In the initial stage of 2025, Kuwait boasts the second least expensive lifestyle compared to other countries in the Gulf region.
In the year 2025, Kuwait boasts a cost of living that is approximately 43% of New York City's, as revealed by the mid-year Numbeo Global Cost of Living Index. This index compares the cost of living in various cities worldwide, using New York City as a baseline, with a score of 100.
Kuwait's overall cost-of-living score is 42.9. This means that living in Kuwait is about 43% as expensive as in New York City. The index takes into account various factors such as rent, groceries, restaurants, and other daily expenses.
One of the key factors that contribute to Kuwait's lower cost of living is the rental market. Housing costs in Kuwait are 23% cheaper than in New York City, accounting for about one-third of total living costs.
Groceries and consumer prices in Kuwait are also significantly lower than in New York City, contributing to the overall score. For instance, a budget restaurant meal in Kuwait costs approximately 2.5 dinars per person, and a mid-range meal for two averages 15 dinars.
The average monthly income after tax for a family of four in Kuwait is about 870.9 dinars. This income, while lower than in New York City, is sufficient to cover the lower living expenses in Kuwait.
In comparison, cities such as New York, Reykjavik, Honolulu, San Francisco, Seattle, Singapore, Oslo, San Jose, and London are among the costliest cities worldwide. On the other hand, countries like India, Pakistan, Libya, Egypt, Paraguay, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Iran are among the cheapest.
High wages often balance the high living costs in expensive cities, but in Kuwait, the average monthly income after tax per person is approximately 948.5 dinars ($776), providing a comfortable living standard.
It's worth noting that Kuwait ranks as the second lowest cost-of-living country in the GCC region after Oman. This makes Kuwait an attractive destination for expatriates and residents seeking a lower cost of living compared to other cities worldwide.
In the realm of personal-finance, the average monthly income after tax per person in Kuwait is approximately $776, making it easier to maintain a comfortable standard of living despite the city's lower cost of living being about 43% of New York City's. With significant reductions in expenses across various business sectors, such as groceries and rent, Kuwait presents a favorable option for those seeking cost-effective solutions in finance management.
