MelbournevsRiyadh
Overall
💰-35.3%
Melbourne is 35.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-46.2%
Housing is 46.2% lower
Dining
🍽️-41.2%
Restaurants 41.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-35.0%
Food shopping 35.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Melbourne, Australia and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Melbourne is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 35.3%. 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 Melbourne are higher than in Riyadh by 86%. A one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne's city center costs around A$2,200, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Melbourne is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Melbourne versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Melbourne is more expensive, with monthly passes at A$170 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Melbourne is more expensive by approximately 54%. 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 Melbourne can expect to spend approximately A$786 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 A$2,750 monthly in Melbourne 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 Melbourne, 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 Melbourne 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
Melbourne
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melbourne more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Melbourne is approximately 35.3% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Melbourne compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 74% of your Riyadh salary when living in Melbourne. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $36,957 in Melbourne for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Melbourne and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 86%, 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?
Melbourne offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Melbourne if you prioritize earning potential, or Riyadh for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Melbourne vs Riyadh?
In Melbourne, a single person needs approximately A$2,486 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about A$5,550. 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne
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