BangkokvsRiyadh
Overall
đź’°+10.0%
Bangkok is 10.0%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
đź›’-5.5%
Food shopping 5.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Bangkok, Thailand and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Bangkok is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 10.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Bangkok are similar than in Riyadh. A one-bedroom apartment in Bangkok's city center costs around THBÂ 20,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARÂ 3,000.
Dining out in Bangkok offers significant savings compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs THBÂ 80 in Bangkok versus SARÂ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Bangkok is more expensive, with monthly passes at THBÂ 1,200 compared to SARÂ 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Bangkok.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Bangkok can expect to spend approximately THBÂ 8,710 per month (excluding rent), while in Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SARÂ 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about THBÂ 30,485 monthly in Bangkok versus SARÂ 4,575 in Riyadh. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Bangkok to Riyadh, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Riyadh to Bangkok requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Bangkok
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bangkok more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Bangkok is approximately 10.0% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Bangkok compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Riyadh salary when living in Bangkok. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $55,000 in Bangkok for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Bangkok and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 30%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Riyadh offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Riyadh provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Bangkok if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Bangkok vs Riyadh?
In Bangkok, a single person needs approximately THBÂ 18,710 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about THBÂ 55,485. In Riyadh, these figures are SARÂ 3,307 for singles and SARÂ 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Bangkok and Riyadh in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Bangkok
Calculate Salary Equivalence