StockholmvsRiyadh
Overall
💰-35.3%
Stockholm is 35.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-41.7%
Housing is 41.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-41.2%
Restaurants 41.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-35.0%
Food shopping 35.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Stockholm, Sweden and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Stockholm is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 35.3%. 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 Stockholm are higher than in Riyadh by 71%. A one-bedroom apartment in Stockholm's city center costs around SEK 15,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Stockholm is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SEK 120 in Stockholm versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Stockholm is more expensive, with monthly passes at SEK 970 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Stockholm is more expensive by approximately 54%. 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 Stockholm can expect to spend approximately SEK 4,702 per month (excluding rent), while in Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SAR 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about SEK 16,457 monthly in Stockholm versus SAR 4,575 in Riyadh. 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 Stockholm, 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 Stockholm 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
Stockholm
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stockholm more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Stockholm is approximately 35.3% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Stockholm compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 74% of your Riyadh salary when living in Stockholm. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $36,957 in Stockholm for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Stockholm and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 71%, 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?
Stockholm offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Stockholm provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Stockholm if you prioritize earning potential, or Riyadh for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Stockholm vs Riyadh?
In Stockholm, a single person needs approximately SEK 15,702 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SEK 34,457. In Riyadh, these figures are SAR 3,307 for singles and SAR 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Stockholm and Riyadh 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Stockholm
Calculate Salary Equivalence