat who made the move to Almaty.

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How do I meet people in Kazakhstan?

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

"Expats in Kazakhstan often join international clubs and activities such as the American Women's Association, the British Business Club, and the International Women's Club. These clubs provide a great way to meet other expats and locals, and to learn more about the culture and language of Kazakhstan. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to Kazakhstan, which can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals," wrote a member in Kazakhstan.

"Almaty International Women's Group despite the name it is open to both men and women. They have a guide, lots of activities and meet every Wednesday in the Ankara Intercontinental Hotel, 10.30 to 12.00 Otherwise expat bars Mad Murphy's Dostyk Avenue very well known," commented one expat who made the move to Almaty.

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What is life like in Kazakhstan?

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

"Living in Kazakhstan as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The country offers a unique blend of modern and traditional culture, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and camping in the summer. The country also offers a wide range of cultural experiences, from traditional Kazakh music and dance to modern art galleries and museums. The cost of living in Kazakhstan is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The country also offers excellent healthcare and education facilities, making it a great place to live and work," remarked one expat who made the move to Kazakhstan.

"I belong to the marries group and really don't know any single people here so I can't judge. The married lot socialise with each other, dinner's parties, trips to the mountains and places of interest. There always seems plenty going on. Many of the employed people spend a lot of time travelling within the country, its 2000KM to the capital Astana from Almaty and 3,000 to the Caspian. So they tend to want quiet weekends," explained one expat living in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

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Is there a lot of crime in Kazakhstan?

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

"Kazakhstan has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries. However, there have been reports of organized crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking in the country. Additionally, there have been reports of corruption and bribery in the government and business sectors," said one expat in Kazakhstan.

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

"Kazakhstan is a culturally diverse country, with over 130 ethnic groups living within its borders. Kazakhs, Russians, Ukrainians, Uzbeks, and Uyghurs are the largest ethnic groups in the country. People in Kazakhstan are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various ethnic groups. The government has also taken steps to promote tolerance and acceptance of diversity, such as introducing a national holiday to celebrate the country's cultural diversity," explained one expat living in Kazakhstan.

"It's generally very relaxed. There is no dress code the women in summer wear very revealing clothes. Generally people are smartly dressed only the expats wear shorts in town. I have never seen homosexuals openly walking hand in hand as in Europe so I have the impression this is not tolerated, nor people kissing on the streets, so I assume its not done," said one expat in Almaty.

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What are the schools in Kazakhstan like?

"For primary school (elementary school). QSI is fine. Their numbers tend to be high enough for the children to have decent socialization. Class sizes are low when compared to public schools at home, which is nice. The QSI curriculum is good and on par with other American-type programs. I advise workers not to bring teenagers abroad. You are pulling them away from their peer groups during a crucial developmental stage. (Do you really need to move?) If you must, these smaller QSI schools will educate them, but with limited social opportunities. Also, there is little to do in these communities, outside of school. Note: Tuition is high, because numbers are low, and the schools are developing. I was troubled by some comments, so I chose to write this. "Ask for a copy of the school handbook Ask about staff turnover and religious affiliation. " 1. Yes, ask for a copy of the school handbook. All the schools should have one. 2. Staff turnover. This is Kazakhstan, it's considered a hardship posting for most companies. Teachers don't have the monetary incentives that oil companies (and other expat industries) receive. Ask yourself what keeps you here? 3. Religious affiliation? I know that QSI does tend to hire "Christian" teachers. I've known non-religious and Muslim teachers in QSI schools. The religious beliefs of the staff, or ownership is not reflected in the curriculum nor teaching practices in any way different than a teacher in a public school's beliefs would. As for qualifications of locally hired teachers. There is a problem with language ability or locals, because once their ability improves, expat companies tend to hire them away from the schools. Final note: I do believe that the QSI organization takes input from the companies and organizations that pay your children's fees quite seriously," commented one expat when asked about QSI (Astana, Aktau, Atyrau) in Astana.

"Don't believe this is an International school for a second. Most expats go to the QSI school because it's the best...which is really saying something!. Only a tiny percentage of students are expats. It's really a private school for rich Kazakh families. They run the PYP and MYP programmes but the local staff lack international understanding. Their teaching methods are out of date and the school lacks adequate resources. Fees are paid directly to the board and it's obvious only a small proportion gets passed on for running the school. Thankfully our contract is over shortly and we can get our kids back into a school that values children and not just looking good to the outside world," explained one expat in Astana, Kazakhstan with kids at Miras Astana International School.

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Is the cost of living in Kazakhstan high?

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

"The cost of living in Kazakhstan is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the city and region. For example, living in the capital city of Nur-Sultan is more expensive than living in smaller cities and towns. Additionally, the cost of living can be higher in areas with higher levels of tourism," said one expat in Kazakhstan.

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"Kazakhstan has a generally low cost of living compared to other countries. The capital city of Astana and the largest city of Almaty tend to have higher costs of living than the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Kazakhstan is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Kazakhstan can cost around $10 USD per person," said one expat living in Kazakhstan.

