Cape TownvsRiyadh
Overall
š°+10.0%
Cape Town is 10.0%more expensive
Rent
š0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
š½ļø0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
š+15.6%
Food shopping 15.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cape Town, South Africa and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cape Town 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 Cape Town are similar than in Riyadh. A one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town's city center costs around ZARĀ 12,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARĀ 3,000.
Dining out in Cape Town costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZARĀ 150 in Cape Town versus SARĀ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Cape Town is more expensive, with monthly passes at ZARĀ 800 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 Cape Town.
Grocery shopping in Cape Town is more affordable by approximately 13%. 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 Cape Town can expect to spend approximately ZARĀ 5,890 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 ZARĀ 20,615 monthly in Cape Town 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 Cape Town 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 Cape Town 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
Cape Town
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Cape Town 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 Cape Town compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Riyadh salary when living in Cape Town. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $55,000 in Cape Town for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cape Town and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 13%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 Cape Town if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cape Town vs Riyadh?
In Cape Town, a single person needs approximately ZARĀ 13,890 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ZARĀ 38,615. 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 Cape Town 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Cape Town
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