RiyadhvsCalgary
Overall
💰+30.9%
Riyadh is 30.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+42.9%
Housing is 42.9% higher
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+53.8%
Food shopping 53.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 30.9%. 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 lower than in Calgary by 30%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Riyadh offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more expensive, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more affordable by approximately 35%. 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 Riyadh can expect to spend approximately SAR 1,307 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. 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 Calgary, 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 Calgary 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
Riyadh
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Riyadh is approximately 30.9% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Calgary salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $65,455 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 35%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Riyadh if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Calgary?
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 Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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