Cost of Living in Karakol - Updated Prices & Insights

Solo nomad: Estimated monthly costs are $220 (excluding rent), and $443 including rent.

Family of 3: Estimated monthly costs are $487 (excluding rent), and $870 including rent.

Meal at Budget Restaurant

$2.25 KGS 197

$1.69 KGS 148

$2.81 KGS 246

Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range

$9.29 KGS 812

Cappuccino

$1.69 KGS 148

Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.59 KGS 51.6

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.28 KGS 24.26

Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$1.15 KGS 101

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.69 KGS 147

Milk (1 liter)

$0.72 KGS 63.3

White Bread (500g)

$0.24 KGS 21.02

Rice (white) (1kg)

$1.35 KGS 118

Eggs

$1.68 KGS 147

Local Cheese (1kg)

$6.93 KGS 606

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

$4.11 KGS 359

Beef Round Steak (1kg)

$5.62 KGS 491

Apples (1kg)

$0.83 KGS 72.7

Banana (1kg)

$1.41 KGS 123

Tomato (1kg)

$1.17 KGS 102

Potato (1kg)

$0.59 KGS 51.8

Lettuce (1 head)

$0.35 KGS 30.75

Water (1.5 liter bottle)

$0.55 KGS 48.29

Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)

$1.8 KGS 157

$1.74 KGS 153

$1.86 KGS 162

Wine (Bottle)

$5.24 KGS 458

Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)

$1.16 KGS 101

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$2.33 KGS 204

One-way Ticket (Public Transport)

$0.22 KGS 18.82

$0.18 KGS 16

$0.25 KGS 21.65

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

$1.28 KGS 112

$1.13 KGS 98.7

$1.42 KGS 124

Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)

$38.9 KGS 3,401

SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)

$4.31 KGS 377

$3.45 KGS 301

$5.18 KGS 453

Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)

$9.54 KGS 834

Gym Membership (Monthly)

$15.34 KGS 1,341

$13.63 KGS 1,192

$17.04 KGS 1,490

Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)

$90.2 KGS 7,889

Men's Leather Business Shoes

$34.59 KGS 3,024

1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$225 KGS 19.7K

1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$175 KGS 15.3K

3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$287 KGS 25.1K

3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$282 KGS 24.6K

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

Last update: December 1, 2025

Digital Nomad Cost of Living Index

City tags:

⛩️ Asia

Cost of Living in Karakol - Frequently Asked Questions

For many travelers and expats, Karakol offers a balanced value proposition. Cost of Living in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan is approachable thanks to modest housing options, plentiful local markets, and inexpensive everyday goods compared with larger cities. You will find affordable guesthouses and small apartments, flexible lengths of stay, and plenty of free outdoor activities that stretch budgets without sacrificing quality. The town blends traditional charm with modern conveniences, and safety is solid enough to explore by foot at night. Digital nomads appreciate reliable cafe Wi-Fi and a friendly, helpful community. Tip: Start with a short stay to test value and fit.

Daily life centers on practicality: a simple apartment, reliable groceries, and frequent markets nearby. Housing options range from guesthouses to small flats, with flexibility for short or longer stays. Food is easy on the budget thanks to markets, bakeries, and casual eateries that showcase seasonal produce and regional staples. Getting around relies on walking, marshrutkas, and short taxi rides to reach surrounding sights. Co-working spaces exist in town centers, and errands stay manageable in a walkable layout. Karakol, Kyrgyzstan living cost stays friendly for steady work, local friendships, and weekend adventures. Tip: Build a lightweight packing list to reduce recurring shopping needs.

Quality of life hinges on pacing, access to nature, and reliable services. A practical budgeting frame is to allocate core needs (housing, meals, transit) first, then build in experiences like markets, museums, and day trips to the lake. Seasonal shifts influence what you cook, how you travel, and which outdoor activities are welcoming; winters bring quiet streets and cozy cafes, summers invite hikes and lake trips. Neighborhood fit matters: the old town centers you near markets and cafes, while newer quarters offer larger spaces and calmer evenings. Tip: Set a flexible plan that adapts to season and energy levels.