Rio de JaneirovsRiyadh
Overall
💰+22.2%
Rio de Janeiro is 22.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+31.6%
Restaurants 31.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒+23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro are lower than in Riyadh by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro's city center costs around R$2,500, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Rio de Janeiro offers significant savings compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in Rio de Janeiro versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Rio de Janeiro is more expensive, with monthly passes at R$190 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Rio de Janeiro.
Grocery shopping in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro can expect to spend approximately R$1,114 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 R$3,899 monthly in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro 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
Rio de Janeiro
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rio de Janeiro more expensive than Riyadh?
Yes, Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Riyadh salary when living in Rio de Janeiro. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $61,111 in Rio de Janeiro for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Rio de Janeiro and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 24%, 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 Rio de Janeiro if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Rio de Janeiro vs Riyadh?
In Rio de Janeiro, a single person needs approximately R$2,714 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about R$6,899. 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 Rio de Janeiro 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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Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Rio de Janeiro
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