RiyadhvsCape Town
Overall
💰-9.1%
Riyadh is 9.1%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-13.5%
Food shopping 13.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Cape Town by approximately 9.1%. 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 similar than in Cape Town. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZAR 12,000.
Dining out in Riyadh costs about the same compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus ZAR 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to ZAR 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cape Town.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more expensive by approximately 16%. 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 Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus ZAR 20,615 in Cape Town. 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 Cape Town 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 Cape Town 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
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Cape Town?
No, Riyadh is approximately 9.1% cheaper than Cape Town. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 92% of your Cape Town salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $45,833 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 16%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 Cape Town for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Cape Town?
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 Cape Town, these figures are ZAR 13,890 for singles and ZAR 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Cape Town in 2025 shows moderate 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 Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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