RiyadhvsJohannesburg
Overall
💰-12.7%
Riyadh is 12.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-8.6%
Housing is 8.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-4.0%
Restaurants 4.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-19.2%
Food shopping 19.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Johannesburg by approximately 12.7%. 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 Johannesburg by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZAR 10,000.
Dining out in Riyadh costs about the same compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus ZAR 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to ZAR 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Johannesburg.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more expensive by approximately 24%. 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 Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus ZAR 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Johannesburg?
No, Riyadh is approximately 12.7% cheaper than Johannesburg. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 89% of your Johannesburg salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $44,355 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 24%, 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 Johannesburg for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Johannesburg?
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 Johannesburg, these figures are ZAR 12,314 for singles and ZAR 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Johannesburg in 2025 shows notable 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 Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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