Port-au-Prince vs. Tehran: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Port-au-Prince Port-au-Prince Image by:Célusmé CELIMOND
Tehran Tehran Image by:Mehdi Salehi

Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital, faces significant economic and infrastructural challenges, reflected in its lower GDP per capita ($3,000) compared to Tehran, Iran's bustling capital ($15,900). Tehran demonstrates higher economic development, stability, and overall quality of life, while Port-au-Prince presents substantial hurdles for residents and investors alike.

Climate Index
88 / 71
Health Care Index
36.1 / 53.3

Port-au-Prince   Tehran

Tehran boasts a significantly higher GDP per capita ($15,900) and a higher GDP growth rate (5.04%) than Port-au-Prince ($3,000, 0.00%). While Tehran's average monthly net salary is considerably lower ($212), its property prices are more affordable relative to income. A 1-bedroom apartment in Tehran's city center costs $427/month, compared to $2,200 in Port-au-Prince. Tehran's mortgage interest rate is also lower (24.5%) than Port-au-Prince's (N/A). However, Port-au-Prince's property prices are higher in absolute terms ($1,700/m² city center vs. $1,470/m² in Tehran).

Pollution Index
105 / 80.4
Safety Index
17.1 / 42.8

Port-au-Prince   Tehran

Tehran generally offers a superior quality of life. Safety is markedly better in Tehran (index 42.77) compared to Port-au-Prince (index 17.05). Healthcare access and quality are also higher in Tehran (index 53.28) than in Port-au-Prince (index 36.11). Pollution levels are lower in Tehran (index 80.35) than in Port-au-Prince (index 105.0). Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment cost $14/month in Tehran versus $140 in Port-au-Prince. While Tehran has slightly better climate conditions (index 60.00), Port-au-Prince has marginally cheaper groceries.

Traffic Commute Time Index
95 / 52.9

Port-au-Prince   Tehran

Tehran presents stronger investment and career prospects. With a higher GDP growth rate and more stable economic environment, Tehran offers better career advancement opportunities. The lower mortgage interest rate also makes homeownership more feasible. Port-au-Prince lacks significant data on mortgage rates and faces severe economic instability, limiting investment security and career potential.

Tehran significantly outperforms Port-au-Prince across economic, housing, and quality-of-life metrics. While Port-au-Prince has lower absolute costs for some goods, the overall economic environment, safety, healthcare, and infrastructure are vastly superior in Tehran. For most individuals and businesses seeking stability and a higher quality of life, Tehran represents the preferable option.

Port-au-PrincePort-au-Prince
TehranTehran

Local cuisine & dishes

Port-au-Prince

Ti-Jean Pit-Roasted ChickenA smoky, tender chicken dish marinated in a fiery mix of garlic, peppers, and annatto oil. Served with fluffy local rice and golden plantains, this meal captures the essence of Port-au-Prince's bold flavors and communal spirit.
Haitian Rice and BeansA hearty blend of short-grain Oryza glaberrima rice and black beans cooked with coconut milk and bay leaves. Topped with crisp, fried plantains, this dish is a staple in every home, reflecting the African and Spanish culinary heritage of Haiti.
Tigelle FlatbreadA fluffy, Levantine-inspired flatbread made from flour, yeast, and water. Grilled to perfection and served with spicy mango salsa, this dish offers a unique fusion of Arab and Caribbean flavors, perfect for sharing at local gatherings.

Tehran

Chelo KebabTender cubes of marinated lamb or beef grilled to perfection, served with fluffy basmati rice. The meat is typically marinated in a blend of garlic, lemon juice, and spices like cumin and paprika. In Tehran, the rice is often cooked with saffron for a golden hue and aromatic flavor. Traditionally served with a side of grilled tomatoes and fresh herbs.
Mirza GhasemiA smoky eggplant dish beloved in Tehran. Eggplants are char-grilled until soft, then mashed and mixed with garlic, tomatoes, and local spices like dried lime (golpar) and fenugreek. The result is a savory, slightly sweet dip served with crusty bread or as a side to rice. Its smokiness reflects the city's affinity for bold flavors.
Zereshk PoloA vibrant rice dish featuring golden barberry berries, which give it a tart flavor and striking color. Saffron-infused basmati rice is layered with tender chicken or fish, often accompanied by nuts like pistachios or almonds. In Tehran, this dish is a staple for celebrations, symbolizing joy and prosperity.
Iranian cuisineIranian cuisine comprises the culinary traditions of Iran. Due to the historically common usage of the term "Persia" to refer to Iran in the Western world, it is alternatively known as Persian cuisine, despite Persians being only one of a
Port-au-PrincePort-au-Prince
TehranTehran

Travel & attractions

Port-au-Prince

Citadelle LaferrièreA massive mountainous fortress built in the early 19th century by King Henry I of Haiti
Musee du Pantheon National HaïtienNational museum showcasing Haitian art, history, and culture
Champs de MarsThe central park of Port-au-Prince, historically used for public gatherings and events
Cathedral of Our Lady of AssumptionA Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Port-au-Prince
Musee du Quai-d'OrsayFormerly the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it now houses a museum displaying Haitian art and history

Tehran

Milad TowerA 435m-tall concrete tower with a panoramic viewing platform and restaurants.
Tehran Grand BazaarOne of the oldest and largest bazaars in the Middle East, featuring numerous shops selling traditional Persian crafts.
National Museum of IranHouses a vast collection of historical artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
Sa'd Abad Palace Museum ComplexA group of four palaces, built for the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties, showcasing Iranian architecture and art.
The Treasury of National JewelsDisplays an extensive collection of precious gems, jeweled crowns, and other royal regalia.

Real estate & living comparison

Port-au-Prince Tehran
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 1500 USD 867.22 USD
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 890 USD 261.25 USD
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 1827.5 USD 545.81 USD
GDP Growth Rate: 1.86 USD 5.04 USD
GDP Per Capita ($) : 3000 USD 15900 USD
Monthly Public Transport Pass (Regular Price) 20 USD 5 USD
Population 987,310 14,148,000

Last updated: 2026-04-16T15:38:48+00:00

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