Cost of Living in Kathmandu, Nepal

Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Kathmandu costs approximately $431 per month for one person including rent. That is 73% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $891, Kathmandu is cheaper than typical for Asia. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $185 per month, or $87 outside the centre. Housing therefore accounts for about 20% of a single person's total monthly cost here. A family of four should budget around $1,255 per month excluding rent. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $1.72 and a monthly transit pass $10. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 59 Mbps and Kathmandu scores 58/100 on safety (moderately safe). Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →