Many expats who are assigned to Qatar or retirees who want to live in Qatar after retiring ask what is the cost of living in Qatar. Is it too expensive to live in Qatar? Or is it the same as other countries in North America or Europe?

The cost of living in Qatar for you and your family will largely depend on the lifestyle you are used to. Particularly in Doha, the cost of living index is relatively high, ranking 49 out of 300 companies in terms of expensive living. Let’s look at the cost of basic necessities in Qatar so that you can assess whether living in Qatar is expensive or not.

1. Accommodation

Expats in Qatar often rent apartments, villas, or condos. Most apartments are not furnished, but furnished apartments are also available. In most rentals, amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds are available and are charged as part of the monthly rental payment for the unit.

A furnished studio or one-bedroom unit costs around QAR 5,000 to rent, which is approximately USD 1,370. However, if you rent a villa with 4 bedrooms, it can cost up to QAR 20,000 if you are in an expat resort.

2. Supermarket

The cost of food, soft drinks and other household items necessary to keep daily life possible is comparatively expensive compared to other countries. This is especially true if you also want to buy internationally known food brands.

For a family of two, reserve around QAR 1,800 or approximately USD 490 for this expense.

3.Utilities

The good thing about Qatar is that basic services like water, electricity, gas and telephone lines are subsidized by the government. Therefore, this particular expense will be much cheaper compared to other countries. However, living in Qatar, given the high temperatures, will lead you to use your air conditioning system, especially in the summer months.

For a family of two, utilities as a whole will cost around QAR 1,100, or about USD 300. This low price offsets the cost of living in Qatar a little lower.

4. Clothes

Even if clothing is a bit expensive in Qatar, Qatar’s living conditions will not require you to overdress given the country’s hot temperature.

For a family of two, clothes for both people will cost around QAR 1,100, or about USD 300.

5. Health

If you are an expat, this particular item will not be a problem for you considering that your employer should cover it for you and your spouse. However, if this will not be covered on a monthly basis, you will need to use your own health insurance provider.

For a family of two, healthcare coverage for both people will cost around QAR 1,300, roughly USD 360 per month. This is a definite must cover item for you and your family.

In general, the cost of living in Qatar is not that different in most progressive countries.