VancouvervsRiyadh
Overall
💰-31.3%
Vancouver is 31.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-56.3%
Housing is 56.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-35.0%
Food shopping 35.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more affordable than Riyadh by approximately 31.3%. 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 Vancouver are higher than in Riyadh by 129%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Vancouver is notably more expensive compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Vancouver 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 Vancouver can expect to spend approximately CA$698 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$2,443 monthly in Vancouver 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 Vancouver, 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 Vancouver 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
Vancouver
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Vancouver is approximately 31.3% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 76% of your Riyadh salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $38,095 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 129%, 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?
Riyadh offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Vancouver provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Riyadh for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Riyadh?
In Vancouver, a single person needs approximately CA$2,798 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$5,943. 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 Vancouver 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 Vancouver
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