Cost of Housing
Price Ranges for Different Housing Types
The cost of housing in Amman varies significantly depending on the type of property and its location. Here's a general overview of what you might expect for different types of housing:
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Apartments: In Amman, apartments are the most common type of housing, available in both high-rise and low-rise configurations. The price range for renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is typically between 300 to 600 JOD per month. In suburban areas, this can drop to between 200 and 350 JOD. For purchasing apartments, prices vary significantly depending on location, ranging from 1,000 JOD per square meter in less central areas to upwards of 2,000 JOD per square meter in upscale neighborhoods.
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Villas: Villas, whether traditional or modern, tend to be more expensive. A traditional villa in a prestigious neighborhood such as Abdoun or Dabouq can range from 1,500 to 4,000 JOD per month for rent, while purchasing prices can extend from 2,000 to 4,500 JOD per square meter. Modern villas, offering more luxurious amenities, often exceed these ranges, especially in prime locations.
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Shared Accommodations: For budget-conscious individuals, shared accommodations provide a more affordable option. Hostels and guesthouses may offer beds in shared rooms for as low as 100 JOD per month, while single-room rentals in homes or apartments tend to range from 150 to 300 JOD.
Factors Affecting Prices
Several factors influence the pricing of housing in Amman:
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Location: Proximity to the city center, schools, and public transportation are significant determinants of price. Central and affluent areas like Abdoun tend to have higher prices due to their desirability and convenience.
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Property Size and Amenities: Larger properties with modern amenities and features such as gyms, pools, and security systems command higher prices. The availability of parking spaces can also affect pricing.
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Market Demand: Economic conditions, expatriate influx, and political stability impact housing demand and thereby prices. Areas experiencing high demand due to new infrastructure projects or commercial developments often see rapid price increases.
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Condition and Age of Property: Newly constructed or recently renovated properties are generally more expensive than older ones that might require maintenance or upgrades.
Cost of Utilities and Maintenance
Beyond the purchase or rental costs, maintaining a property in Amman comes with additional expenses. Utilities typically include electricity, water, and gas:
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Electricity: Costs for electricity can be high, especially during the summer months when air conditioning usage peaks. Monthly bills can range from 50 to 150 JOD for a typical apartment, with villas costing more due to their larger size.
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Water: Water is relatively affordable, usually costing between 5 to 20 JOD per month, although conservation is important due to Amman's limited natural supply.
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Gas: Used mainly for cooking and heating, gas expenses can range from 10 to 30 JOD per month depending on usage.
Maintenance costs vary based on the property type and condition. For rental properties, landlords may cover major maintenance, but tenants are typically responsible for minor repairs. Homeowners must budget for routine upkeep, such as plumbing, electrical work, and possibly contributions to a community maintenance fund in apartment complexes.
In summary, potential residents or investors in Amman should consider not only the purchase or rental price of a property but also the auxiliary costs associated with utilities and maintenance when evaluating housing options.