Living Expenses in Bahrain 2025

Living Expenses In Bahrain 2025

Bahrain, a small but prosperous island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offers a high standard of living with relatively moderate costs compared to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like the UAE and Qatar. 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.

1. 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.

z

Location

Accommodation Type

Cost (BHD/Month)

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

3-bedroom apartment (high-end)

800 – 1,500

1-bedroom apartment (luxury tower)

450 – 700

Studio apartment (city center)

300 – 500

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

3-bedroom apartment

400 – 800

1-bedroom apartment

250 – 450

Studio apartment

200 – 350

Utilities & Internet

Electricity, water, cooling (3-bedroom)

40 – 100

High-speed internet (100 Mbps)

15 – 30

2. 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.

Dining Out Costs

Meal Type

Cost (BHD)

Basic lunch in a business district

3 – 6

Fast food combo meal (McDonald's, KFC, etc.)

2.5 – 4

Mid-range restaurant (three-course meal for two)

20 – 40

Local Bahraini meal at a casual restaurant

2 – 5

Grocery Prices

Item

Quantity

Cost (BHD)

Milk

1 liter

0.75

Chicken breast

1 kg

2 – 3.5

Eggs

1 dozen

1.2 – 1.8

Tomatoes

1 kg

0.6 – 1

Apples

1 kg

1.2 – 2

Local cheese

500g

3 – 5

Potatoes

1 kg

0.5 – 0.8

Good-quality wine

1 bottle

8 – 15

Domestic beer (supermarket)

0.5L

1.5 – 3

3. Transportation Costs

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

Transportation Costs in Bahrain

Category

Item/Service

Cost (BHD)

Fuel & Public Transport

1 liter of gasoline

0.20 – 0.22

Monthly public transport pass (bus network)

12 – 20

Taxi starting fare

1.5

Taxi per kilometer

0.5 – 0.8

Car Rental & Purchase

Car rental (monthly, basic sedan)

150 – 250

Toyota Corolla (new, base model)

6,000 – 7,500

Luxury SUV (Lexus, BMW X5, etc.)

25,000 – 45,000

4. Personal Care & Healthcare Costs

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

Healthcare Costs

Service/Item

Cost (BHD)

Doctor’s consultation (private hospital, 15 min)

20 – 40

Cold medicine (6 days, Panadol, Coldrex, etc.)

2 – 4

Antibiotics (12 doses)

4 – 8

Basic health insurance (private, per month)

30 – 100

Personal Care Costs

Item/Service

Quantity

Cost (BHD)

Shampoo

400ml

1.5 – 3

Deodorant (roll-on)

50ml

2 – 4

Haircut (men, standard barber)

Per session

3 – 7

Haircut (women, salon)

Per session

10 – 30

Gym membership (mid-range facility)

Per month

20 – 50

5. Entertainment & Leisure Costs

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

Entertainment, Leisure & Luxury Costs

Category

Item/Service

Cost (BHD)

Entertainment & Nightlife

Movie ticket (standard seat)

3.5 – 5

Theater/concert ticket (best seats)

20 – 50

Cocktail at a high-end bar/club

5 – 10

Beer at a local pub (pint)

3 – 6

Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (with wine & dessert)

25 – 50

Luxury & Electronics

iPad Wi-Fi 128GB

180 – 250

40” flat-screen TV

150 – 300

6. Education Costs (for Expats & Private Schools)

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

  • Nursery/Preschool (monthly, private)BHD 150 – 400
  • International school tuition (primary, yearly) – BHD 3,000 – 8,000
  • University tuition (private, per year) – BHD 4,000 – 10,000

The Cost of Living in Bahrain Top Cities

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

1. The Cost Living in Manama, The Capital City

The Cost Living In Manama

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

Housing:A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between $715 and $882 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $1,691 to $1,750 per month. 

Utilities: Monthly utilities for an 85m² apartment average around $118. 

Internet: A 50 Mbps unlimited internet plan costs approximately $41.80 per month.

Education: International primary school tuition averages around $9,896 per year.

