SantiagovsDoha
Overall
💰+18.2%
Santiago is 18.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+57.1%
Housing is 57.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+30.0%
Restaurants 30.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+9.1%
Food shopping 9.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Santiago, Chile and Doha, Qatar reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Santiago is more expensive than Doha 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 Santiago are lower than in Doha by 36%. A one-bedroom apartment in Santiago's city center costs around CLP 500,000, while the same in Doha is approximately QAR 7,000.
Dining out in Santiago offers significant savings compared to Doha. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CLP 7,000 in Santiago versus QAR 35 in Doha.
Public transportation in Santiago is more expensive, with monthly passes at CLP 33,000 compared to QAR 200 in Doha.
Purchasing power in Doha is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Santiago.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Santiago can expect to spend approximately CLP 286,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Doha, the same lifestyle would cost around QAR 1,876. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CLP 1,003,100 monthly in Santiago versus QAR 6,566 in Doha. 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 Santiago to Doha, 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 Doha to Santiago 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
Santiago
Doha
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santiago more expensive than Doha?
Yes, Santiago is approximately 18.2% more expensive than Doha overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Santiago compared to Doha?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Doha salary when living in Santiago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Doha, you'd need about $59,091 in Santiago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Santiago and Doha?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 36%, 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?
Doha offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Doha provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Santiago if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Doha for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Santiago vs Doha?
In Santiago, a single person needs approximately CLP 636,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CLP 1,653,100. In Doha, these figures are QAR 6,376 for singles and QAR 15,566 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Santiago and Doha 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Doha to maintain your lifestyle from Santiago
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