DohavsRiyadh
Overall
💰-15.4%
Doha is 15.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-36.4%
Housing is 36.4% lower
Dining
🍽️-23.1%
Restaurants 23.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-13.3%
Food shopping 13.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Doha, Qatar and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Doha is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 15.4%. 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 Doha are higher than in Riyadh by 57%. A one-bedroom apartment in Doha's city center costs around QAR 7,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Doha is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs QAR 35 in Doha versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Doha is more expensive, with monthly passes at QAR 200 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Doha is more expensive by approximately 15%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Doha can expect to spend approximately QAR 1,876 per month (excluding rent), while in Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SAR 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about QAR 6,566 monthly in Doha versus SAR 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
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Riyadh to Doha, 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 Doha to Riyadh 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
Doha
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Doha more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Doha is approximately 15.4% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Doha compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Riyadh salary when living in Doha. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $43,333 in Doha for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Doha and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 57%, 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?
Doha offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Doha provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Doha if you prioritize earning potential, or Riyadh for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Doha vs Riyadh?
In Doha, a single person needs approximately QAR 6,376 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about QAR 15,566. In Riyadh, these figures are SAR 3,307 for singles and SAR 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Doha and Riyadh in 2025 shows notable 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 Doha
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