JakartavsRiyadh
Overall
š°+22.2%
Jakarta is 22.2%more expensive
Rent
š+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
š½ļø+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
š+4.0%
Food shopping 4.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Jakarta, Indonesia and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Jakarta is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 22.2%. 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 Jakarta are lower than in Riyadh by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Jakarta's city center costs around IDRĀ 8,000,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARĀ 3,000.
Dining out in Jakarta offers significant savings compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs IDRĀ 35,000 in Jakarta versus SARĀ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Jakarta is more expensive, with monthly passes at IDRĀ 150,000 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 Jakarta.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Jakarta can expect to spend approximately IDRĀ 3,350,000 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 IDRĀ 11,725,000 monthly in Jakarta 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 Jakarta 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 Jakarta 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
Jakarta
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jakarta more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Jakarta is approximately 22.2% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Jakarta compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Riyadh salary when living in Jakarta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $61,111 in Jakarta for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Jakarta 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 Jakarta if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Jakarta vs Riyadh?
In Jakarta, a single person needs approximately IDRĀ 7,850,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about IDRĀ 21,725,000. 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 Jakarta 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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