Groceries:

  • Milk (1 liter): $1.82
  • Bread (0.5 kg): $1.45
  • Eggs (dozen): $2.68
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): $7.39
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): $1.22
  • Apples (1 kg): $2.39
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $0.83 

Dining Out:

  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $6.92
  • Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $57
  • Fast food combo meal: $7.22
  • Domestic beer (0.5 liter): $9.31
  • Cappuccino: $5.26 

Transportation:

  • One-way local transport ticket: $0.86
  • Monthly pass: $34.80
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $0.55 

Alcohol and Tobacco:

  • Wine (mid-priced, 750 mL bottle): $20.10
  • Domestic beer (0.5 liter bottle): $3.04
  • Imported beer (0.33 liter bottle): $3.64
  • Cigarettes (pack): $6.44 

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

Category

Bachelors (BHD/month)

Couples (BHD/month)

Families (BHD/month)

Overall Expenses (Excl. Rent)

~330.8

-

~1,175.1

Accommodation

200–400

500–800

800–1,200

Food (Per Meal)

2–5

10–30

40–70

Transportation

10–15

20–30

40–60

Utilities

45–60

60–80

80–120

Entertainment

20–40

40–70

60–80

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

Cost Of Living In Muharraq

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

Cost of Living in Muharraq

Category

Item/Service

Cost (BHD)

Accommodation (Monthly Rent)

1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre)

200 – 500

1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre)

150 – 400

3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre)

400 – 900

3-Bedroom Apartment (Outside City Centre)

300 – 700

Villas (varies by size & location)

500+

Food (Eating Out Per Meal)

Inexpensive Restaurant Meal

1 – 5

Mid-Range Restaurant Meal (for 2 people)

12 – 65

Fast Food Combo Meal

2 – 4

Coffee (Cappuccino)

1 – 3.02

Example Restaurant Items

Local Bahraini Breakfast (Balaleet)

1 – 2

Shawarma Sandwich

0.8 – 1.5

Burger Meal

2 – 4

Indian Curry Dish

2 – 5

Seafood Platter (Mid-Range Restaurant)

15 – 30

Groceries (Basic Items)

Milk (1 Gallon)

1.82 – 3.79

Loaf of Fresh White Bread

0.18 – 0.91

Eggs (12)

0.60 – 1.80

Water (1.5 Liters Bottle)

0.15 – 0.40

Rice (1 kg)

0.40 – 1.00

Chicken Fillets (1 kg)

1.50 – 3.50

Beef (1 kg)

2.50 – 5.00

Fruits & Vegetables (Approx. per kg)

Tomatoes

0.30 – 0.80

Potatoes

0.20 – 0.60

Onions

0.25 – 0.70

Bananas

0.50 – 1.20

Apples

0.60 – 1.50

Transportation (Public Transport & Taxis)

One-way Bus Ticket

0.30 – 0.50

Monthly Bus Pass

7 – 20

Taxi Start Fare

1.20 – 4.00

Taxi per KM (estimated)

0.4 – 0.8

Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Careem)

Similar/slightly higher than taxis

Driving Costs

Gasoline (1 Gallon)

0.06 – 0.95

Car Insurance (Annual, varies by car & coverage)

80+

Utilities (Monthly)

Basic Utilities (Electricity, Water, Cooling, Garbage – 915 sq ft apt)

35 – 60

Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited Data)

10 – 25

Mobile Phone (Monthly Plan, Calls + 10GB+ Data)

7.50 – 14

Entertainment & Leisure

Cinema Ticket

3 – 5

Fitness Club Membership (Monthly)

12 – 60

Soft Drink/Juice

1 – 2

Beers (licensed establishments)

2.5 – 5+

Cocktails (licensed establishments)

4+

Activities & Leisure

Museum Entry

1 – 3

Water Park Day Pass

10 – 25+

Bowling (Per Game)

2 – 4

3. Cost of Living in Riffa – A Balanced Lifestyle

Cost Of Living In Riffa

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

Food & Groceries

Item

Cost (BHD)

