Is Jordan Safe, Pros and cons of living in Jordan
Jordan is a country situated in the Middle East, known for its rich history, ancient sites, and warm hospitality. It offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, from the rose-red city of Petra to the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea.
The nation’s strategic location has made it a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. Today, Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a developing economy that relies on tourism, industry, and trade. Its commitment to security and stability makes it a notable destination in a sometimes volatile region.
Is it Safe to Live in Jordan?
Jordan is generally regarded as one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with a low crime rate compared to global standards (according to Wikipedia). Violent crimes, including armed robbery and assaults, are rare, and property crimes occur at lower rates than in many other nations (according to Wikipedia). Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, but these incidents are infrequent (according to Wikipedia).
The perception of safety in Jordan is high, with a crime index score in the low to moderate range (according to Numbeo via Statbase). Most residents feel safe walking alone during daylight hours, and safety at night remains at a respectable level (according to Numbeo via Statbase). The Jordanian government prioritizes security, with visible but unobtrusive security measures in place, particularly around tourist sites (according to Zaman Tours).
Cost of Living in Jordan
The cost of living in Jordan is significantly lower than in the United States, with an estimated monthly cost of $2,382.6 for a family of four, excluding rent (according to Numbeo). For a single person, the estimated monthly costs are around $666.9, also excluding rent (according to Numbeo). Rent prices are considerably lower, averaging 82.1% less than in the United States (according to Numbeo).
In Amman, the capital, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from 300 to 500 Jordanian Dinars (JOD) per month, while outside the center, it might cost between 150 to 250 JOD (according to Numbeo). Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment typically cost around 70 JOD monthly, with internet services adding another 20 to 35 JOD per month (according to Numbeo).
Housing Costs
Renting an apartment in Jordan is generally affordable, especially when compared to Western countries. A one-bedroom apartment in Amman’s city center can cost between JOD 300 and JOD 500 per month (as of 2025, according to Expat Focus). Outside the city center, these prices can drop to JOD 150 to JOD 250 per month (as of 2025, according to Expat Focus).
For a three-bedroom apartment in Amman, expect to pay between JOD 400 to JOD 900 in the city center and JOD 250 to JOD 600 outside the city center (according to Numbeo). Rental prices can vary significantly between the eastern and western sides of Amman, with the western side being more upscale and expensive (according to Expat Focus).
Everyday Expenses
Daily expenses in Jordan are relatively modest. A reasonable estimate for living expenses, excluding rent, is about 500 to 600 JOD per month for a single person (according to Numbeo). For a family of four, these costs can rise to approximately 1,700 to 1,800 JOD monthly, not including rent (according to Numbeo).
Meals at local restaurants or street food stalls typically range from 3 to 10 JOD. Public transportation is affordable, with a one-way ticket costing around 0.5 JOD, and taxis generally charging about 1 JOD per kilometer (according to Numbeo).
Job Market and Economy
Jordan’s economy is characterized by a skilled workforce and a strategic location, making it attractive to foreign investors (according to Wikipedia). However, it also faces challenges such as a lack of natural resources and regional instability, which have impacted economic growth (according to Wikipedia).
The unemployment rate in Jordan has been a persistent issue, reaching 21.20% in the fourth quarter of 2025 (according to Trading Economics). The national minimum wage is set at 260 JOD per month (according to TimeCamp Statistics).
Major Employers
The industrial and manufacturing sector is a significant employer in Jordan, contributing to positive employment growth (according to the World Bank). This sector employs over 250,000 workers, with Jordanians making up over 90% of the workforce (according to the World Bank). Key industries include phosphate fertilizers and minerals, petroleum products, food processing, and cement (according to Wikipedia).
Notable companies in Jordan include Arab Bank, Arab Potash Company, and Jordan Phosphates Mines Co. (according to Wikipedia). In the IT sector, companies like Estarta Solutions are prominent (according to Best Places to Work Certification).
Salaries and Wages
The average monthly salary in Jordan typically ranges from around 600 to 800 JOD (approximately $850 to $1130 USD) (according to TimeCamp Statistics). The median monthly income is approximately 540 JOD (about $760 USD) (according to Remote People).
