Astana city
Astana is the young and ambitious capital of Kazakhstan, a true futuristic oasis in the middle of the steppe.
The city is striking with its architecture, where innovative skyscrapers stand alongside unique landmarks designed by the world's best architects. For students, this is a city of limitless opportunities, combining modern educational infrastructure with a dynamically developing business community.
Thanks to its rapid development, the active implementation of international education standards, safety, and a comfortable environment, Astana annually attracts thousands of students from different corners of the country and the world.
However, living in a new type of capital has its own specific features.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key aspects of student life in Astana—from the economy and housing to transport and climate.
💰Economy & Cost of Living
Astana is the business center of the country, and the cost of living here reflects its status as the capital. Nevertheless, there are many opportunities for students to balance their budget and live in comfortable conditions.
Average student expenses in Astana:
Housing Rental: Rental costs depend on proximity to universities and whether it is on the Right or Left Bank (the Left Bank is newer and more expensive). Renting a room or a shared apartment will cost 150–300 USD per month. Living in a dormitory is significantly more affordable.
Food: High-quality food costs about 150–200 USD per month. There are many affordable supermarkets and chain canteens in the city.
Transport: Public transport in Astana is modern and convenient. A monthly travel pass costs about 10–15 USD.
Additional Expenses: Entertainment, trips to modern shopping and entertainment centers, and cultural events cost approximately 70–120 USD per month.
💡 Tip: Use the "TransCard" transport card to pay for fares—it is significantly more cost-effective than paying in cash.
🏠Student Accommodation
Several accommodation options are available for students in Astana:
University Dormitories: The most economical and popular option. The cost ranges from 30 to 80 USD per month. This allows you to stay at the center of student life.
Room Rental in an Apartment: A common accommodation method that allows you to live in modern residential complexes, sharing expenses with other students.
Private Apartment: An option for those who value a high level of comfort and privacy.
As a company, Student’s Life, we help students find safe and comfortable housing that meets their needs. The cost of accommodation for one year is often included in our educational packages in Kazakhstan.
🚇Transport & Infrastructure
Astana possesses a developed transport system adapted to the needs of a modern city.
Bus Network: The main mode of transport, covering all districts of the city. Modern buses are equipped with GPS tracking systems.
Taxi Services: Taxi-hailing apps (Yandex Go and others) are highly developed in Astana, offering services at quite affordable prices.
Bicycles and Electric Scooters: During the summer period, Astana becomes a paradise for micro-mobility enthusiasts—excellent bike lanes are laid out all across the Left Bank.
🌦️Climate
stana features a sharply continental climate with severe snowy winters and quite hot summers.SeasonTemperatureFeatures❄️ Winter (Nov–Mar)-10°C to -25°CLong, cold, and windy winter.☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug)+20°C…+30°CWarm, in places hot, and sunny summer.💡 Tip: Astana is known for its steppe winds, so warm clothing (a high-quality down jacket, a hat, and windproof footwear) is not just a necessity but the foundation of your comfort from late autumn to early spring.