Buenos AiresvsDubai
Overall
💰+100.0%
Buenos Aires is 100.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+200.0%
Housing is 200.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+114.3%
Restaurants 114.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+84.2%
Food shopping 84.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Dubai by approximately 100.0%. 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 Buenos Aires are lower than in Dubai by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.
Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 46%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus AED 8,169 in Dubai. 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
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Dubai, 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 Dubai to Buenos Aires 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
Buenos Aires
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Dubai?
Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 100.0% more expensive than Dubai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.0x of your Dubai salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $100,000 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 67%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Dubai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Dubai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Dubai?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. In Dubai, these figures are AED 7,334 for singles and AED 18,169 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Dubai in 2025 shows significant 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 Dubai to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires
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