Key facts
- Consumer prices in September were nearly 90% higher than a year earlier.
- Food and beverage costs were 121.8% higher than a year ago.
- The minimum monthly cost of living for a three-person family was estimated at $336.
- The average monthly wage was roughly $92 at the free-market exchange rate.
- Rents in September were 32.8% higher than a year earlier.
- The official unemployment rate climbed to 9.1% in the spring.
Iranian families are facing severe economic hardship, cutting back on essentials like food, housing, and education due to soaring inflation and job losses. The conflict with the United States, which began on February 28, has disrupted oil exports and trade, exacerbating the effects of sanctions and economic mismanagement. Consumer prices have risen by nearly 90% year-on-year, with food prices increasing by over 121%. Many families struggle to cover basic expenses on wages that are a fraction of the minimum cost of living. Unemployment has risen, and the weakening rial has closed off opportunities like studying abroad. Businesses are also under pressure from increased import costs and weakening demand.