RiyadhvsMontreal
Overall
💰+18.2%
Riyadh is 18.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+14.3%
Housing is 14.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+36.0%
Restaurants 36.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+44.2%
Food shopping 44.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Montreal, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more expensive than Montreal by approximately 18.2%. 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 Montreal by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Montreal is approximately CA$1,500.
Dining out in Riyadh offers significant savings compared to Montreal. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus CA$18 in Montreal.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more expensive, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to CA$94 in Montreal.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh is more affordable by approximately 31%. 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 Montreal, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$570. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus CA$1,994 in Montreal. 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 Montreal, 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 Montreal 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
Montreal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Montreal?
Yes, Riyadh is approximately 18.2% more expensive than Montreal overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Montreal?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Montreal salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Montreal, you'd need about $59,091 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Montreal?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 31%, 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, Montreal provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Riyadh if you prioritize earning potential, or Montreal for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Montreal?
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 Montreal, these figures are CA$1,670 for singles and CA$3,894 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Montreal 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 Montreal to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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