Cost of Living in Oman: Updated Prices 2025

Oman, a gem in the Middle East known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is an attractive destination for many expatriates, including Indians. Oman is a popular destination known for its Islamic heritage.

For a long time, Oman has been playing an active role in the global oil market leading to the rapid growth of its economy which in turn has resulted in better education, quality healthcare and an overall higher quality of life for its citizens.  

But how much does it cost to live in Oman? In this blog, we will break it down by exploring updated costs for housing, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. Read on to learn all about the cost of living in Oman for different 

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Cost of Living in Oman Overview

The cost of living in Oman is moderate compared to that of the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. Having no income tax and a stable economy attracts many expatriates to Oman for an affordable yet comfortable lifestyle. However, expenses can vary significantly depending on the city and personal preferences.

The cost of living in Oman is much higher compared to India, but lower compared to the UAE and Kuwait. An individual living alone will incur a cost of about 200 OMR or approximately 44,500 INR a month, excluding rent.

A family of four can have their monthly expenditure up to 800-900 OMR, that is around 175,000 to 200,000 INR a month depending upon their lifestyle and expenditure habits.

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Rent Cost in Oman

Rent is one of the most important components of the cost of living in Oman. The accommodation types range from high-end villas to modest apartments. The cost of rent also varies greatly according to the city and area. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the prices;

• One-bedroom apartment in Muscat city centre – 200-300 OMR 
• Two-bedroom apartment away from the Muscat city centre – 120-200 OMR
• Three-bedroom apartment in Muscat city centre – 400–600 OMR

Housing is comparatively more affordable in cities other than Muscat. For example;

• One-bedroom Apartment in Salalah and Sohar – 100-180 OMR. 

The housing cost depends on the type of house, the city, location within the city and so on. However, the general rent costs in Oman are between 100-600 OMR. 

Transportation Cost in Oman

Public transportation in Oman is not that popular, mainly due to the subsidised fuel prices. Most citizens prefer to own a car as it proves more convenient and inexpensive in the long run. Here is a breakdown of the transportation cost in Oman; 

• Public Transport – There are plenty of buses and taxis available across Oman. A single bus ride fare is about OMR 0.5-1. Monthly passes are also available costing between 20-50 OMR per month.
• Taxi Rides – The average short-distance taxi fare is OMR 2 to OMR 4.
• Car Ownership – Buying a car is a common practice and the fueling costs 30 to 50 OMR/month.

Average Food Expenses per Month in Oman

The average food expenses per month depend on whether you are preparing your food or regularly eating out. The cost of groceries is moderate in Oman costing 20-30% more compared to India. 

Grocery – The average monthly grocery expense for a small family ranges from 60-150 OMR per month. Here is a small breakdown of the grocery prices; 

• Milk (1 litre) – 0.60 OMR (129 INR)  
• 1 kg of rice cost – 0.90 OMR (193 INR)  
• 1 dozen eggs – 1 OMR (215 INR)
• 1 kilogram Chicken – 2 OMR (430 INR)  
• 1 loaf of bread (500 gm) – 0.45 OMR (100 INR)
• Onion (1kg) – 0.40 (81 INR)

Dining Out – Eating out at restaurants in Oman is comparatively cheaper compared to other Gulf countries. Meals at mid-range restaurants cost 5–8 OMR (1,075–1,720 INR) while some of the eateries offer meals as cheap as 1-2 OMR. 

Salaries Earned by Indian Expats in Oman

Oman offers a wide range of remuneration packages to Indians, depending on their occupation and experience. 

• Average Salary – 500–800 OMR/month 
• Minimum Salary – 200–250 OMR/month 
• Highest Salary – 4,000 OMR/month for highly skilled employees in the oil and gas, engineering, and IT sectors.

These are just estimated figures. The actual salaries will vary depending on the company, employee’s experience, job demand, etc. 

Healthcare and Education Costs in Oman  

Oman provides a combination of public and private health and education services. Knowing the cost associated helps the expatriate and the resident budget their money properly.  

Healthcare – Many employers in Oman offer comprehensive health coverage, but there may still be out-of-pocket expenses when visiting private institutions.

• Private Health Care Expenses – A consultation with a physician would cost between 15–25 OMR (approximately 3,225-5,375 INR). There might be extra charges associated with lab tests, medications, etc.

Education – The cost of education is moderately priced in Oman. It is an important cost to be considered by families with kids. 

• International School Tuition – Annual fees for international schools range from 1,000–3,000 OMR (around 2,15,000–6,45,000 INR). The cost depends on the school, curriculum (e.g., British, American, or IB), and grade level.

