Astana in Numbers for Newcomers
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the average nominal salary in Astana in Q2 2026 was KZT 647,920 — second in the country after Mangystau region (KZT 673,656). The Kazakhstan average was KZT 486,388 (+8.4% year on year) and the median KZT 348,415. The real wage index was 98.2%: adjusted for inflation, incomes fell slightly on average.
How Much Renting Costs
| Apartment | Median rent in Astana | Change |
|---|---|---|
| One-room | ≈KZT 240k/month | +9.1% on August 1–18 |
| Two-room | ≈KZT 320k/month | +6.7% |
| Three-room | ≈KZT 500k/month | unchanged |
Krisha.kz, data for August 1–18, 2026.
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the average rent in Astana in August 2026 was KZT 6,079 per m² per month (+4.9% m/m); across Kazakhstan rents rose 17% year on year. Demand traditionally rises in August as the academic year starts, so it pays to look for housing before or after the seasonal peak.
If you are comparing renting with buying, see "Renting or a Mortgage in Astana".
Where to Live: Districts in Brief
| District | Bank | Who it suits | Median 1-room, resale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yesil | Left | Work in the administrative and business center, new complexes | KZT 27m |
| Nura | Left | New buildings, families fine with construction nearby | KZT 24.5m |
| Sarayshyk | Right | Railway station, 5 LRT stations, parks | KZT 21.9m |
| Almaty | Right | Dense infrastructure, short distances | KZT 20.55m |
| Baikonur | Right | Affordable prices, urban quarters and residential areas | KZT 18.9m |
| Saryarka | Right | Historic center, the most affordable apartments | KZT 18.5m |
Prices are median resale asking prices, Krisha.kz (2026).
More on the differences between the banks: "Astana's Left and Right Banks"; on prices — the price index.
Transport: the LRT and Buses
- The LRT has run since May 16, 2026: 22.4 km and 18 stations from the airport on the left bank to Nurly Zhol station. A ride costs KZT 200.
- Buses: KZT 110 with a transport card and KZT 220 in cash. A transport card costs KZT 1,000.
- Discounts: students of the capital's schools under 18 and eligible categories of citizens registered in Astana ride free; children aged 7–15 get 50% off.
Proximity to an LRT station is already reflected in prices: according to the National Bank, the effect ranged from 4.6% to 10.5% depending on the segment and distance (details).
Rent or Buy
For reference: the monthly payment on a KZT 20m loan over 20 years is about KZT 155k at 7% and about KZT 340k at 20% — versus a median one-room rent of about KZT 240k. Subsidized programs ("7-20-25", Nauryz, Otau, Umai) are available to citizens of Kazakhstan who meet the conditions — compared in "Subsidized Mortgages 2026".
On a tight budget, start by renting in the district where you plan to live and choose an apartment to buy after a few months in the city. The most affordable options are covered in "The Cheapest Apartments in Astana".
If You Are Moving From Another Country
- Stay limits: EAEU citizens may stay in Kazakhstan without obtaining a status for up to 90 days within 180 days; other visa-free countries have their own limits.
- IIN — obtained in person at a Public Service Center; you need it for work, banking and a formal lease. Details: "IIN for Foreigners".
- Bank account — passport, IIN and proof of lawful stay (details).
- Long stays — a temporary residence permit or a residence permit (2026 rules).
- Buying housing as an individual — only with a residence permit (guide for foreigners).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary in Astana in 2026?
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the average nominal salary in Astana in Q2 2026 was KZT 647,920 — second in the country after Mangystau region. The Kazakhstan average was KZT 486,388.
How much does it cost to rent a one-room apartment in Astana?
According to Krisha.kz, on August 1–18, 2026 the median rent for a one-room apartment rose from KZT 220,000 to 240,000 a month. A two-room apartment is about KZT 320,000 and a three-room about KZT 500,000.
How much does public transport cost in Astana?
An LRT ride costs KZT 200; a bus ride costs KZT 110 with a transport card and KZT 220 in cash. A transport card costs KZT 1,000.
Which district of Astana is best to live in?
It depends on your job and budget: Yesil and Nura on the left bank offer new buildings and the business center but cost more; Saryarka and Baikonur on the right bank have the most affordable prices; Sarayshyk is convenient for transport — the railway station and five LRT stations.
Sources
- Tengrinews: average salary in Q2 2026 (in Russian) — tengrinews.kz
- Elordainfo, 02.09.2026: average salary in Kazakhstan (in Russian) — ru.elordainfo.kz
- Krisha.kz: what is happening with rents in Kazakhstan (in Russian) — krisha.kz
- Inform.kz, 09.07.2026: housing and rent prices per BNS (in Russian) — inform.kz
- Tengrinews: how to pay for Astana LRT rides (in Russian) — tengrinews.kz
- Krisha.kz: where the cheapest apartments in Astana are (in Russian) — krisha.kz
- Mybuh.kz: stay limits for foreigners (in Russian) — mybuh.kz