RiyadhvsCairo
Overall
💰-36.4%
Riyadh is 36.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-57.1%
Housing is 57.1% lower
Dining
🍽️-40.0%
Restaurants 40.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-38.5%
Food shopping 38.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Cairo, Egypt reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Cairo by approximately 36.4%. 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 Cairo by 133%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Cairo is approximately EGP 10,000.
Dining out in Riyadh is notably more expensive compared to Cairo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus EGP 150 in Cairo.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to EGP 200 in Cairo.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cairo.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more expensive by approximately 63%. 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 Cairo, the same lifestyle would cost around EGP 4,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus EGP 17,430 in Cairo. 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 Cairo 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 Cairo 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
Cairo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Cairo?
No, Riyadh is approximately 36.4% cheaper than Cairo. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Cairo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 73% of your Cairo salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cairo, you'd need about $36,667 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Cairo?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 133%, 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?
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 Cairo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Cairo?
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 Cairo, these figures are EGP 10,980 for singles and EGP 29,430 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Cairo 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 Cairo to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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