Living Expenses in Bahrain 2026
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.
Table of Contents
- Housing Costs in Bahrain
- Food & Grocery Costs
- Transportation Costs
- Personal Care & Healthcare Costs
- Entertainment & Leisure Costs
- Education Costs (for Expats & Private Schools)
- Cost of Living in Bahrain's Top Cities
- Cost of Living in Manama
- Cost of Living in Muharraq
- Cost of Living in Riffa
- Cost of Living in Hamad Town
- Cost of Living in Isa Town
- Bahrain Inflation Trends from 2010 to 2025
- Comparison of the Cost of Living in Bahrain Cities
- Conclusion
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
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, 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:
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):
2. Cost of Living in Muharraq – A Mix of Tradition & Modernity
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.
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.
- Family of four estimated monthly costs: 1,350 to 1,650 BHD
- Single person estimated monthly costs: 500 to 700 BHD
Housing (Rent)
- 2-Bedroom Apartment (Normal Area): 160 to 220 BHD
- Studio Apartment (Normal Area): 100 to 130 BHD
- Utilities (85 m² Apartment): 30 to 50 BHD
Food & Groceries
- Lunch (Local Grill / Cafeteria): 1.50 to 2.50 BHD
- Fast Food Combo Meal: 2.60 to 3.20 BHD
- Chicken Breast (1 kg): 2.20 to 2.80 BHD
- Milk (1 Litre): 0.60 to 0.85 BHD
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.
- Family of four estimated monthly costs: BHD 1,500
- Single person estimated monthly costs: BHD 600 to 700
Monthly Totals
- Family of Four: 1,050 to 1,300 BHD
- Single Person: 450 to 600 BHD
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 Inflation Trends from 2015 to 2025
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.
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
- 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.
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.