Decoding the Cost of Milk by the Litre

Comparing the cost of everyday items from one country to another can be really fascinating. By looking at prices for things like milk, jeans, or utilities, we can get a sense of how different living standards are across the globe. We all know these essentials, so it’s an easy way to relate.

Most of us have dealt with banks, whether it’s opening a checking account or applying for a credit card. But things are quite different in places like the Middle East, where modern banking isn’t as widespread. In countries like Egypt, many people don’t have access to banking services because of low income. It’s a similar story in Jordan, where consumer banking isn’t very common, even though financial services like loans and credit cards are available.

Tourists visiting these regions might not care much about the low-interest rates that local banks offer. What becomes important is the access to ATMs and card machines when vacation funds start running low. Travelers might also notice the differences in the cost of living when haggling over souvenirs and other keepsakes.

For example, you could compare what you pay for everyday items in New York City to what you’d pay in Middle Eastern cities like Amman (Jordan), Doha (Qatar), Cairo (Egypt), and Dubai (United Arab Emirates). While a simple price check can’t capture all economic factors, it’s still a compelling look. The numbers come from data on Numbeo.

Take milk—it’s cheaper in New York than in those four Middle Eastern cities; the price difference goes from just three cents in Cairo up to 53 cents in Doha. Bread, however, is cheaper in the Middle East; you save about $2.00 on a fresh loaf in Amman, Cairo, and Dubai compared to New York. Eggs are priciest in Dubai at $2.66 per dozen, while they’re cheapest in Cairo at $1.60.

Wine prices fluctuate a lot. A mid-range bottle that’s around $15 in New York would set you back an extra $4.53 to $7.65 in the Middle East, except for Cairo, where it’s actually $4.75 cheaper. Clothes and shoes also tend to be more expensive in Middle Eastern cities when compared to New York.

Comparing costs like these is both fun and informative!