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Living Expenses in Bahrain 2026

Bahraini Dinar Currency Money Bills And Calculator Close Up

Bahrain, a small but prosperous island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offers a high standard of living at relatively moderate costs compared to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries such as the UAE and Qatar. Plan wisely and apply for Bahrain eVisa early for a smooth relocation. While its capital, Manama, is the most expensive city, other cities like Riffa, Muharraq, Isa Town, and Hamad Town offer more affordable living options.

Below is a general overview of the cost of living in Bahrain, covering housing, food, transportation, utilities, personal care, and entertainment.

Housing Costs in Bahrain

Housing costs in Bahrain vary widely depending on location and whether the accommodation is in a luxury high-rise or a more traditional residential area.

Housing by Location

Manama (Expensive Areas: Seef, Juffair, Amwaj, Adliya)

  • 3-bedroom apartment (high-end building): 800 to 1,500 BHD / month
  • 1-bedroom apartment (luxury tower): 350 to 550 BHD / month
  • Studio apartment (city centre, modern): 250 to 450 BHD / month

Riffa, Muharraq, Isa Town & Hamad Town (More Affordable Areas)

  • 3-bedroom apartment: 700 to 1,200 BHD / month
  • 1-bedroom apartment: 180 to 350 BHD / month
  • Studio apartment: 150 to 280 BHD / month

Utilities & Internet (Kingdom-wide)

  • Electricity, water, cooling (3-bedroom apartment): 40 to 80 BHD / month (can peak near 100 BHD in summer)
  • High-speed home internet (80 to 100 Mbps): 12 to 25 BHD / month

These figures reflect approximate cost ranges for 2025 to 2026. Actual expenses may vary by location, property type, and service provider.

1. Food & Grocery Costs

Bahrain offers a mix of affordable local produce and imported goods, which can be expensive. Dining out is generally cheaper compared to Western countries.

Groceries

  • Milk (1 liter): 0.5 to 0.9 BHD
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): 2.3 to 3.3 BHD
  • Eggs (1 dozen): 1.0 to 1.7 BHD
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): 0.5 to 1.2 BHD
  • Apples (1 kg): 0.8 to 1.4 BHD
  • Local cheese (500 g): 2.0 to 3.5 BHD
  • Potatoes (1 kg): 0.3 to 0.7 BHD
  • Good quality wine (1 bottle): 7 to 12 BHD

Dining Out

  • Basic lunch in business district restaurant: 6 to 8 BHD
  • Fast food combo meal((McDonald’s, KFC, etc.)): 3 to 3.5 BHD
  • Mid-range restaurant, three-course meal for two: 20 to 35 BHD
  • Local Bahraini meal at casual restaurant: 2 to 5 BHD

2. Transportation Costs

Bahrain has affordable fuel prices and a limited public transport system, making owning a car the most convenient option.

Fuel & Public Transport

  • 1 litre of gasoline (95 / “Super”): 0.18 to 0.21 BHD
  • Monthly public bus pass (GO Monthly): 12 BHD
  • Taxi starting fare: 1.25 to 1.50 BHD
  • Taxi per kilometre (metered, est.): 0.40 to 0.80 BHD

Car Rental & Purchase

  • Car rental (monthly, basic sedan): 130 to 220 BHD
  • Toyota Corolla (new, base model): 7,200 to 9,000 BHD
  • Luxury SUV (Lexus RX, BMW X5, etc., new): 28,000 to 48,000 BHD

Costs shown are approximate for 2025 to 2026 and may vary by location, vehicle type, and service provider.

3. Personal Care & Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in Bahrain is high-quality, with both public and private hospitals offering a range of services.

Healthcare Costs

  • Doctor's consultation (private hospital, ~15 min): 10 to 30 BHD
  • Cold medicine for ~6 days (Panadol / Cold & Flu): 1.5 to 4 BHD
  • Antibiotics (12-dose course, common brands): 3 to 7 BHD
  • Basic private health insurance (local, per month): 5 to 25 BHD

Personal Care Costs

  • Shampoo (400 ml): 2.0 to 3.0 BHD
  • Deodorant (roll-on, 50 ml): 0.8 to 1.5 BHD
  • Haircut (men, standard barber): 2 to 4 BHD
  • Haircut (women, regular salon): 5 to 20 BHD
  • Gym membership (mid-range facility): 12 to 25 BHD

Costs are approximate and may vary depending on brand, salon type, and gym facility.

4. Entertainment & Leisure Costs

Bahrain has a vibrant nightlife, with dining, cinemas, and beach clubs being popular among residents.