Basic lunchtime menu (business district)

2.00 - 3.00

Combo meal at fast food restaurant

2.00 - 3.00

500g boneless chicken breast

1.70 - 2.00

1 liter whole-fat milk

0.60 - 0.80

12 large eggs

1.90 - 2.50

1kg tomatoes

1.00 - 1.20

500g local cheese

3.50 - 4.00

1kg apples

0.70 - 1.40

1kg potatoes

0.30 - 0.60

0.5L domestic beer (supermarket)

1.00 - 1.20

1 bottle of red table wine (good quality)

7.00 - 8.00

2L Coca-Cola

1.00 - 1.20

Bread for two people (1 day)

0.40 - 0.50

Housing & Utilities

Item

Cost (BHD/month)

Rent (85m² furnished apartment, expensive area)

400 - 600

Rent (85m² furnished apartment, normal area)

300 - 500

Rent (45m² furnished studio, expensive area)

200 - 300

Rent (45m² furnished studio, normal area)

150 - 250

Utilities (Electricity, water, heating for 85m² apartment)

20 - 40

Utilities (Electricity, water, heating for 45m² studio)

15 - 30

Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited data)

15 - 20

Household Items

Item

Cost (BHD)

40” flat-screen TV

200 - 300

Microwave (800/900W, major brands)

50 - 100

Laundry detergent (3L)

1.50 - 2.00

Hourly rate for cleaning help

3.00 - 5.00

Clothing

Item

Cost (BHD)

1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans

20 - 30

1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.)

15 - 25

1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes

30 - 50

1 pair of men’s leather business shoes

40 - 60

Transportation

Item

Cost (BHD)

Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras)

10,000 - 12,000

1 liter of gasoline

0.14 - 0.20

Monthly public transport pass

12 - 15

Personal Care & Health

Item

Cost (BHD)

Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex, etc.)

2.00 - 3.00

1 box of antibiotics (12 doses)

5.00 - 10.00

Short private doctor visit (15 minutes)

15.00 - 20.00

1 box of 32 tampons

1.50 - 2.00

Roll-on deodorant (50ml)

1.00 - 1.50

2-in-1 shampoo (400ml)

1.00 - 1.50

4 rolls of toilet paper

0.50 - 0.70

Tube of toothpaste

0.50 - 0.80

Standard men’s haircut (expat area)

2.00 - 3.00

Entertainment & Leisure

Item

Cost (BHD)

Basic dinner for two (neighborhood pub)

15 - 20

2 movie tickets

6 - 8

2 theater tickets (best available seats)

20 - 30

Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (with wine)

20 - 30

1 cocktail drink (downtown club)

5 - 7

Cappuccino (expat area)

1.30 - 1.50

1 beer in a neighborhood pub (500ml)

0.80 - 1.20

iPad Wi-Fi (128GB)

200 - 300

1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan)

0.05 - 0.10

Monthly gym membership (business district)

20 - 30

1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes

2.40 - 3.00

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

Hamad Town offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to 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.

Summary

  • Family of four estimated monthly costs: BHD 1,200
  • Single person estimated monthly costs: BHD 600.

Food

The cost of food in Hamad Town is relatively affordable. A basic lunchtime meal in a business district restaurant costs around BHD 6 to 8, while a fast food combo meal is about BHD 3 to 3.5. Grocery prices include BHD 1.6 to 1.8 for 500g of boneless chicken breast, BHD 0.7 to 0.9 for 1 liter of milk, and BHD 1.5 to 1.8 for a kilogram of tomatoes. A loaf of bread for two people costs around BHD 0.4 to 0.5.

Housing

Rent prices in Hamad Town are lower compared to central areas like Manama. A furnished 85m² apartment in a normal area costs between BHD 250 and 350 per month, while a similar-sized apartment in an expensive area is around BHD 450 to 550. For a smaller 45m² studio, rent in a normal area ranges from BHD 130 to 200, whereas in a premium area, it costs between BHD 180 and 250. Utility costs for an 85m² apartment range from BHD 40 to 60 per month, while a 45m² studio incurs around BHD 25 to 40. Internet with 60 Mbps unlimited data costs around BHD 10 to 15 per month.

