Cost of Living in Karakol - Updated Prices & Insights

Solo nomad: Estimated monthly costs are $229 (excluding rent), and $436 including rent.

Family of 3: Estimated monthly costs are $538 (excluding rent), and $849 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

$8.9 KGS 778

Cappuccino

$1.76 KGS 154

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

$0.55 KGS 48.15

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.3 KGS 26.49

Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$1.12 KGS 97.7

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.7 KGS 148

Milk (1 liter)

$0.72 KGS 62.8

White Bread (500g)

$0.22 KGS 19.11

Rice (white) (1kg)

$1.41 KGS 123

Eggs

$1.62 KGS 142

Local Cheese (1kg)

$7.02 KGS 614

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

$3.91 KGS 342

Beef Round Steak (1kg)

$5.63 KGS 492

Apples (1kg)

$0.83 KGS 73

Banana (1kg)

$1.41 KGS 123

Tomato (1kg)

$1.17 KGS 103

Potato (1kg)

$0.59 KGS 51.4

Lettuce (1 head)

$0.33 KGS 28.73

Water (1.5 liter bottle)

$0.55 KGS 47.94

Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)

$1.82 KGS 159

$1.77 KGS 155

$1.88 KGS 164

Wine (Bottle)

$5.28 KGS 461

Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)

$1.17 KGS 102

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$2.27 KGS 198

One-way Ticket (Public Transport)

$0.18 KGS 15.96

$0.16 KGS 13.57

$0.21 KGS 18.36

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

$1.3 KGS 114

$1.15 KGS 101

$1.44 KGS 126

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

$39.18 KGS 3,426

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

$4.34 KGS 379

$3.47 KGS 303

$5.21 KGS 455

Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)

$9.84 KGS 861

Gym Membership (Monthly)

$15.72 KGS 1,374

$13.97 KGS 1,221

$17.46 KGS 1,526

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

$92 KGS 8,047

Men's Leather Business Shoes

$34.86 KGS 3,048

1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$232 KGS 20.3K

1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$173 KGS 15.1K

3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$286 KGS 25K

3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$284 KGS 24.9K

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

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.