Iran🇮🇷
At a Glance
How Iran compares across key indices
Cost of Living
22 vs NYC
100 = NYC
Safety Index
49/100
Healthcare
53/100
Quality of Life
90/200
Climate
69/100
Cost of Living
How far your money goes in Iran
Cost of Living
22
100 = NYC baseline
Rent Index
7
100 = NYC rent
Groceries
21
100 = NYC groceries
Restaurant Prices
16
100 = NYC dining
City Costs Comparison
Malayer
Cheapest$160/mo
Tehran
$754/mo
Safety & Crime
Moderate RiskHow safe residents feel in Iran — based on surveys of people living there
Safety Index
49/100
Crime Index
51/100
Lower is better
Crime Trend
72/100
Crime perceived as increasing
Walking Safety
29 point drop from day to night
Problem Severity
0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem
What Residents Worry About
Based on 958 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.
Cities in Iran
Iran has 2 cities with Numbeo data. Monthly costs for a single person range from $160 in Malayer to $754 in Tehran. Tehran leads on safety, scoring 43/100. Tehran ranks highest for quality of life at 67/200.
Malayer
$160/mo
Tehran
43/100
Tehran
67/200
Tehran
53/100
| City | Monthly Cost | Safety | Quality of Life | Healthcare | Pollution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malayer | $160 | — | — | — | — |
| Tehran | $754 | 43/100 | 67/200 | 53/100 | 80 |
Data from Numbeo. Monthly cost estimates are for a single person including rent. Pollution: lower score = cleaner air. Click column headers to sort.
Compare Cities Side by Side
Detailed comparison of cost of living, safety, and quality of life
Healthcare
Healthcare system overview for Iran
Healthcare Index
53/100
Quality Breakdown
How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality
Based on 392 survey responses
Insurance Coverage
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Environment
PollutedAir quality, water, and environmental conditions in Iran
Pollution Index
75/100
Lower is better
Environmental Quality
Concerns
0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern
Based on 623 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.
Transport & Commute
How people get around in Iran
Average One-Way Commute
47minutes
Long
Traffic Index
214
Heavy congestion
Inefficiency
234
Time wasted in traffic
CO2 Emissions
7.0kg/trip
How People Commute
Based on 255 survey responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about living in Iran, answered with data
What is the cost of living in Iran?
Iran has a cost of living index of 22 relative to New York City (100). It is significantly cheaper than the US. Monthly costs for a single person start around $160 in Malayer and reach $754 in Tehran.
What is the cheapest city in Iran for expats?
Malayer is the most affordable city in Iran with Numbeo data, with estimated monthly costs of $160 for a single person including rent. Tehran is the next most affordable at $754/mo.
Is Iran safe for expats?
Iran has a safety index of 49/100, making it moderately safe for expats and travellers. Among cities with data, Tehran scores highest on safety at 43/100.
What is the best city in Iran for expats and digital nomads?
Tehran ranks highest for quality of life in Iran, scoring 67/200 on Numbeo's quality of life index. Monthly costs there run around $754/mo for a single person. For budget-conscious expats, Malayer offers the lowest monthly costs at $160/mo.
How good is healthcare in Iran?
Iran scores 53/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it adequate by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.
Is Iran cheaper than the United States?
Yes. Iran's cost of living is roughly 78% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 93% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.
What is the air quality and pollution like in Iran?
Iran has a pollution index of 75/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.
Before You Go
Your pre-departure checklist for Iran
Plan Your Move
Escape Plan Quiz
Find your best-fit country based on budget, climate, safety, and lifestyle priorities.
Salary Calculator
See what your income is actually worth after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Compare Countries
Side-by-side breakdown of cost of living, safety, healthcare, and more.
90-Day Move Planner
Your personalized countdown checklist — visas, banking, housing, and logistics.
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Set Up International Banking
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Get Connected
eSIM, VPN, and reliable internet — sorted before you land.
Book Your First Accommodation
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Find Flights
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