Very affordable costs (CPI: 27.76). Groceries (31.01) and restaurants (24.34) are particularly inexpensive compared to major global cities.

Property prices average 13.98 years of household income, indicating an expensive market. The rental market (index: 10.86) is significantly more affordable.

A purchasing power index of 51.31 suggests low buying power compared to NYC, indicating lower average incomes relative to local costs.

Uzbekistan has a flat personal income tax rate of 12% for both residents and non-residents. The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 12%. Property tax for individuals varies by property size and location, with rates from 0.34% to 0.6% for residential properties. Employers contribute 12% to social tax, while employees contribute 6% to various social funds.

Uzbekistan's business environment is improving, with its startup ecosystem ranked #98 globally in 2025. The government actively supports digital transformation and attracts foreign investment through initiatives like the IT Visa and IT Park Uzbekistan, which offers tax incentives. Reforms are simplifying business registration and reducing bureaucracy, though challenges in competition policy remain.

Uzbekistan offers a national healthcare system for citizens, though expats often rely on private, fee-based services due to varying quality in public facilities. The pension system is multi-tiered, with eligibility based on age and work experience, and voluntary contributions for migrants. Unemployment benefits are available for three months with stricter eligibility criteria as of November 2025.

Deposits in Uzbekistan are protected up to 200 million soums (approximately USD 15,400) per depositor per bank under the Law 'On Guarantees of Protection of Deposits in Banks'. The banking sector is considered stable and well-capitalized, with ongoing reforms to align with international standards. However, some structural weaknesses and emerging risks, including a projected peak in impaired loans, have been noted.