Athens vs Baghdad: Cost of Living Comparison
Athens and Baghdad offer vastly different economic and lifestyle profiles. Athens serves as a developed European capital with a high quality of life and structured infrastructure, while Baghdad remains a city in transition, offering a significantly lower cost of basic goods but with different challenges regarding safety premiums and infrastructure reliability.
Is Athens more expensive than Baghdad?
In general, the cost of living in Athens is approximately 35% to 45% higher than in Baghdad. While consumer prices are higher in the Greek capital, the local purchasing power in Athens is nearly 60% higher than in Baghdad. This suggests that while goods cost more in Athens, the average salary goes much further in terms of maintaining a stable standard of living compared to the Iraqi capital.
Housing and Real Estate
Rent in Athens is typically 20% to 30% more expensive than in Baghdad for comparable central locations. A one-bedroom apartment in central Athens averages roughly $750 USD per month, while a similar unit in a secure, desirable district of Baghdad costs approximately $550 USD. However, outside the city center, Baghdad's prices drop more sharply than those in Athens. Property prices per square meter in Athens are significantly higher, reflecting its status as a stable EU real estate market.
Groceries and Dining Out
Grocery prices in Athens are about 15% higher than in Baghdad. Local markets in Baghdad offer extremely affordable produce and staples, whereas Athens provides a wider variety of imported European goods at a premium. Dining out shows a larger gap: a mid-range three-course meal for two in Athens costs around $55 USD, compared to roughly $35 USD in Baghdad. However, Athens offers a more diverse range of budget 'street food' options like souvlaki that rival Baghdad’s affordable local eateries.
Transportation and Fuel
Transportation costs highlight a massive divergence. Fuel in Baghdad is heavily subsidized, with prices often 75% lower than in Athens, where gasoline is among the most expensive in Europe at over $2.00 USD per liter. Conversely, Athens boasts a sophisticated public transit system including a metro, trams, and buses with a monthly pass costing about $32 USD. Baghdad lacks a comprehensive public transit network, making residents heavily reliant on private vehicles or taxis, which can increase the total monthly transit spend despite low fuel costs.
Lifestyle and Utilities
Utilities in Athens (electricity, water, heating) are significantly more expensive, averaging $220 USD per month for a standard apartment compared to roughly $120 USD in Baghdad. However, Baghdad residents often face the additional cost of private neighborhood generators due to grid instability. Internet service in Athens is both faster and cheaper than in Baghdad. Entertainment, such as cinema tickets and gym memberships, is generally 20-30% more expensive in Athens.
How to get from Athens to Baghdad
There are currently no direct flights between Athens International Airport (ATH) and Baghdad International Airport (BGW). The most efficient travel routes involve a connection in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines or Pegasus) or Amman (via Royal Jordanian). Total travel time typically ranges between 6 and 10 hours depending on the layover duration.
The Verdict: Athens or Baghdad?
For digital nomads and expats seeking stability, high-speed internet, and a vibrant cultural scene, Athens is the superior choice despite the higher price tag. Baghdad offers a much lower cost of living but is currently better suited for professionals in specific sectors (NGOs, energy, or government) who have security and housing provided. For families, Athens offers significantly better access to healthcare and international schooling.
Borderly AI