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Astana🇰🇿

Kazakhstan · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Timezone
Asia/Almaty
Nomad community
Small

City metrics

📊 Data estimated — figures are based on published regional averages and are updated quarterly. Last verified: May 24, 2026

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)$500/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)$320/mo
COL index42 (vs Switzerland=101)
Cheap meal$4.00
Mid-range meal for 2$14.00
Monthly groceries~$200

Infrastructure

Internet speed80 Mbps
Healthcare index60/100
Coworking spaces~8

Lifestyle

Safety index68/100
Air quality90 AQI — Moderate
Walkability55/100
Climate score42/100
English proficiencylow
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Visa easemedium
Budget score78/100
Lifestyle score55/100
Overall nomad score
58/100
Source: NoodlePants composite (World Bank ICP, Ookla, OpenAQ) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

Looking for a truly affordable nomad base? This city in Kazakhstan is surprisingly budget-friendly. You can snag a 1-bedroom in the center for $500, or outside for just $320, and groceries are around $200 monthly. Eating out is cheap too, with budget meals at $4. It's best for nomads who prioritize cost savings, don't mind a small expat community, and are ready for a truly unique cultural experience. Infrastructure is decent: internet speeds clock in at 80 Mbps, and there are 8 coworking spaces. The walkability is okay (score of 55), but be prepared for a harsh climate (score of 42). The honest caveat? English proficiency is generally low, so learning some local phrases will go a long way. Safety is pretty good (68), but inflation is currently high at 9%.

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Who this suits

Budget nomad

Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Astana.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Astana as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Astana averages around $500 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 42 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Astana safe for digital nomads?+

Astana scores 68/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most central neighbourhoods are fine with normal big-city awareness.

How fast is the internet in Astana?+

Headline average internet speed in Astana is around 80 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.

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