"The cost of living in Almaty is "Euro light". For example, American groceries and fruits and vegetable out of season can be very expensive. However, there is always an abundance of season produce that is extremely inexpensive. Gas is very cheap. Buying a car can be expensive. Household items, clothing, and public transportation is far less expensive than Western prices. Housing can be expensive closer to downtown, but in the outlying areas of the city, all with excellent public transportation, homes and nice apartments are much more reasonably prices, and well below Western prices," mentioned one expat inAlmaty.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Kazakhstan?

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

"Kazakhstan offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Popular activities include skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, as well as hiking, camping, and fishing in the summer. There are also many parks and gardens throughout the country, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. For those looking for a more urban experience, there are plenty of shopping malls, cinemas, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, Kazakhstan is home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres," mentioned one expat inKazakhstan.

"Almaty abounds with activities for all ages. The Kok Tobe gondola soars to Medeu Winter Park and beyond, year round. From the top, there is a children's carnival area and many hiking trails and restaurants, and skiing an ice skating in winter. There are three ski resorts within 45 minutes of Almaty. There are countless hiking trails in the mountains and by the many lakes that surround the city. There are private gyms and swimming and tennis clubs, and several golf courses. There is horse trekking just outside the city. There are thermal hot springs at the foot of the mountains, sledging hills, and nordic ski trails," commented one expat who moved to Almaty, Kazakhstan.

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What is the weather like in Kazakhstan?

"Kazakhstan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The weather can vary greatly from region to region, with the northern regions experiencing colder temperatures and more snowfall than the southern regions. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) and in the winter months, temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F). Rainfall is generally low throughout the year, with the majority of precipitation occurring in the spring and autumn months," said an expat in Kazakhstan.

"Almaty has four true seasons, and each is glorious. The majestic mountains that ring the city are lush and green in the summer and snow covered in winter. They beckon those who love to hike, ski, or just be outdoors. Almaty's summers are warm but not humid. It is a dry climate. Winter sees quite a bit of snow, but wind chill is not a factor due to the mountains. Spring and fall are colorful and lovely," remarked one expat in Almaty.

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Are there good restaurants in Kazakhstan?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Kazakhstan is the Beshbarmak restaurant in Almaty. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant serves traditional Kazakh cuisine, including the national dish of beshbarmak, a hearty stew made with lamb, potatoes, and noodles. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as shashlik (grilled meat skewers), plov (rice pilaf), and lagman (noodle soup). The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Kazakhstan is the Kebab House in Astana. This restaurant specializes in kebabs, but also offers a variety of other dishes, such as shashlik, plov, and lagman. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Finally, the Chayhana restaurant in Almaty is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant serves traditional Kazakh cuisine, including beshbarmak, shashlik, plov, and lagman. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers a variety of teas and desserts, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal," commented one expat who moved to Kazakhstan.

"Downtown, there are may pubs and restaurants. In the spring and summer, Almaty has somewhat of a sidewalk cafe atmosphere. There is every variety of restaurant imaginable, from fast food to English pub to high end French and Italian dining and ethnic cuisines like Uzbek and Georgian. Drinking with friends is a usual activity in Almaty, and everyone at the pubs seems very friendly. Karaoke bars are also big in the city," said one expat.

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

"People living in Kazakhstan typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are a variety of specialty stores and boutiques throughout the country that offer unique items," said one expat.

"The local supermarkets Magnum and Ramstore abound in Almaty. They have most everything foreigners could want in grocery and household items. The prices are far less than Western prices. For specialty groceries, Interfood and ADK have several locations in town, and the Gourmet Market at Esentai and Colibri offer many high end Western grocery products. Additionally, small and convenience markets like Bekker's and the local bazaars carry many grocery and household items and can be found in every neighborhood of the city. There are several malls (Dostyk Plaza, Esentai, Aport) which carry Western clothing brands, from luxury brands like Chanel and Burberry to H&M, Zara, and Mango. There is an amazing chain call SportMaster which has several locations and excellent prices on sporting goods and clothing. Armada has a seemingly endless array of furniture, and there are eveb pop-up IKEA stores in a couple of locations in town," commented one expat living in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Kazakhstan?

"In order to visit Kazakhstan, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and other supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from a host in Kazakhstan, proof of financial means, and a medical certificate. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Kazakhstan, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Migration Police. The application must include a valid passport, a medical certificate, proof of financial means, and a letter of invitation from a host in Kazakhstan. The application must also include a copy of the applicant's birth certificate, a copy of their marriage certificate (if applicable), and a copy of their criminal record (if applicable). Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," mentioned an expat living in Kazakhstan.

"Kazakhstan requires a visa for foreigners. Work visas can be obtained through employers. Travel visa for Americans are good for 30 days. The visa process can be quite arduous, and many foreigners do a visa run to the border with Kyrgyzstan, which is quick and cheap," said an expat in Almaty.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kazakhstan?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kazakhstan can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Kazakhstan is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. However, the government does provide some subsidies for health insurance, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage. Additionally, there are a number of private health insurance companies that offer competitive rates," commented one expat who moved to Kazakhstan.

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