LagosvsRiyadh
Overall
đź’°+37.5%
Lagos is 37.5%more expensive
Rent
đźŹ+16.7%
Housing is 16.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+42.9%
Restaurants 42.9% pricier
Groceries
đź›’+15.6%
Food shopping 15.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lagos, Nigeria and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lagos is more expensive than Riyadh by approximately 37.5%. 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 Lagos are lower than in Riyadh by 14%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lagos's city center costs around NGNÂ 800,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SARÂ 3,000.
Dining out in Lagos offers significant savings compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NGNÂ 3,000 in Lagos versus SARÂ 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Lagos is more expensive, with monthly passes at NGNÂ 20,000 compared to SARÂ 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lagos.
Grocery shopping in Lagos 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 Lagos can expect to spend approximately NGNÂ 174,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SARÂ 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NGNÂ 611,100 monthly in Lagos versus SARÂ 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
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lagos 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 Lagos 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
Lagos
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lagos more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Lagos is approximately 37.5% more expensive than Riyadh overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lagos compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Riyadh salary when living in Lagos. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $68,750 in Lagos for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lagos 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 Lagos if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lagos vs Riyadh?
In Lagos, a single person needs approximately NGNÂ 574,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NGNÂ 1,611,100. In Riyadh, these figures are SARÂ 3,307 for singles and SARÂ 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lagos 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Lagos
Calculate Salary Equivalence