Cost of Living in Yemen (2026) – Prices, Rent, Salary & Expenses

Yemen, located in the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula, is a country known for its rich history, ancient architecture, and diverse landscapes. Despite its ongoing challenges, Yemen remains home to resilient communities and a significant cultural heritage. Understanding the cost of living in Yemen is important for aid workers, expatriates, returning citizens, and families who are considering relocation for personal or professional reasons.

To explore more about the country, visit the Yemen country page.

Cost of Living in Yemen: Summary Table

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (YER)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$300 – $500	YER 75,000 – 125,000
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$800 – $1,500	YER 200,000 – 375,000
Rent Range	$100 – $400	YER 25,000 – 100,000
Food Cost (Monthly)	$120 – $250	YER 30,000 – 62,500
Transport Cost	$20 – $50	YER 5,000 – 12,500
Utilities	$20 – $60	YER 5,000 – 15,000
Healthcare	$10 – $40	YER 2,500 – 10,000
Education	$20 – $150	YER 5,000 – 37,500

Housing & Rent Prices in Yemen

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

1-bedroom in city center: $200 – $400 (YER 50,000 – 100,000)
1-bedroom outside center: $100 – $250 (YER 25,000 – 62,500)
3-bedroom city center: $300 – $600 (YER 75,000 – 150,000)
3-bedroom outside center: $150 – $350 (YER 37,500 – 87,500)

Buying Property (Optional)

City center: $800 – $1,500 per sq meter
Outside center: $500 – $1,000 per sq meter

Food & Grocery Costs

Milk (1 liter): $1 – $2 (YER 250 – 500)
Bread (loaf): $0.50 – $1 (YER 125 – 250)
Rice (1 kg): $0.80 – $1.50 (YER 200 – 375)
Eggs (12): $1 – $2 (YER 250 – 500)
Chicken (1 kg): $3 – $5 (YER 750 – 1,250)
Beef (1 kg): $5 – $8 (YER 1,250 – 2,000)
Potatoes (1 kg): $0.50 – $1 (YER 125 – 250)
Tomatoes (1 kg): $0.50 – $1 (YER 125 – 250)
Water (1.5L): $0.30 – $0.60 (YER 75 – 150)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

Local inexpensive meal: $2 – $4 (YER 500 – 1,000)
Mid-range restaurant for two: $10 – $20 (YER 2,500 – 5,000)
Fast food combo: $4 – $6 (YER 1,000 – 1,500)
Soft drink: $0.50 – $1 (YER 125 – 250)
Tea or coffee: $0.30 – $1 (YER 75 – 250)

Transportation Costs

One-way public transport: $0.20 – $0.50 (YER 50 – 125)
Monthly transport pass: $10 – $20 (YER 2,500 – 5,000)
Taxi (per km): $0.30 – $0.70 (YER 75 – 175)
Fuel per liter: $0.50 – $1 (YER 125 – 250)

Utility Costs

Electricity, water, garbage: $10 – $40 (YER 2,500 – 10,000)
Mobile data plan: $2 – $5 (YER 500 – 1,250)
Internet (home): $10 – $20 (YER 2,500 – 5,000)

Healthcare Costs

Doctor consultation: $5 – $15 (YER 1,250 – 3,750)
Specialist consultation: $10 – $25 (YER 2,500 – 6,250)
Private health insurance: $15 – $40 monthly
Basic medicine: $1 – $5 (YER 250 – 1,250)

Education Costs

Public schools: Low cost
Private schools: $20 – $80 per month (YER 5,000 – 20,000)
International schools: $100 – $300 per month

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: $10 – $25 (YER 2,500 – 6,250)
Movie ticket: $3 – $6 (YER 750 – 1,500)
Local activities: $5 – $15 (YER 1,250 – 3,750)
Family outing: $10 – $30 (YER 2,500 – 7,500)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Yemen is generally affordable for single individuals, especially when living in shared housing or local residential areas.

For Couples

Couples can comfortably manage expenses with combined incomes, particularly outside major cities.

For Families

Families will find essential goods affordable, though international schooling may raise costs.

For Students

Students benefit from low food and transport costs, making Yemen budget-friendly.

For Expats

Expat workers, especially in NGOs or development roles, often find Yemen inexpensive compared to other Middle Eastern countries.

Comparison With Other Countries

Yemen vs Saudi Arabia – Yemen is significantly cheaper in all categories.
Yemen vs Oman – Oman is more developed and more expensive.
Yemen vs Egypt – Similar cost of living, though Yemen can be slightly cheaper.

Pros & Cons of Living in Yemen

Pros

Very low cost of living
Strong community culture
Affordable housing and food
Rich cultural heritage

Cons

Limited infrastructure in some areas
Security concerns in specific regions
Restricted access to some services

Final Summary

Yemen offers a very low cost of living, making it affordable for families, aid workers, and individuals returning home. While challenges exist, everyday expenses such as food, rent, and transportation remain budget-friendly. For those working or living in stable regions, Yemen can provide a modest yet manageable lifestyle.

FAQs

Is Yemen expensive to live in?

No, Yemen has one of the lowest living costs in the Middle East.

How much money is enough to live comfortably in Yemen?

A single person can live on $300–$500 monthly, while families need around $800–$1,500.

What is the average rent in Yemen?

Rent typically ranges from $100 to $400 per month depending on location.

Is Yemen good for expats?

Yemen is affordable but best suited for expats working in development, humanitarian, or diplomatic roles.

Is Yemen cheaper than Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Yemen is significantly cheaper in housing, food, transportation, and daily expenses.