Last update: Oct 2026 Syria ⭐ Capital 1.4M

Cost of Living in Damascus

For one person, living costs in Damascus are estimated at $869 a month, including rent and utilities – 36% above the national average. Rent and utilities take more than a third of the total.

Monthly Cost of Living

How much you'll spend in Damascus

Real prices from locals and on-the-ground checks – rent, groceries, transit and the daily extras. Here's what a month in Damascus actually costs, broken down by who's living it.

Living costs for one person come to about $869 monthly including rent, or $543 excluding housing.

$869 /mo

Estimated monthly costs for a couple: $1,412 with rent, or $944 without housing.

$1,412 /mo

Monthly costs for a family of three come to about $1,954 including rent, or $1,345 for daily expenses alone.

$1,954 /mo

Damascus sits 31–36% below the global median across household types. Within Asia, costs are 18% below average – relatively affordable for the region.

Currency
Do you live in Damascus? Add cost details
🍽 Eating Out
Cost
Range
Meal at Budget Restaurant
$10.19 SYP 1,238
$8.15 SYP 991
$14.27 SYP 1,734
Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range
$42.87 SYP 5,209
$28.24 SYP 3,432
$101 SYP 12.3K
Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)
$6.87 SYP 835
$5.89 SYP 716
$6.87 SYP 835
Cappuccino
$3.75 SYP 455
$1.01 SYP 123
$6.06 SYP 736
Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.21 SYP 269
$1.97 SYP 239
$2.95 SYP 359
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.89 SYP 108
$0.52 SYP 63.3
$1.04 SYP 127
Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$2.05 SYP 249
$1.02 SYP 124
$6.15 SYP 747
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$4.03 SYP 489
$2.01 SYP 245
$7.05 SYP 856
🛒 Groceries & Markets
Cost
Range
Milk (1 liter)
$1.06 SYP 128
$0.59 SYP 72.0
$1.97 SYP 240
White Bread (500g)
$0.41 SYP 50.1
$0.15 SYP 18.79
$0.68 SYP 82.7
Rice (white) (1kg)
$1.52 SYP 184
$1.13 SYP 138
$3.45 SYP 419
Eggs
$1.62 SYP 197
$1.22 SYP 149
$2.45 SYP 297
Local Cheese (1kg)
$3.96 SYP 482
$2.72 SYP 331
$7.08 SYP 860
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$5.60 SYP 680
$2.85 SYP 346
$7.85 SYP 954
Beef Round Steak (1kg)
$13.69 SYP 1,664
$9.93 SYP 1,206
$19.85 SYP 2,413
Apples (1kg)
$1.06 SYP 129
$0.51 SYP 61.4
$2.02 SYP 245
Banana (1kg)
$1.37 SYP 166
$1.06 SYP 129
$2.95 SYP 358
Oranges (1kg)
$1.15 SYP 139
$0.39 SYP 47.26
$2.05 SYP 249
Tomato (1kg)
$1.05 SYP 128
$0.51 SYP 61.6
$1.48 SYP 180
Potato (1kg)
$0.79 SYP 96.2
$0.39 SYP 47.49
$1.03 SYP 125
Onion (1kg)
$0.79 SYP 96.5
$0.32 SYP 38.36
$1.02 SYP 124
Lettuce (1 head)
$0.40 SYP 49.16
$0.29 SYP 35.11
$0.67 SYP 81.9
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.62 SYP 75.2
$0.44 SYP 54.0
$0.97 SYP 117
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)
$2.81 SYP 342
$2.54 SYP 308
$3.05 SYP 370
Wine (Bottle)
$6.09 SYP 740
$4.08 SYP 496
$10.20 SYP 1,240
Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)
$1.06 SYP 128
$0.98 SYP 119
$1.20 SYP 146
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.84 SYP 345
$2.16 SYP 263
$3.40 SYP 413
🚌 Getting Around
Cost
Range
One-way Ticket (Public Transport)
$0.23 SYP 28.02
$0.10 SYP 12.74
$0.24 SYP 29.29
Public Transport Monthly Pass (Regular Price)
$9.85 SYP 1,198
$5.69 SYP 691
$24.64 SYP 2,994
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$1.02 SYP 124
$1.02 SYP 124
$1.96 SYP 238
Taxi (Normal Tariff) (1km)
$1.48 SYP 179
$0.49 SYP 59.0
$1.87 SYP 227
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
$7.72 SYP 938
$6.95 SYP 844
$10.04 SYP 1,220
Gasoline (1 liter)
$3.70 SYP 450
$1.12 SYP 137
$4.90 SYP 595
Midsize Hatchback 1.4l (Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, etc)
$14.8K SYP 1.8M
$13.8K SYP 1.7M
$15.8K SYP 1.9M
Compact Sedan 1.6l (Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, etc)
$19.5K SYP 2.4M
$17.3K SYP 2.1M
$20.4K SYP 2.5M
🧾 Monthly Utilities & Internet
Cost
Range
Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)
$138 SYP 16.8K
$84.0 SYP 10.2K
$178 SYP 21.6K
SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)
$9.86 SYP 1,198
$6.04 SYP 734
$20.48 SYP 2,488
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)
$45.41 SYP 5,518
$19.64 SYP 2,386
$98.2 SYP 11.9K
🎉 Sport & Entertainment
Cost
Range
Gym Membership (Monthly)
$27.67 SYP 3,363
$4.94 SYP 601
$59.3 SYP 7,206
Tennis Court (1 Hour on Weekend)
$8.68 SYP 1,055
$7.15 SYP 868
$10.21 SYP 1,241
Cinema Ticket
$5.56 SYP 675
$5.05 SYP 614
$7.07 SYP 859
🧸 Childcare & Education
Cost
Range
Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)
$66.4 SYP 8,068
$24.90 SYP 3,025
$299 SYP 36.3K
International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)
$1,758 SYP 213.6K
$911 SYP 110.7K
$2,468 SYP 299.8K
👕👟 Clothing & Footwear
Cost
Range
Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)
$28.98 SYP 3,522
$10.13 SYP 1,231
$76.0 SYP 9,235
Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)
$40.38 SYP 4,907
$12.11 SYP 1,472
$80.8 SYP 9,815
Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)
$59.4 SYP 7,215
$32.65 SYP 3,968
$99.0 SYP 12.0K
Men's Leather Business Shoes
$59.2 SYP 7,197
$35.54 SYP 4,318
$102 SYP 12.3K
🏠 Accommodation & Living
Cost
Range
1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$525 SYP 63.8K
$351 SYP 42.7K
$903 SYP 109.8K
1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$188 SYP 22.8K
$80.8 SYP 9,815
$404 SYP 49.1K
3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$834 SYP 101.3K
$593 SYP 72.1K
$1,582 SYP 192.2K
3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$471 SYP 57.3K
$303 SYP 36.8K
$707 SYP 86.0K
Buy Apartment in City Center (m2)
$1,700 SYP 206.6K
$1,362 SYP 165.5K
$2,952 SYP 358.7K
Buy Apartment Outside City Center (m2)
$607 SYP 73.8K
$500 SYP 60.7K
$682 SYP 82.8K
💵 Salaries & Financials
Cost
Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$72.9 SYP 8,855
-
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate (Annual %)
14.25
11
18

