Buenos AiresvsRiyadh
Overall
š°+37.5%
Buenos Aires is 37.5%more expensive
Rent
š+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
š½ļø+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
š+36.8%
Food shopping 36.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 37.5%. 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 Riyadh by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARSĀ 400,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARĀ 3,000.
Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARSĀ 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus SARĀ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARSĀ 2,500 compared to SARĀ 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh 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 27%. 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 ARSĀ 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SARĀ 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARSĀ 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus SARĀ 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
š Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
š½ļø Food & Dining
š Groceries
š Transportation
š” Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Buenos Aires 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 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
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 37.5% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Riyadh salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $68,750 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Riyadh?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARSĀ 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARSĀ 956,650. In Riyadh, these figures are SARĀ 3,307 for singles and SARĀ 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Riyadh 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires
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