TorontovsRiyadh
Overall
💰-26.7%
Toronto is 26.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-50.0%
Housing is 50.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-30.7%
Food shopping 30.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Toronto, Canada and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Toronto is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 26.7%. 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 Toronto are higher than in Riyadh by 100%. A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto's city center costs around CA$2,400, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Toronto is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Toronto versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Toronto is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$156 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Toronto 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 Toronto can expect to spend approximately CA$739 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 CA$2,588 monthly in Toronto 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 Toronto, 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 Toronto 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
Toronto
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toronto more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Toronto is approximately 26.7% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Toronto compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Riyadh salary when living in Toronto. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $39,474 in Toronto for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Toronto 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 smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Toronto offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Toronto provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Toronto if you prioritize earning potential, or Riyadh for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Toronto vs Riyadh?
In Toronto, a single person needs approximately CA$2,639 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$5,588. 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 Toronto 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 Toronto
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