BudapestvsRiyadh
Overall
đź’°+5.8%
Budapest is 5.8%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+11.1%
Restaurants 11.1% pricier
Groceries
đź›’+8.3%
Food shopping 8.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Budapest, Hungary and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Budapest is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 5.8%. 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 Budapest are similar than in Riyadh. A one-bedroom apartment in Budapest's city center costs around HUFÂ 200,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARÂ 3,000.
Dining out in Budapest costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs HUFÂ 2,000 in Budapest versus SARÂ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Budapest is more expensive, with monthly passes at HUFÂ 9,500 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 Budapest.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Budapest can expect to spend approximately HUFÂ 94,600 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 HUFÂ 331,100 monthly in Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest 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
Budapest
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Budapest more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Budapest is approximately 5.8% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Budapest compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Riyadh salary when living in Budapest. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $52,885 in Budapest for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Budapest and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 10%, 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 Budapest if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Budapest vs Riyadh?
In Budapest, a single person needs approximately HUFÂ 234,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about HUFÂ 581,100. 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 Budapest 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 Budapest
Calculate Salary Equivalence