RiyadhvsCasablanca
Overall
💰-23.6%
Riyadh is 23.6%cheaper
Rent
🏠-37.1%
Housing is 37.1% lower
Dining
🍽️-24.0%
Restaurants 24.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-23.1%
Food shopping 23.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Casablanca, Morocco reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Casablanca by approximately 23.6%. 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 Casablanca by 59%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Casablanca is approximately MAD 6,000.
Dining out in Riyadh is notably more expensive compared to Casablanca. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus MAD 50 in Casablanca.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to MAD 300 in Casablanca.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Casablanca.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more expensive by approximately 30%. 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 Casablanca, the same lifestyle would cost around MAD 2,364. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus MAD 8,274 in Casablanca. 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 Casablanca 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 Casablanca 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
Casablanca
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Casablanca?
No, Riyadh is approximately 23.6% cheaper than Casablanca. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Casablanca?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 81% of your Casablanca salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Casablanca, you'd need about $40,441 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Casablanca?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 59%, 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 Casablanca for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Casablanca?
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 Casablanca, these figures are MAD 5,864 for singles and MAD 15,274 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Casablanca 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 Casablanca to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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