Is Erbil more expensive than Baghdad?

Erbil is 3.4% more expensive than Baghdad overall. Rent is 22.2% lower, groceries 12.9% more expensive, and restaurants 25.1% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Baghdad or Erbil?

Baghdad has a purchasing power index of 48.2 while Erbil has 45.2 (NYC = 100). Baghdad offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇮🇶 Baghdad vs 🇮🇶 Erbil

2026

Erbil is 3.4% more expensive

Category	🇮🇶 Baghdad	🇮🇶 Erbil	Difference
Cost of Living	35.3	36.5	+3.4%
Rent	11.7	9.1	-22.2%
Groceries	31.0	35.0	+12.9%
Restaurants	31.9	39.9	+25.1%
Purchasing Power	48.2	45.2	-6.2%

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?