Entertainment & Nightlife

  • Movie ticket (standard seat): 4.0 to 5.0 BHD
  • Concert ticket (best seats): 60 to 150+ BHD
  • Cocktail at a high-end bar: 6.0 to 9.0 BHD
  • Beer at a local pub (pint): 3.5 to 5.5 BHD
  • Italian dinner for two (with wine): 50 to 80 BHD

Luxury & Electronics

  • iPad Wi-Fi 128GB (new model): 140 to 240 BHD
  • 40 to 43-inch smart TV (Samsung / LG): 110 to 160 BHD

5. Education Costs (for Expats & Private Schools)

Bahrain has several international schools that follow American, British, IB, or Indian curricula.

  • Nursery/Preschool (monthly, private): BHD 120 to 350
  • International school tuition (primary, yearly): BHD 2,400 to 6,000
  • University tuition (private, per year): BHD 3,000 to 7,000

Important Note: Costs are approximate and vary by school.

The Cost of Living in Bahrain's Top Cities

Bahrain offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Gulf countries. However, the cost of living varies by city, with Manama the most expensive, while Riffa and Hamad Town offer more budget-friendly options.

1. The Cost of Living in Manama, The Capital City

Manama city skyline at night

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, offers a generally moderate cost of living compared to other Gulf cities. Here's an overview of typical expenses:

Housing: A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between $750 and $900 per month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from $1,000 to $1,750 per month.

Utilities: Monthly utilities for an 85m² apartment average around $120 to $200.

Internet: A 50 Mbps unlimited internet plan costs approximately $35 to $45 per month.

Education: International primary school tuition averages around $8,000 to $13,000 per year.

Here's a table summarizing the cost of living in Manama, Bahrain:

Overall Expenses (Excl. Rent): Bachelors: 220-380 BHD | Couples: 400-650 BHD | Families: 750-1,150 BHD
Accommodation: Bachelors: 200-350 BHD | Couples: 300-600 BHD | Families: 750-1,150 BHD
Food (Per Meal): Bachelors: 120-200 BHD | Couples: 220-350 BHD | Families: 550-1,000 BHD
Transportation: Bachelors: 30-60 BHD | Couples: 50-90 BHD | Families: 400-600 BHD
Utilities: Bachelors: 30-50 BHD | Couples: 60-90 BHD | Families: 80-120 BHD
Entertainment: Bachelors: 30-60 BHD | Couples: 50-100 BHD | Families: Not specified

Groceries

  • Milk (1 litre): $1.60 to $1.90
  • Bread (0.5 kg): $0.80 to $1.40
  • Eggs (dozen): $2.65 to $4.50
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): $5.30 to $7.50
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): $0.90 to $2.10
  • Apples (1 kg): $2.10 to $3.20
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $0.80 to $1.35

Dining Out

  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $7 to $9
  • Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $50 to $70
  • Fast food combo meal: $7 to $8.50
  • Domestic beer (0.5 litre): $7 to $13
  • Cappuccino: $4 to $7

Transportation

  • 1 litre of gasoline (95 / "Super"): 0.18 to 0.21 BHD
  • Monthly public bus pass (GO Monthly): 12 BHD
  • Taxi starting fare: 1.25 to 1.50 BHD
  • Taxi per kilometre (metered): 0.40 to 0.80 BHD
  • Car rental (monthly, basic sedan): 130 to 220 BHD
  • Toyota Corolla (new, base model): 7,200 to 9,000 BHD
  • Luxury SUV (Lexus RX, BMW X5, etc., new): 28,000 to 48,000 BHD

Alcohol & Tobacco

  • Wine (mid-priced, 750 mL bottle): $20 to $27
  • Imported beer (0.33 litre bottle): $3.50 to $4.50
  • Cigarettes (pack): $6 to $7

2. Cost of Living in Muharraq – A Mix of Tradition & Modernity

Here's a breakdown of the cost of living in Muharraq, Bahrain, categorised by expense type with lists of items and their price ranges in Bahraini Dinar (BHD):

Traditional Houses At Arad Fort On Muharraq Island Bahrain

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

  • 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): 220 to 380 BHD
  • 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre): 170 to 300 BHD
  • 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): 500 to 800 BHD
  • 3-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre): 380 to 650 BHD
  • Villas (varies by size & location): 600+ BHD

Food (Eating Out Per Meal)

  • Inexpensive Restaurant Meal: 1 to 5 BHD
  • Mid-Range Restaurant Meal (for 2 people): 15 to 40 BHD
  • Fast Food Combo Meal: 2.5 to 4 BHD
  • Coffee (Cappuccino): 1.5 to 3 BHD

Groceries (Basic Items)

