Cost of Living in Qatar with a family

Living in Qatar with a family involves considering various aspects of cost, from housing to food, transportation, and utilities. Here’s a breakdown of the typical monthly expenses you can expect in 2024:

Housing

• Rent for a well-furnished 85 sqm (900 sqft) apartment in a premium location averages around QAR 12,174 (approximately $3,343) per month. If you opt for a more standard area, the rent drops to about QAR 8,090 ($2,222) per month​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.
• Utilities for two people in an 85 sqm flat are approximately QAR 1,063 ($292) per month​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.

Food and Dining

• A basic lunch in the business district, including a drink, costs about QAR 32 ($9)​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.
• Grocery costs vary, but essentials like chicken, milk, eggs, and vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes can be budgeted around QAR 50-100 ($14-$27) for basic daily consumption​ (Numbeo)​​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.

Transportation

• Public transportation is relatively affordable, with a monthly pass costing about QAR 140 ($38)​ (Numbeo)​.
• Running a car will add to your costs, with gasoline priced at about QAR 2.12 per liter ($0.58)​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.

Personal Expenses

• Internet for a month can cost about QAR 323 ($89), which is essential for most families​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.
• Other expenses, such as clothing and personal care items, vary widely but setting aside QAR 500-1,000 ($137-$274) should cover basic needs​ (Expatistan, cost of living comparisons)​.

Additional Costs

• School fees (if you have children) and healthcare are additional significant expenses that can vary greatly depending on your choices and needs.

Overall, a safe estimate for a family of four to live comfortably in Qatar would likely range between QAR 15,000 to QAR 25,000 per month ($4,118 to $6,863), excluding luxuries and personal discretionary spending. This estimate provides for a decent lifestyle covering housing, food, transport, and basic utilities but does not include schooling or unexpected expenses.