Household Items & Cleaning Services

Basic appliances like a 40” flat-screen TV cost between BHD 100 and 150, and a microwave (800/900W) is around BHD 30 to 50. Laundry detergent (3L) is priced at about BHD 2.5 to 3, while hiring a cleaning service costs between BHD 3 and 5 per hour.

Clothing

Clothing prices vary based on the brand. A pair of Levi’s jeans costs between BHD 15 and 20, a summer dress from retailers like Zara or H&M ranges from BHD 18 to 25, and a pair of Nike or Adidas sports shoes is typically BHD 35 to 45. Men’s leather business shoes cost around BHD 25 to 35.

Transportation

Hamad Town has an affordable transport system. A new Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI costs between BHD 9,000 and 10,000. Gasoline is priced at around BHD 0.22 to 0.25 per liter, and a monthly public transport pass costs approximately BHD 8 to 10.

Personal Care & Health

Healthcare and personal care items are reasonably priced. Cold medicine (e.g., Tylenol or Coldrex) for six days costs BHD 2 to 3, while a box of 12 antibiotic doses costs around BHD 5 to 7. A short private doctor consultation (15 minutes) is approximately BHD 6 to 8. Other essentials like deodorant cost around BHD 0.8 to 1.2, shampoo (400ml) is BHD 2.5 to 3, and a men’s haircut in an expat area costs about BHD 2 to 3.

Entertainment & Leisure

Dining out in Hamad Town is quite affordable. A basic dinner for two in a neighborhood pub costs BHD 15 to 20, while a full meal at an Italian restaurant with appetizers, main course, wine, and dessert is around BHD 25 to 35. A movie ticket costs BHD 8 to 10 for two people, and theater tickets for the best available seats range from BHD 10 to 15. A cocktail in a downtown club costs about BHD 3 to 4, while a cappuccino in an expat café is priced at BHD 2 to 2.5.

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.

Summary

  • Family of four estimated monthly costs: BHD 1,250
  • Single person estimated monthly costs: BHD 630

Cost of Living in Isa Town, Bahrain

Category

Item/Service

Cost (BHD)

Estimated Monthly Costs

Family of Four

1,250

Single Person

630

Food (Eating Out & Groceries)

Basic Lunch Meal (Business District)

7 – 9

Fast Food Combo Meal (Big Mac, etc.)

3 – 3.5

500g Boneless Chicken Breast

1.5 – 1.8

1 Liter Whole-Fat Milk

0.8 – 1

12 Large Eggs

1.4 – 1.7

1kg Tomatoes

1.5 – 1.9

500g Local Cheese

2 – 2.5

1kg Apples

0.9 – 1.2

1kg Potatoes

0.5 – 0.7

Bread for Two People (1 Day)

0.4 – 0.6

Housing (Monthly Rent)

85m² Furnished Apartment (Expensive Area)

500 – 600

85m² Furnished Apartment (Normal Area)

270 – 350

45m² Furnished Studio (Expensive Area)

350 – 450

45m² Furnished Studio (Normal Area)

180 – 250

Utilities & Internet

Utilities (85m² Apartment)

50 – 70

Utilities (45m² Studio)

30 – 45

Internet (60 Mbps, Unlimited Data)

10 – 15

Household Items & Cleaning Services

40” Flat-Screen TV

110 – 140

Microwave (800/900W, Major Brands)

35 – 50

Laundry Detergent (3L)

2.5 – 3

Hourly Rate for Cleaning Help

3 – 5

Clothing

1 Pair of Levi’s 501 Jeans

15 – 20

1 Summer Dress (Zara, H&M, etc.)

18 – 25

1 Pair of Nike/Adidas Sports Shoes

35 – 45

1 Pair of Men’s Leather Business Shoes

28 – 35

Transportation

Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (New, No Extras)

9,000 – 10,000

1 Liter of Gasoline

0.22 – 0.25

Monthly Public Transport Pass

8 – 10

Personal Care & Healthcare

Cold Medicine (Tylenol, Coldrex, etc.)

