Saudi Arabia
Cost of Living in Riyadh
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 31.3Rent: 15.1Groceries: 44.5Restaurant: 37.7
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$789/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$1,205/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$1,563/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $566 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $398 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $313 |
| Restaurant Meal | $14 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $33 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $83 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Riyadh?
Compare Riyadh with other cities at specific budget levels:
Other Cities in Saudi Arabia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Riyadh?
A minimal monthly budget in Riyadh is approximately $789, a typical budget is $1,205, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $1,563 per month.
How much is rent in Riyadh?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Riyadh city center costs approximately $566/month. Outside the center, expect around $398/month.
Is Riyadh expensive compared to New York?
Riyadh's COL+Rent Index is 31.3 compared to New York's 100, meaning Riyadh is about 69% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Riyadh?
Monthly groceries in Riyadh cost approximately $313. The city's Groceries Index is 44.5 (NYC = 100).