  • Milk (1 Gallon): 1.8 to 3.8 BHD
  • Loaf of Fresh White Bread: 0.2 to 0.9 BHD
  • Eggs (12): 0.6 to 1.8 BHD
  • Water (1.5 L Bottle): 0.15 to 0.40 BHD
  • Rice (1 kg): 0.4 to 1.0 BHD
  • Chicken Fillets (1 kg): 1.5 to 3.5 BHD
  • Beef (1 kg): 2.5 to 5.0 BHD

Example Restaurant Items

  • Local Bahraini Breakfast (Balaleet): 1 to 2 BHD
  • Shawarma Sandwich: 0.8 to 1.5 BHD
  • Burger Meal: 2 to 4 BHD
  • Indian Curry Dish: 2 to 5 BHD
  • Seafood Platter (Mid-Range Restaurant): 15 to 30 BHD

Fruits & Vegetables (per kg, approx.)

Tomatoes: 0.3 to 0.8 BHD

Potatoes: 0.2 to 0.6 BHD

Onions: 0.25 to 0.7 BHD

Bananas: 0.5 to 1.2 BHD

Apples: 0.6 to 1.5 BHD

Transportation (Public & Taxis)

One-Way Bus Ticket: 0.30 to 0.40 BHD

Monthly Bus Pass: 12 to 15 BHD

Taxi Start Fare: 1.2 to 2.0 BHD

Taxi per KM (estimated): 0.4 to 0.8 BHD

Ride-sharing Apps (Uber, Careem): Similar / slightly higher than taxis

Driving Costs

Gasoline (1 Gallon): 0.75 to 0.85 BHD

Car Insurance (Annual, varies by car & coverage): 80 to 200+ BHD

Utilities (Monthly)

Basic Utilities (Elec., Water, Cooling, 915 sq ft): 35 to 60 BHD

Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited Data): 10 to 25 BHD

Mobile Phone (Monthly Plan, Calls + 10GB+ Data): 7.5 to 14 BHD

Entertainment & Leisure

Cinema Ticket: 3 to 5 BHD

Fitness Club Membership (Monthly): 15 to 60 BHD

Soft Drink / Juice: 1 to 2 BHD

Beers (licensed establishments): 2.5 to 5+ BHD

Cocktails (licensed establishments): 4+ BHD

Activities & Leisure

Museum Entry: 1 to 3 BHD

Water Park Day Pass: 10 to 25+ BHD

Bowling (Per Game): 2 to 4 BHD

3. Cost of Living in Riffa – A Balanced Lifestyle

Riffa offers a mix of affordability and modern living, making it a great choice for families and professionals. With mid-to-range rental prices and reasonable daily expenses, it provides a comfortable lifestyle without the high costs of Manama. The city balances residential tranquillity with access to shopping, dining, and essential services.

Riffa residential area at night

Food & Groceries - Riffa (2026 Costs)

Groceries
  • 500g boneless chicken breast: 0.90 to 1.40 BHD
  • 1 litre whole-fat milk: 0.50 to 0.85 BHD
  • 12 large eggs: 1.00 to 1.40 BHD
  • 1kg of tomatoes: 0.40 to 0.90 BHD
  • 500g local cheese: 1.50 to 3.00 BHD
  • 1kg apples: 0.80 to 1.50 BHD
  • 1kg potatoes: 0.30 to 0.60 BHD
  • Bread (Daily for 2): 0.20 to 0.50 BHD
  • Coca-Cola (2L): 0.80 to 1.00 BHD
  • Beer (0.5L Can/Bottle): 1.20 to 1.80 BHD
Dining Out
  • Basic lunchtime menu (business district): 3.00 to 5.00 BHD
  • Combo meal at a fast-food restaurant: 2.60 to 3.20 BHD
  • Beer (Pint in Bar): 3.50 to 5.50 BHD
  • 1 bottle of red table wine (good quality): 6.50 to 12.00 BHD

Housing & Utilities

Rent (85 m² furnished apartment, expensive area): 280 to 380 BHD

Rent (85 m² furnished apartment, normal area): 180 to 250 BHD

Rent (45 m² furnished studio, expensive area): 160 to 200 BHD

Rent (45 m² furnished studio, normal area): 130 to 160 BHD

Utilities (electricity, water, cooling for 85 m² apartment): 70 to 120 BHD

Utilities (electricity, water, cooling for 45 m² studio): 35 to 60 BHD

Internet (5G / Fibre, unlimited data): 11 to 17 BHD

Household Items

40–43" Flat-Screen Smart TV: 70 to 140 BHD

Microwave (800/900W): 20 to 50 BHD

Laundry Detergent (3L Liquid): 2.20 to 4.50 BHD

Hourly Rate for Cleaning Help: 2.00 to 3.50 BHD (per hour)

