RiyadhvsBuenos Aires
Overall
💰-27.3%
Riyadh is 27.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-28.6%
Housing is 28.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-30.0%
Restaurants 30.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-26.9%
Food shopping 26.9% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Buenos Aires, Argentina reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Buenos Aires by approximately 27.3%. 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 Riyadh are higher than in Buenos Aires by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Buenos Aires is approximately ARS 400,000.
Dining out in Riyadh is notably more expensive compared to Buenos Aires. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to ARS 2,500 in Buenos Aires.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more expensive by approximately 37%. 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 Riyadh can expect to spend approximately SAR 1,307 per month (excluding rent), while in Buenos Aires, the same lifestyle would cost around ARS 101,900. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus ARS 356,650 in Buenos Aires. 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 Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires 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
Riyadh
Buenos Aires
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Buenos Aires?
No, Riyadh is approximately 27.3% cheaper than Buenos Aires. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Buenos Aires?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Buenos Aires salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Buenos Aires, you'd need about $39,286 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Buenos Aires?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 43%, 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 Riyadh if you prioritize earning potential, or Buenos Aires for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Buenos Aires?
In Riyadh, a single person needs approximately SAR 3,307 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SAR 8,575. In Buenos Aires, these figures are ARS 401,900 for singles and ARS 956,650 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Buenos Aires 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 Buenos Aires to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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