TaipeivsRiyadh
Overall
💰-15.4%
Taipei is 15.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-12.5%
Housing is 12.5% lower
Dining
🍽️-9.1%
Restaurants 9.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-30.7%
Food shopping 30.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Taipei, Taiwan and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Taipei is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 15.4%. 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 Taipei are higher than in Riyadh by 14%. A one-bedroom apartment in Taipei's city center costs around NT$25,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Taipei costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NT$120 in Taipei versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Taipei is more expensive, with monthly passes at NT$1,280 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Purchasing power in Riyadh is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Taipei.
Grocery shopping in Taipei is more expensive by approximately 44%. 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 Taipei can expect to spend approximately NT$9,880 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 NT$34,580 monthly in Taipei 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 Taipei, 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 Taipei 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
Taipei
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Taipei more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Taipei is approximately 15.4% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Taipei compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Riyadh salary when living in Taipei. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $43,333 in Taipei for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Taipei and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 44%, 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, Taipei provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Taipei if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Taipei vs Riyadh?
In Taipei, a single person needs approximately NT$24,880 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NT$64,580. 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 Taipei and Riyadh 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 Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Taipei
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