Clothing

1 Pair of Levi's 501 Jeans: 30 to 45 BHD

1 Summer Dress (Zara / H&M): 20 to 35 BHD

Nike / Adidas Sports Shoes: 35 to 70 BHD

Men's Leather Business Shoes: 40 to 75 BHD

Transportation

Typical compact car (e.g. Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI, new): 7000 to 9500 BHD

1 litre of gasoline: 0.140 to 0.20 BHD

Monthly public transport pass: 12 BHD

Personal Care & Health

Cold medicine for 6 days (Panadol / Coldrex): 2.20 to 3.50 BHD

Antibiotics (12 doses): 5.00 to 9.00 BHD

Short private doctor visit (15 minutes, GP): 12.00 to 25.00 BHD

Box of 32 tampons (Tampax / O.B.): 3.00 to 3.80 BHD

Roll-on deodorant (50 ml): 1.10 to 1.60 BHD

2-in-1 shampoo (400 ml): 1.90 to 2.50 BHD

Toilet paper (4-roll pack): 1.00 to 1.40 BHD

Toothpaste (standard tube): 0.900 to 1.50 BHD

Men’s haircut (expat area): 3.00 to 5.00 BHD

Entertainment & Leisure

Basic dinner for two (neighbourhood pub): 22.00 to 30.00 BHD

2 Movie tickets (Standard 2D): 8.00 to 10.00 BHD

2 Theatre tickets (National Theatre): 20.00 to 50.00 BHD

Dinner for two (Italian w/ Wine): 35.00 to 55.00 BHD

1 Cocktail drink (Downtown club): 5.50 to 8.00 BHD

Cappuccino (Expat area): 1.80 to 2.40 BHD

1 Beer in a pub (500 ml Pint): 3.80 to 5.50 BHD

iPad (10th Gen, 64GB/256GB): 135.00 to 180.00 BHD

1 Min. prepaid mobile tariff: 0.040 to 0.080 BHD

Monthly Gym (Business District): 25.00 to 50.00 BHD

1 Pack Marlboro Cigarettes: 2.20 to 2.50 BHD

4. Cost of Living in Hamad Town – The Most Affordable Choice

Hamad Town offers a lower cost of living than central Manama, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals. Rent and transport costs are more affordable, while food and entertainment remain reasonably priced. The overall cost depends on lifestyle choices, with expat-oriented areas being slightly more expensive.

Salman bin Hamad Mosque, Bahrain

Housing (Rent)

Food & Groceries

Transportation

Gasoline (Per Litre): 0.14 to 0.20 BHD

Monthly Bus Pass: 12.00 BHD

Household & Personal

Cleaning Service (Hourly): 2.00 to 3.00 BHD

Men's Haircut (Local Salon): 1.00 to 2.00 BHD

Entertainment

Dinner for Two (Local Restaurant): 8.00 to 12.00 BHD

5. Cost of Living in Isa Town – A Family-Friendly Option

Isa Town offers a mid-range cost of living in Bahrain, with slightly higher housing costs than Hamad Town but still more affordable than Manama. Rent prices vary based on location, and daily expenses remain reasonable, making it a good option for families and individuals seeking a balance between affordability and convenience.

Qudaibiya Mosque near the Bahrain Royal Court

Monthly Totals

Food & Groceries

  • Basic Lunch Meal (Local Grill): 1.50 to 2.50 BHD
  • Fast Food Combo Meal: 2.80 to 3.30 BHD
  • 500g Boneless Chicken Breast: 1.10 to 1.40 BHD
  • 1 Litre Whole-Fat Milk: 0.550 to 0.850 BHD
  • 12 Large Eggs: 1.00 to 1.40 BHD
  • 1 kg Tomatoes: 0.40 to 0.90 BHD
  • 500g Local Cheese: 1.80 to 2.80 BHD
  • 1 kg Apples: 0.80 to 1.30 BHD
  • 1 kg Potatoes: 0.30 to 0.600 BHD
  • Bread for Two People (1 Day): 0.20 to 0.400 BHD

Personal Care

  • Cold Medicine (Panadol/Coldrex): 2.20 to 3.00
  • Antibiotics (Course): 5.00 to 9.00
  • Private Doctor Visit (GP): 10.00 to 20.00
  • Deodorant (Roll-on): 1.00 to 1.50
  • Shampoo (400ml, Major Brand): 1.80 to 2.50
  • Men’s Haircut (Local Barber): 1.00 to 2.00

Smoking

  • 1 Pack Marlboro Cigarettes: 2.20 to 2.50 BHD

Housing (Rent)