City-wise Cost of Living in Oman

Oman is a big country with various regions and naturally, the cost of living in those regions varies depending on its economic and social development. Here is a complete breakdown of city-wise cost of living in Oman; 

Muscat 

It is the capital city of Oman and in most aspects, the most costly city to live in. Here are the average costs for different essentials; 

• Accommodation – OMR 200–300 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Utilities – Average monthly utilities cost OMR 50-80.
• Leisure – Dining out and recreational activities may cost OMR 100–200 per month.
• Travel – Depending on the mode of transportation, however, the average cost will be 30-60 OMR. 

Salalah

It is the third largest city in Oman known for its breathtaking natural beauty. It is also one of the more affordable cities in Oman. Here is a cost breakdown; 

• Accommodation –OMR 100–180 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Utilities – OMR 25-50 per month.
• Leisure – Dining out and entertainment costs significantly less than in Muscat.
• Travel – OMR 30-50 depending on the mode of travel. 

Sohar

It is a port city located on the northern coast of Oman. It is a renowned place most commonly known as the birthplace of “Sinbad – The Sailor”. 

• Accommodation – OMR 100–180 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Utilities – OMR 25–50 per month.
• Transportation –Travel expenses are similar to other cities (30-50) 

Cost of Living for Different Groups in Oman 

The cost of living in Oman is relatively affordable compared to other Gulf countries. But at the end of the day, the cost also heavily depends on the expenditure habits, lifestyles, etc. Here is a breakdown of the different groups in Oman;

For Singles

Singles can manage comfortably on a budget of OMR 300–500 per month, which typically includes:

• Accommodation – Living alone in a studio apartment or finding a flatmate will cost roughly between 150 to 300 OMR.

• Food – By eating out sometimes and cooking meals at home, grocery and eating out expenses can be maintained at OMR 75-100.

• Transportation – Transportation by public means or fuel for own car approximately costs OMR 30-50.

• Other Expenses – Other miscellaneous, such as utilities, and entertainment, may amount to an additional OMR 50 – 100.

For Families

Families generally spend between OMR 700–1,500 per month, with expenses varying based on the number of family members and lifestyle choices:

• Housing – Housing is one of the main costs, specifically when renting a villa or a larger apartment which costs between OMR 300 to 800.

• Groceries and Dining – Dining out costs average between OMR 200 and OMR 400 monthly depending on the eating out frequency.

• Education and Childcare – Families with school-going children may have to spend OMR 200-500 on tuition fees and other school charges.

• Transportation – The local transportation costs normally range from OMR 100 – 200.

• Entertainment and Utilities – Internet electricity, outings and other recreational activities may cost between OMR 100 to 200.

For Students

International students living in Oman can manage to live comfortably on a monthly budget of OMR 250–500, which covers the following:

• Accommodation – Common living or hostel-type arrangements may range from OMR 100-200.

• Food – Students who cook for themselves at home and eat elsewhere experience estimated to spend OMR 70-120 on meals.

• Transportation – Taking a taxi or using public transport usually costs between OMR 30- 50 monthly.

• Miscellaneous Expenses – Other expenses like books, additional internet and leisure expenses can be approximately from OMR 50-100.

Cost of Living in Oman Compared to Other Countries

Living Costs Comparison between Oman and India

Oman is costlier than India especially concerning accommodation and dining out. However, Indian expatriates consider Oman’s tax-exempt salary packages overall more beneficial. 

• Housing –  Renting in Oman is 3–5 times or even more expensive than renting a home in Indian cities.

• Groceries – Groceries in Oman on average roughly twice as expensive as they are in India.

Cost of Living in Oman vs Dubai

Oman is more affordable than Dubai in several aspects:

• Rent – Real estate prices in Oman are between 30% and 50% less compared to those in Dubai.

• Transportation – The fuel and taxi prices are lower in Oman compared to Dubai.

• Lifestyle – The price for food and leisure is relatively lower than the global average in Oman.

Cost of living in Oman vs Saudi Arabia

Oman and Saudi Arabia share similar cost structures in terms of rent and transportation. However, there are certain differences such as; 

• Groceries – Saudi Arabia’s local produce and other grocery items are comparatively more affordable than those in Oman. 

• Lifestyle – Oman’s lifestyle is comparatively more affordable as compared to that of Saudi Arabia. 

Conclusion

Oman is relatively cheap when compared to other Gulf nations while at the same time, the standard of living is relatively high. While costs are higher than in India, the quality of life, tax-exempt salaries and generous pay make it an attractive destination.

Irrespective of whether you are a single working professional, a couple or a family, Oman has something for everyone, from affordable housing to moderate cost of living. 

Frequently Asked Questions