JohannesburgvsRiyadh
Overall
š°+14.6%
Johannesburg is 14.6%more expensive
Rent
š+9.4%
Housing is 9.4% higher
Dining
š½ļø+4.2%
Restaurants 4.2% pricier
Groceries
š+23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Johannesburg, South Africa and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Johannesburg is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 14.6%. 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 Johannesburg are lower than in Riyadh by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Johannesburg's city center costs around ZARĀ 10,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARĀ 3,000.
Dining out in Johannesburg costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZARĀ 130 in Johannesburg versus SARĀ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg.
Grocery shopping in Johannesburg is more affordable by approximately 19%. 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 Johannesburg can expect to spend approximately ZARĀ 5,314 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 18,599 monthly in Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johannesburg more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Johannesburg is approximately 14.6% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Johannesburg compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Riyadh salary when living in Johannesburg. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $57,292 in Johannesburg for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Johannesburg and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 19%, 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 Johannesburg if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Johannesburg vs Riyadh?
In Johannesburg, a single person needs approximately ZARĀ 12,314 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ZARĀ 33,599. 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 Johannesburg 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Johannesburg
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