Is Erbil more expensive than Baghdad?

Erbil is 1.7% more expensive than Baghdad overall. Rent is 13.2% lower, groceries 11.4% more expensive, and restaurants 13.6% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Baghdad or Erbil?

Baghdad has a purchasing power index of 52.5 while Erbil has 48.6 (NYC = 100). Baghdad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇮🇶 Baghdad vs 🇮🇶 Erbil

2026

Erbil is 1.7% more expensive

Category	🇮🇶 Baghdad	🇮🇶 Erbil	Difference
Cost of Living	34.5	35.1	+1.7%
Rent	10.6	9.2	-13.2%
Groceries	29.9	33.3	+11.4%
Restaurants	32.3	36.7	+13.6%
Purchasing Power	52.5	48.6	-7.4%

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?