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Study in Azerbaijan: Housing & Living Costs

Azerbaijan has a high cost of living compared to many Russian cities as well as many cities in its Middle Eastern neighbors. But the cost of living is still lower than in most other countries with a comparable standard of education, like Italy and Israel. As the oil and tech industries are so huge in Azerbaijan, poverty is relatively rare.

Sep 22, 2020

Azerbaijan has a high cost of living compared to many Russian cities as well as many cities in its Middle Eastern neighbors. But the cost of living is still lower than in many other countries with a comparable standard of education, like Italy and Israel. As the oil and tech industries are so huge in Azerbaijan, poverty is relatively rare.

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The currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). It can be difficult to find the Manat outside of Azerbaijan, so take US Dollars or Euros with you and exchange them once there. 

As most students live and study in Baku, these costs will reflect the capital. Some average living costs are (in AZN and USD):

  • Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): 600AZN ($350)
  • Utilities (monthly average): 75AZN ($45)
  • Monthly public transport pass: 20AZN ($11)
  • Meal (inexpensive restaurant): 10AZN ($6)
  • Coffee: 4AZN ($2.35)
  • Milk (1 liter): 1.80AZN ($1.05)
  • Vegetables (1kg): 2AZN ($1.15)
  • Eggs (dozen): 2.10AZN ($1.25)
  • Water (1.5 liters bottled) 0.85AZN ($0.50) *
  • Beef (1kg): 12.35AZN ($7.25)
  • Vodka (bottle): 4AZN ($2.35)
  • Bread (loaf): 0.50AZN ($0.30)

*You’ll need to factor bottled water into your budget as it’s not safe to drink the tap water in Azerbaijan. It’s cleaner in Baku than elsewhere, but it’s still not drinkable. 

The average cost of living in Azerbaijan is 745AZN ($440) excluding rent. Rent is usually counted as a separate cost. 

baku center at dusk

Azerbaijan is certainly more affordable than many other study abroad destinations, but it’s not as inexpensive as its neighbor Georgia. 

Homes for international students are normally provided through dorms arranged by your school or by landlords vetted and approved by your school. Your school will guide you through the process of finding a place to live once you’ve been admitted to a program. Trying to find a private rental will be extremely difficult unless you speak excellent Azerbaijani or Russian. 

Healthcare is generally of a good standard in Azerbaijan, although it is more limited outside of Baku. However, it’s open only to Azeri citizens and long-term residents. As an international student, you’ll need health insurance. This is why you need to provide proof of insurance during the visa/permit application process.

In Baku, bank cards, both swipe and chip-and-pin, are widely accepted. However, if you’re paying in a small shop or convenience store, you’ll need to use cash. Bank cards aren’t widely accepted outside of Baku. You’ll need to be sure to take all the cash you’ll need with you should you leave the capital as ATMs are few and far between outside of Baku.

Study in Azerbaijan

Want an overview of Azerbaijan? Do you want to know why it's called the Land of Fire? Do you want to find out more about its unusual culture. The section gives you an oversight of all you need to know.

Education in Azerbaijan

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Azerbaijan? Azerbaijan is a good destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, reasonable fees and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Azerbaijan!

Student Visas & Permits

Do you need a visa to enter Azerbaijan to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. 

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Azerbaijan can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Azerbaijan, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.

Language & Culture

Azerbaijan is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! We also talk about how to stay safe in Azerbaijan in this section.

Application Process

Learn more about how to apply to Azeri schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Azerbaijan? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Azerbaijan today!

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.