Is Baghdad more expensive than Erbil?

Baghdad is 3.3% cheaper than Erbil overall. Rent is 28.6% higher, groceries 11.4% cheaper, and restaurants 20.1% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Erbil or Baghdad?

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

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇮🇶 Erbil vs 🇮🇶 Baghdad

2026

Baghdad is 3.3% cheaper

Category	🇮🇶 Erbil	🇮🇶 Baghdad	Difference
Cost of Living	36.5	35.3	-3.3%
Rent	9.1	11.7	+28.6%
Groceries	35.0	31.0	-11.4%
Restaurants	39.9	31.9	-20.1%
Purchasing Power	45.2	48.2	+6.6%

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 Erbil

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🇮🇶 Cost of Living in Baghdad

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🇮🇶 Should I Move to Erbil?

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🇮🇶 Should I Move to Baghdad?