Doha, Qatar

Cost of Living in Qatar

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 16, 2025

Summary: The cost of living in Qatar is generally high, with prices for basic goods and services being comparable to those in other major cities in the Middle East. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Qatar can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Qatar is usually around $20 to $30 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Qatar high?

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

"The cost of living in Qatar is generally considered to be high, with the cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation being significantly higher than in many other countries. The cost of luxury items such as cars, electronics, and clothing is also quite high. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can be quite expensive, as Qatar is known for its high-end restaurants, shopping malls, and other attractions," said one expat in Qatar.

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Will I save money living in Qatar?

"Living in Qatar can be more cost-effective than living in the United States in some areas. The cost of living in Qatar is generally lower than in the United States, with rent and utilities being particularly affordable. Additionally, food and transportation costs are also lower in Qatar than in the United States. Furthermore, Qatar has no income tax, which can help to reduce overall living expenses," said one expat in Qatar.

What is the average cost of housing in Qatar?

If you are thinking about moving to Qatar, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Qatar is generally quite high, with the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the capital city of Doha ranging from around 10,000 to 15,000 Qatari Riyals per month. Prices for larger apartments and villas can be significantly higher," remarked one expat in Qatar.

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Qatar?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Qatar can range from around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month," said one expat.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Qatar what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Qatar typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, microwave, and other small appliances. Furniture may also be included in some rental properties," said one expat.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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