Tel AvivvsRiyadh
Overall
💰-38.9%
Tel Aviv is 38.9%cheaper
Rent
🏠-50.0%
Housing is 50.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-47.4%
Restaurants 47.4% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-38.8%
Food shopping 38.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Tel Aviv, Israel and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tel Aviv is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 38.9%. 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 Tel Aviv are higher than in Riyadh by 100%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tel Aviv's city center costs around ₪6,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Tel Aviv is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₪60 in Tel Aviv versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Tel Aviv is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₪213 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Tel Aviv is more expensive by approximately 63%. 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 Tel Aviv can expect to spend approximately ₪2,001 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 ₪7,004 monthly in Tel Aviv 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 Tel Aviv, 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 Tel Aviv 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
Tel Aviv
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tel Aviv more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Tel Aviv is approximately 38.9% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Tel Aviv compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 72% of your Riyadh salary when living in Tel Aviv. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $36,000 in Tel Aviv for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Tel Aviv and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 100%, 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?
Riyadh offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Tel Aviv provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Tel Aviv if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tel Aviv vs Riyadh?
In Tel Aviv, a single person needs approximately ₪6,501 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₪14,504. 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 Tel Aviv 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 Tel Aviv
Calculate Salary Equivalence