2-Bedroom Apt (Newer/Renovated): 250 to 320 BHD

2-Bedroom Apt (Standard/Older): 160 to 220 BHD

Studio / 1-Bedroom (Newer): 160 to 200 BHD

Studio / 1-Bedroom (Standard): 120 to 150 BHD

Utilities

Utilities (2-Bed Apt, Summer): 60 to 90 BHD

Utilities (Studio, Summer): 30 to 50 BHD

Internet (5G Home Broadband): 11 to 17 BHD

Household

40-43” Smart TV (4K): 70 to 130 BHD

Microwave (Standard 800W): 20 to 45 BHD

Laundry Detergent (3L): 2.20 to 4.00 BHD

Hourly Cleaning Help: 2.00 to 3.00 BHD

Clothing

1 Pair of Levi’s 501 Jeans: 30 to 45 BHD

1 Summer Dress (Zara/H&M): 20 to 30 BHD

Nike/Adidas Sports Shoes: 35 to 70 BHD

Men’s Leather Business Shoes: 30 to 60 BHD

Transport

Toyota Corolla / Nissan Sunny (New): 7.00 to 9.00 BHD

1 Litre of Gasoline (95 Octane): 0.200 BHD

Monthly Public Transport Pass: 12.00 BHD

Entertainment

Dinner for Two (Local Restaurant): 8.00 to 15.00 BHD

Dinner for Two (Italian/Fine Dining): 25.00 to 40.00 BHD

2 Movie Tickets: 8.00 to 10.00 BHD

Alcohol (Pubs/Clubs): N/A

Gym Membership (Local Gym): 15 to 35 BHD

Bahrain's inflation rate remained relatively low and stable between 2015 and 2019, reflecting controlled price levels. In 2020, the country experienced deflation due to reduced economic activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inflation rebounded in 2022 amid global price pressures, then eased again in 2023 and 2024. The 2025 figure represents a projected inflation rate based on IMF estimates.

Bahrain Inflation Rate Bar Chart

Comparison of the Cost of Living in Bahrain Cities

Bahrain is known for its modern infrastructure, tax-free environment, and high standard of living. However, the cost of living varies significantly across its cities.
Manama, the capital, is the most expensive, while areas like Hamad Town offer more budget-friendly options.
Below is a comparison of the cost of living across Bahrain's top cities, accounting for factors such as rent, food, transportation, and overall expenses.

Manama

Family Monthly Cost: BHD 1,600 to 2,200

Single Monthly Cost: BHD 700 to 950

Rent (Normal Area): BHD 300 to 450

Rent (Expensive Area): BHD 600 to 1,100

Restaurant Meal: BHD 8 to 15

Public Transport: BHD 12

Riffa

Family Monthly Cost: BHD 1,300 to 1,600

Single Monthly Cost: BHD 600 to 750

Rent (Normal Area): BHD 220 to 300

Rent (Expensive Area): BHD 350 to 500

Restaurant Meal: BHD 4 to 8

Public Transport: BHD 12

Muharraq

Family Monthly Cost: BHD 1,250 to 1,550

Single Monthly Cost: BHD 550 to 700

Rent (Normal Area): BHD 200 to 300

Rent (Expensive Area): BHD 450 to 800

Restaurant Meal: BHD 5 to 9

Public Transport: BHD 12

Isa Town

Family Monthly Cost: BHD 1,150 to 1,350

Single Monthly Cost: BHD 500 to 650

Rent (Normal Area): BHD 180 to 240

Rent (Expensive Area): BHD 280 to 350

Restaurant Meal: BHD 3 to 6

Public Transport: BHD 12

Hamad Town

Family Monthly Cost: BHD 1,100 to 1,300

Single Monthly Cost: BHD 450 to 600

Rent (Normal Area): BHD 160 to 220

Rent (Expensive Area): BHD 250 to 350

Restaurant Meal: BHD 2.5 to 5

Public Transport: BHD 12

Conclusion

Each city in Bahrain offers unique advantages, making it important to consider personal lifestyle preferences and budget when choosing a place to live.

FAQ

Utility bills, especially cooling and electricity, tend to spike during the summer months (May to September) due to the high usage of air conditioning.

STC, Batelco, and Zain are the main providers. STC is generally considered more budget-friendly for mobile data, while Batelco offers reliable broadband plans.

Some furnished apartments include internet and basic utilities in the rent, especially in expat-focused areas. Always confirm this before signing a lease.

Hiring a full-time live-in nanny or housemaid costs between BHD 120 to 180 per month, excluding visa sponsorship and accommodation expenses.

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