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update: October 11, 2026

Monthly budget structure
Share of the monthly basket for one person, rent included.
Damascus $869
Monthly Utilities & Internet
$194
Accommodation & Living
$188
Eating Out
$178
Groceries & Markets
$168
Clothing & Footwear
$85
Sport & Entertainment
$39
Getting Around
$19

Cost Breakdown

Expect to pay about $525 for a central one-bedroom, or $188 outside the center. At 721% of the average salary ($72.9), housing is the biggest financial pressure.

Average take-home pay sits at $72.9, while typical expenses reach $869. The gap means tight budgeting for locals, though expats with foreign income can live comfortably.

Expect to spend about $168 monthly on groceries. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant costs roughly $43.00 for two – above the Asian average of $36.00.

Public transport is priced at around $9.85 per month – among the cheapest in Asia (average $33.00).

Cost Highlights

Damascus has the 9th most expensive gasoline worldwide

Damascus has the 5th lowest average monthly net salary in Asia

Internet is more expensive than 93% of cities in Asia

Good to know
🕒 Local time
11:35 11:35 AM
🌤 Weather
👥 Population
1,414,913 Capital
💱 Currency
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USD, EUR to SYP – Syrian Pound Converter

Syrian Pound exchange rates as of October 17, 2026: 1 USD = 122 SYP (1,000 SYP = 8.23 USD). 1 EUR = 137 SYP (1,000 SYP = 7.31 EUR).

