RiyadhvsRio de Janeiro
Overall
💰-18.2%
Riyadh is 18.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-24.0%
Restaurants 24.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-19.2%
Food shopping 19.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more affordable than Rio de Janeiro 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 higher than in Rio de Janeiro by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Rio de Janeiro is approximately R$2,500.
Dining out in Riyadh is notably more expensive compared to Rio de Janeiro. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus R$30 in Rio de Janeiro.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to R$190 in Rio de Janeiro.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Rio de Janeiro.
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 Rio de Janeiro, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,114. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh versus R$3,899 in Rio de Janeiro. 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 Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro 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
Rio de Janeiro
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Rio de Janeiro?
No, Riyadh is approximately 18.2% cheaper than Rio de Janeiro. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Rio de Janeiro?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 85% of your Rio de Janeiro salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Rio de Janeiro, you'd need about $42,308 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Rio de Janeiro?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 32%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. 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 Rio de Janeiro for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Rio de Janeiro?
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 Rio de Janeiro, these figures are R$2,714 for singles and R$6,899 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Riyadh and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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