Cost of Living in Amman

Introduction to Amman

Amman, Jordan’s capital, is in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, and Israel. It sits on rolling hills in the northwest of the country. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F), while winter can see lows of 5°C (41°F), with occasional snowfall.

Economy and Employment

Jordan’s economy is service-oriented, with banking, tourism, and information technology as key sectors. The country faces economic challenges such as high unemployment and public debt, but it has a growing focus on innovation. Major employers include the Arab Bank, Hikma Pharmaceuticals, and a burgeoning tech industry. Amman’s economy is stable, but regional instability can affect growth.

Immigration Requirements

To work in Amman, expats need a work permit and a residence visa, typically sponsored by their employer. The process can take several weeks. Professionals in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering find the process smoother, while lower-skilled workers may face more hurdles.

Job Market and Opportunities

Amman offers opportunities in finance, healthcare, education, and IT. Jordan’s developing tech scene is attracting foreign investment. Salaries in Amman vary widely: high-skilled expats in finance and IT earn competitive salaries, while lower-skilled jobs pay less. The work culture emphasizes relationships and trust, with career growth often tied to personal networks.

Cost of Living in Amman

Amman is moderately priced compared to Western cities but is considered expensive for the region. Below are typical costs compared to other cities:

• Alcohol and Tobacco: Expensive due to high taxes, especially for imported products.
• Clothing: Mid-range but cheaper than in Europe.
• Communication: Internet and mobile plans are affordable, with internet packages averaging around $30 per month.
• Education: International schools are costly, with tuition ranging from $7,000 to $20,000 per year.
• Furniture and Appliances: Imported items are pricey, but local products are reasonable.
• Groceries: Cheaper than in Western countries, but imported goods come at a premium.
• Healthcare: Private healthcare is expensive without insurance; public hospitals offer lower costs but longer waiting times.
• Housing: Rental prices are high, especially in desirable areas like Abdoun, with a two-bedroom apartment costing between $700 and $1,500 per month.
• Personal Care: Affordable, with services like haircuts and gym memberships reasonably priced.
• Recreation and Culture: Cinema tickets and dining out are mid-range but affordable compared to Europe.
• Transport: Public transportation is limited, so most expats rely on cars or taxis. Fuel is inexpensive, but owning a car can be costly due to import taxes.

Expensive items in Amman include alcohol, tobacco, and imported goods. Affordable items include transportation, groceries, and personal care services.

Quality of Life

Amman offers a good quality of life with modern infrastructure, but it comes with challenges. The city is relatively safe, but traffic congestion and pollution are downsides. Jordan is politically stable, and Amman is often described as peaceful. It is a family-friendly city with parks, malls, and cafes, making it a comfortable place to live.

Culture and Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business circles. Jordan is a mix of traditions and modernity, with Islam playing a central role in daily life. Hospitality is a core value, and locals are known to be welcoming to foreigners. Social etiquette is conservative, especially in dress and behavior in public spaces.

Healthcare

Amman boasts quality healthcare, especially in private hospitals. Medical tourism is common, with many coming for affordable yet high-standard treatment. Expats typically need private health insurance. Public healthcare is available but less attractive due to longer wait times. Specialist doctors are readily available, and many are trained abroad.

Safety and Security

Amman is a safe city with low crime rates, especially compared to other Middle Eastern cities. The political situation is stable, and the rule of law is strong. Petty crime exists but is not rampant. Expats should be aware of regional instability but feel secure living in Amman. Emergency services are responsive, and the city is equipped to handle minor natural disasters like flash floods.

Residential Areas for Expats

Popular expat neighborhoods include Abdoun, Sweifieh, and Jabal Amman. These areas are close to international schools, embassies, and amenities like restaurants and malls. Abdoun, in particular, is known for its luxury apartments and villa-style homes.

Education and International Schools

Amman offers several international schools with curricula including the International Baccalaureate (IB) and British systems. Reputable schools include Amman Baccalaureate School and the International Academy of Amman. Admission can be competitive, with application processes starting early.

Social and Recreational Life

Amman has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues. Sports clubs, gyms, and community groups are common. For nature lovers, Amman’s proximity to the Dead Sea and Petra makes weekend getaways easy. The expat community is active, with events hosted regularly by embassies and international organizations.

Transportation

Public transportation is underdeveloped, and most residents rely on cars or taxis. Traffic can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Amman’s road network is modern, and the airport provides connectivity to Europe, the Gulf, and beyond.

What Makes Amman Unique?

Amman’s balance of ancient history and modern living stands out. The city’s Roman ruins and vibrant markets coexist with luxury malls and international cuisine. Jordan’s culture of hospitality makes it welcoming for expats.

Overall Cost of Living

Amman is moderately priced but can be expensive in certain areas, particularly housing and education. However, groceries, healthcare, and personal care services are affordable compared to Western countries.

Use Xpatulator’s Cost of Living Calculators and Tools for informed decision-making about the cost of living in Amman, Jordan, and the salary/allowance package required to maintain your standard of living.