Is Erbil more expensive than Baghdad?

Erbil is 1.1% more expensive than Baghdad overall. Rent is 24.4% lower, groceries 11.4% more expensive, and restaurants 21.9% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Baghdad or Erbil?

Baghdad has a purchasing power index of 48.7 while Erbil has 47.7 (NYC = 100). Baghdad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇮🇶 Baghdad vs 🇮🇶 Erbil

2026

Erbil is 1.1% more expensive

Category	🇮🇶 Baghdad	🇮🇶 Erbil	Difference
Cost of Living	35.7	36.1	+1.1%
Rent	11.9	9.0	-24.4%
Groceries	31.7	35.3	+11.4%
Restaurants	32.0	39.0	+21.9%
Purchasing Power	48.7	47.7	-2.1%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇮🇶 Cost of Living in Baghdad

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🇮🇶 Cost of Living in Erbil

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🇮🇶 Should I Move to Baghdad?

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🇮🇶 Should I Move to Erbil?