Verified Facts
Economic Indicators
The cost of utilities and internet in Lebanon can range from $100 to $300 per month for a medium-sized apartment, depending on usage and service providers.
Quick Facts
Utility Costs Overview
Lebanon's utility infrastructure is generally well-developed, with most households having access to electricity, water, and gas. However, the cost of utilities can be unstable and fluctuating due to the country's economic situation and inflation rate of 45.2% as of 2024. The cost of utilities also varies by season, with higher electricity costs during the summer months due to increased demand for air conditioning. Additionally, the inflation rate can impact the purchasing power of the local currency, LBP, which may affect the cost of utilities and other essential services.
The quality of utility infrastructure in Lebanon is generally good, with most households having access to a reliable supply of electricity, water, and gas. However, the cost of utilities can be a significant burden for many households, especially those with lower incomes. The GDP per capita PPP of $12,575 in 2023 indicates a relatively high standard of living, but the out-of-pocket health spend of 29.7% in 2023 and education spend of 1.2% of GDP in 2024 suggest that many households may have limited disposable income to spend on utilities and other essential services.
Monthly Utility Bills
| Utility | Small Apt (45 sqm) | Medium Apt (85 sqm) | Large Apt (120 sqm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $50-$100 | $100-$150 | $150-$200 | Varies by season |
| Water | $10-$20 | $20-$30 | $30-$40 | |
| Gas / Heating | $20-$30 | $30-$40 | $40-$50 | |
| Garbage / Municipal | $10-$20 | $20-$30 | $30-$40 | (if separate) |
| Total | $90-$170 | $170-$250 | $250-$330 |
Internet & Phone Plans
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Speed / Allowance | Provider Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet (basic) | $20-$30 | 10-20 Mbps | Ogero, IDM |
| Fiber Internet (fast) | $40-$60 | 50-100 Mbps | Ogero, IDM |
| Mobile Data (prepaid) | $10-$20 | 5-10 GB | Alfa, Touch |
| Mobile Data (postpaid) | $20-$30 | 10-20 GB | Alfa, Touch |
| Phone + Internet Bundle | $50-$100 | varies | Ogero, IDM |
Streaming & Digital Services
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (standard) | $10-$15 | |
| Spotify (premium) | $10-$15 | |
| Local Streaming | $5-$10 | (if applicable) |
Utility Tips
- To set up utilities, it is recommended to contact the service providers directly, such as EDL for electricity and Ogero for internet.
- Prepaid electricity plans can be a good option for households with variable incomes, as they allow for more control over energy consumption.
- The best internet providers in Lebanon include Ogero and IDM, which offer reliable and fast connections.
- To save on utility bills, households can consider investing in energy-efficient appliances and turning off lights and electronics when not in use.
- It is also recommended to regularly review and adjust utility plans to ensure that they meet the household's changing needs and budget.