Pros and Cons of Living in Uzbekistan
Last updated on Aug 19, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Uzbekistan include its rich cultural heritage, its diverse landscapes, and its vibrant cities. Additionally, Uzbekistan has a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for expats. On the other hand, the country has a poor human rights record, and its infrastructure is still developing. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, which can be a cause for concern.
What are the pros and cons of living in Uzbekistan?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Uzbekistan responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Uzbekistan often appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its friendly people. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which makes it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the lack of modern infrastructure and the slow pace of life in Uzbekistan to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a source of frustration for those who don't speak the local language," explained one expat living in Uzbekistan.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do expats in Uzbekistan appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Uzbekistan appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its vibrant architecture, art, music, and cuisine. They also enjoy the hospitality of the local people, who are known for their warmth and generosity. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains of the Tien Shan to the lush Fergana Valley. Finally, expats enjoy the unique customs and traditions of Uzbekistan, such as the colorful Nowruz celebration and the ancient art of carpet-weaving," said one expat in Uzbekistan.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Uzbekistan often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. Language barriers can be a challenge, as many locals do not speak English. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand, as they are often quite different from those of the expat's home country. Furthermore, the local cuisine can be quite unfamiliar to expats, as it is often quite spicy and heavily reliant on meat. Finally, the local dress code can be difficult to adhere to, as it is often quite conservative," replied an expat in Uzbekistan.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Uzbekistan Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Uzbekistan
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Uzbekistan
- Best Places to Live in Uzbekistan
- Guide to Real Estate in Uzbekistan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Uzbekistan
- Cost of Living in Uzbekistan
- Buying a Home in Uzbekistan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Uzbekistan
- How to Rent a Home in Uzbekistan
- How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Uzbekistan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Uzbekistan 2025