The average monthly wage in Jordan stood at JD544 in 2022, with male employees earning slightly more than female employees (according to Jordan Times). Public sector employees generally earn more than those in the private sector (according to Jordan Times).
Climate in Jordan
Jordan’s climate is predominantly subtropical arid or semi-arid. It experiences mild, relatively rainy winters and hot, sunny summers (according to Wikipedia). The Jordan Valley, being at a lower altitude, has very mild winters and scorchingly hot summers (according to Wikipedia).
Amman, the capital, located at around 800 meters above sea level, has average temperatures ranging from 8.5°C in January to approximately 27°C in July and August (according to Wikipedia). Rainfall in Amman averages about 245 millimeters per year, with most of it occurring between November and April (according to Wikipedia).
Temperatures and Rainfall
Winter temperatures in the highlands range from 9-13°C, while desert regions can be warmer, between 19-22°C (according to Wikipedia). Summer temperatures in the Jordanian Valley can reach 38-39°C, with desert regions experiencing temperatures between 26-29°C (according to Wikipedia). Approximately 75% of Jordan’s precipitation falls during the winter months (according to Wikipedia).
The country’s climate is influenced by winds like the Dry Sirocco (Khamsin), which can cause significant temperature fluctuations, and the Shamal winds, which contribute to high daytime temperatures (according to Wikipedia). Summers are consistently hot and sunny, while winter weather can be cold, with occasional frost or snow on higher ground (according to Blue Green Atlas).
Education in Jordan
Jordan’s education system aims to provide quality learning opportunities, with a mix of public and private institutions. The country has a relatively young population, and education is a key focus for development.
Public schools in Jordan serve a large number of students, with varying performance levels across different districts. For example, in Minnesota, the Jordan Public Schools district is rated as above average (according to Niche).
School Ratings and Performance
In the United States, Jordan Public Schools in Minnesota have an overall Niche grade of B+ (according to Niche). This district serves approximately 1,877 students, with 49% proficient in math and 56% in reading, based on state test scores (according to Niche).
In Utah, the Jordan School District serves over 59,000 students and is ranked within the top 50% of Utah school districts (according to Niche). This district has a graduation rate of 89% (according to Niche). Some elementary schools within the Jordan District, such as Herriman School and Westland School, have received high ratings (according to SchoolDigger.com).
Demographics of Jordan
Jordan has a population of over 11.1 million inhabitants as of 2023 (according to Wikipedia). The population is diverse, with Jordanians making up a significant portion, alongside a notable presence of refugees and immigrants from Syria, Palestine, Egypt, and Iraq (according to Wikipedia).
The country has a young demographic profile, with a median age of 24.9 years (according to Worldometer). A large majority of the population, about 85.4%, lives in urban areas (according to Worldometer).
Population and Age Distribution
As of mid-2026, Jordan’s population is estimated to be around 11,589,532 people (according to Worldometer). The median age in Jordan is 24.9 years, indicating a youthful population (according to Worldometer). The population growth rate is approximately 3.05% annually, with an average birth rate of 2.8 (according to Wikipedia).
The age structure shows a substantial proportion of the population under 20 years of age (according to Wikipedia). This demographic trend influences various aspects of the country, from education and healthcare needs to the labor market.
Ethnic and Religious Composition
Approximately 98% of Jordanians are Arabs, with many of Palestinian origin (according to Wikipedia). The remaining 2% consist of ethnic minorities such as Circassians, Chechens, Assyrians, Armenians, and Kurds (according to Wikipedia). The primary religion is Islam, with Sunni Muslims forming the vast majority, while Christians constitute a small but significant minority (according to Wikipedia).
In early 2016, about 30% of the population were non-citizens, a figure that included refugees, legal, and illegal immigrants (according to Wikipedia). Jordan is recognized as a major refugee-hosting country per capita, with a significant number of refugees primarily from Palestine, Syria, and Iraq (according to Wikipedia).