2 – 3

1 Box of Antibiotics (12 Doses)

5 – 7

Short Private Doctor Visit (15 Minutes)

6 – 8

Roll-On Deodorant (50ml)

0.8 – 1.2

2-in-1 Shampoo (400ml)

2.5 – 3

4 Rolls of Toilet Paper

1 – 1.5

Tube of Toothpaste

1 – 1.5

Men’s Standard Haircut (Expat Area)

2 – 3

Entertainment & Leisure

Basic Dinner for Two (Neighborhood Pub)

18 – 22

Dinner for Two (Italian Restaurant, with Wine)

28 – 35

2 Movie Tickets

8 – 10

2 Theater Tickets (Best Available Seats)

10 – 12

1 Cocktail Drink (Downtown Club)

3 – 4

Cappuccino (Expat Café)

2 – 2.5

1 Beer (500ml, Neighborhood Pub)

2.5 – 3

Monthly Gym Membership (Business District)

25 – 30

Smoking

1 Pack of Marlboro Cigarettes

2.2 – 2.5

Bahrain's inflation rate has fluctuated significantly over the years due to economic shifts, global market trends, and domestic policies. The country has experienced periods of high inflation, particularly in recent years, while also facing occasional deflation. Below is an illustration of Bahrain's inflation trends from 2010 to 2024.

Bahrain Inflation Trends

Here are the Key Points about Bahrain Inflations

  • Fluctuations Over the Years – Bahrain's inflation rate has shown significant variations due to economic conditions and external influences.
  • High Inflation Periods – Inflation peaked at various points, particularly in recent years, surpassing 10% at certain times.
  • Deflationary Trends – Some years, such as around 2019–2020, saw negative inflation (deflation), indicating a drop in prices.
  • Economic Impact – Changes in inflation rates have affected the cost of living, purchasing power, and overall economic stability.
  • Global Influences – External factors like oil prices, supply chain disruptions, and global financial trends have played a key role in shaping inflation.
  • Recent Trends – Inflation has risen again post-2020, reflecting global economic recovery, increased demand, and supply constraints.
Key Points About Bahrain Inflations

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 in Bahrain’s top cities, considering factors such as rent, food, transportation, and overall expenses.

City

Family Monthly Cost

Single Monthly Cost

Rent (Normal Area)

Rent (Expensive Area)

Restaurant Meal

Public Transport

Manama

BHD 1,500 – 1,700

BHD 700 – 850

BHD 350 – 450

BHD 600 – 700

BHD 8 – 12

BHD 10

Riffa

BHD 1,200 – 1,400

BHD 650 – 750

BHD 280 – 380

BHD 500 – 600

BHD 6 – 9

BHD 8

Muharraq

BHD 1,100 – 1,300

BHD 600 – 700

BHD 250 – 350

BHD 450 – 550

BHD 6 – 8

BHD 8

Isa Town

BHD 1,200 – 1,350

BHD 600 – 700

BHD 270 – 350

BHD 500 – 600

BHD 7 – 9

BHD 8

Hamad Town

BHD 1,000 – 1,200

BHD 550 – 650

BHD 220 – 300

BHD 400 – 500

BHD 5 – 7

BHD 7

Conclusion

  • Manama: Best for expats and professionals who want a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to premium services and entertainment.
  • Riffa: A balanced city offering a mix of affordability and modern conveniences, suitable for families and professionals.
  • Muharraq: Ideal for those who appreciate a blend of cultural heritage and modern living.
  • Isa Town: The best choice for families looking for a community-oriented environment with good schools and amenities.
  • Hamad Town: The most affordable option with lower rent and daily expenses, perfect for budget-conscious residents.

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

Content Disclaimer: Prices are based on data from the current data, note that prices can change over time due to inflation and market conditions.

 

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