Methodology & sources

How typical amounts are estimated

For each country we cover, SpendMath keeps a set of typical monthly amounts: income, rent, groceries, power, fuel, transport, school fees and more. There are separate figures for three kinds of household: a single person renting in a city, a young professional and a family of four. When you choose your country and household type, each of your bills is compared with that set.

The figures come from official statistics offices, central banks, regulators and the other sources listed below. They are estimates for planning, not exact figures for your city or your family, and your own costs may be higher or lower.

Each country shows the date its figures were last reviewed. When figures or rules change, they are checked again and the date is updated.

Other countries

For other countries, typical amounts are worked out as shares of your own income, based on household spending patterns from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey.

The calculator marks these amounts as a rough guide.

Countries and review dates

The table shows each country’s currency, when its figures were last reviewed and how many sources were used. Open a country below to see its sources.

Sources by country