CairovsRio de Janeiro
Overall
💰+28.6%
Cairo is 28.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠+86.7%
Housing is 86.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+26.7%
Restaurants 26.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+31.3%
Food shopping 31.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cairo, Egypt and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cairo is more expensive than Rio de Janeiro by approximately 28.6%. 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 Cairo are lower than in Rio de Janeiro by 46%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cairo's city center costs around EGP 10,000, while the same in Rio de Janeiro is approximately R$2,500.
Dining out in Cairo offers significant savings compared to Rio de Janeiro. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs EGP 150 in Cairo versus R$30 in Rio de Janeiro.
Public transportation in Cairo is more expensive, with monthly passes at EGP 200 compared to R$190 in Rio de Janeiro.
Grocery shopping in Cairo is more affordable by approximately 24%. 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 Cairo can expect to spend approximately EGP 4,980 per month (excluding rent), while in Rio de Janeiro, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,114. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about EGP 17,430 monthly in Cairo versus R$3,899 in Rio de Janeiro. 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 Cairo to Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro to Cairo 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
Cairo
Rio de Janeiro
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cairo more expensive than Rio de Janeiro?
Yes, Cairo is approximately 28.6% more expensive than Rio de Janeiro overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Cairo compared to Rio de Janeiro?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Rio de Janeiro salary when living in Cairo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Rio de Janeiro, you'd need about $64,286 in Cairo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cairo and Rio de Janeiro?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 46%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Rio de Janeiro offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Rio de Janeiro provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cairo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Rio de Janeiro for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cairo vs Rio de Janeiro?
In Cairo, a single person needs approximately EGP 10,980 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about EGP 29,430. In Rio de Janeiro, these figures are R$2,714 for singles and R$6,899 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Cairo and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro to maintain your lifestyle from Cairo
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