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Damascus Median Internet Speeds (Updated March 2026)

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Cost of Living in Damascus - Frequently Asked Questions
How affordable is Damascus for travelers, expats, and digital nomads, and who tends to get good value there?
Damascus offers a surprisingly favorable balance for travelers, expats, and digital nomads who prioritize local options. Food from markets and casual eateries is affordable when you stay in traditional neighborhoods, and public transport covers daily needs at low cost. Housing can range from simple shared rooms to modest apartments in quieter districts, with prices typically more forgiving than in larger capitals. Cost of Living in Damascus, Syria is shaped by currency dynamics and import availability, so plan for variability and seasonality. Still, many essentials remain accessible for a lean routine. Tip: Start with short stays to test neighborhoods before committing to longer leases.
What does daily life look like for housing, meals, transport and errands in Damascus?
Daily life centers on practicality and local options. When you search for housing, expect a mix of traditional apartments and newer builds in Mezzeh Old City or quieter outlying neighborhoods; negotiations can help you land fair rents. Food options range from busy markets with fresh produce to affordable street food and casual cafes. Groceries remain reasonably priced if you favor local goods. Transport often relies on shared taxis and buses; walking works well in dense districts, though summers push you toward air conditioned options. Co working spaces exist in several pockets for remote work, with reliable connectivity in established districts. Damascus, Syria living cost will influence rent choices and daily outings, so budget with flexibility. Tip: map a recurring weekly routine to cut trips.
How can you maximize quality of life and budget wisely while choosing a neighborhood in Damascus?
Quality of life hinges on finding a neighborhood that matches your pace and access to essentials. Use a simple budgeting framework: anchor housing first, then groceries and utilities, and keep a contingency for transport and activities. Seasonality matters: summers are hot, so plan for cooling and hydration; winters are milder but can affect heating needs and energy use. Neighborhood fit matters: Old City for walkability and culture, Mezzeh for expat friendly services, or newer districts for smoother logistics. Practical tips for saving include shopping at local markets, joining a shared workspace, and negotiating longer term leases. Tip: choose a base that minimizes daily travel and maximizes access to your daily needs.
Is rent in Damascus too high relative to local incomes?
With 721% of the average paycheck going to rent, Damascus is on the expensive side for housing. Many locals cope by sharing apartments, moving to outer neighborhoods, or downsizing to keep things manageable.
What are typical monthly expenses for a single person in Damascus?
All in, Damascus runs about $869 monthly with rent, or $543 without it. These numbers assume a moderate lifestyle – comfortable but not lavish. Choosing a cheaper neighborhood and cooking at home are the easiest ways to spend less.
Does the average salary in Damascus cover rent and expenses?
An average salary of $72.9 technically covers the $869 monthly cost of living in Damascus, but just barely. There's little room for surprises – a rent hike, medical bill, or unexpected repair can throw things off quickly at this income level.
What does a one-bedroom apartment cost in Damascus per month?
Where you live in Damascus makes all the difference. Central one-bedrooms cost about $525; commute-friendly outer districts come in around $188. Overall, the market runs from $188 to $525 depending on size, location, and apartment condition.
Is public transport affordable in Damascus?
A monthly transit pass in Damascus runs about $9.85, with good coverage across residential and business areas. It's entirely feasible to live car-free here for daily commuting and errands.
What should I budget for groceries in Damascus?
At about $168 monthly, food costs in Damascus sit in moderate territory. A mix of local markets and supermarkets covers most needs at fair prices, and most residents eat well without having to pinch pennies.
Does $2,000 cover living expenses in Damascus?
Living on $2,000 in Damascus means careful planning, since monthly costs average $869. It works with a cheap apartment and disciplined spending, but expect trade-offs on where you live, how often you eat out, and entertainment.
What are the pros and cons of living in Damascus?
Damascus offers genuinely appealing day-to-day living. Residents value wellness scene, great local cuisine, and at around $869 per month, it's accessible to a broad range of incomes. Most people find the cost-to-quality balance sustainable long-term.
How much can you save per month in Damascus?
Monthly expenses in Damascus run around $869, so putting money aside takes more than $1,304 in income. Keeping housing costs low and avoiding lifestyle creep are the keys to building a decent savings rate here.
Can budget travelers get by in Damascus?
Budget travel in Damascus works but takes effort. Hostels, street food, and local restaurants keep daily costs reasonable. All-in monthly expenses run about $869 for residents – backpackers can do less with some planning.

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