Cost of Living in Riyadh: 8 Shocking Expenses

✍️ Written by Waqas | ⏱️ Read Time: 14 minutes | 📅 Last Updated: Sep 15, 2025

Introduction

Cost of Living in Riyadh is one of the biggest questions for anyone planning to move to the capital of Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is the Kingdom’s largest city and the center of business, culture, and rapid growth under Vision 2030. Expats, professionals, and families are drawn here for work opportunities and a modern lifestyle. But with its mix of luxury living and affordable options, many people wonder: what are the real living expenses in Riyadh? From housing and food to transportation and utilities, let’s break down the costs so you can plan your monthly budget with confidence.

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Below is an estimated breakdown of common expenses in Riyadh, shown in Saudi Riyals (SAR) with their approximate value in US Dollars (USD). For reference, 1 USD is roughly equal to 3.75 SAR, though exchange rates may change slightly over time.

1- Accommodation

The cost of living in Riyadh is greatly influenced by housing. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options—from affordable apartments in local neighborhoods to premium villas in gated expat compounds. Rental prices vary depending on location, facilities, and the property’s condition.

Accommodation Costs in Riyadh (SAR)

Category	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre (per month)	4,529.97	2,500 – 8,000
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre (per month)	2,986.54	2,000 – 4,500
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre (per month)	7,740.62	4,000 – 19,000
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre (per month)	4,056.00	2,000 – 7,200
Price per Sq. Ft. to Buy Apartment in City Centre (one-time purchase)	736.91	529.54 – 1,099.99
Price per Sq. Ft. to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre (one-time purchase)	490.52	325.16 – 854.70
3-4 Bedroom Villa in a Compound (per year)	140,000	80,000 – 200,000

Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Riyadh: Rent and property prices vary based on several key factors. Newer buildings and apartments located near business districts like King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) tend to be more expensive. Popular expat neighborhoods such as Al Olaya, the Diplomatic Quarter, and Al Hamra also command higher rents. Furnished apartments come at a premium, while villas and compounds offer a Western-style living experience with shared facilities like pools, gyms, and schools, along with enhanced security—making them more costly but comfortable for families.

2- Transportation Costs in Riyadh

Getting around Riyadh is generally affordable, whether you use public transport, taxis, ride-hailing apps, or your own car. Understanding these costs can help you plan your monthly budget and overall cost of living in Riyadh.

Public Transportation

The Riyadh Metro is modern, fast, and comfortable. A two-hour ticket costs around SAR 4, while a monthly 30-day pass is about SAR 140. Tickets can be purchased through the Darb app, Darb card, or using Apple Pay/bank cards.

Riyadh also has a comprehensive public bus network managed by SAPTCO. Single-trip fares start at SAR 4 for two hours, and monthly passes are available for SAR 140, making buses a budget-friendly option for daily commuting.

Ride-Hailing & Taxis

Getting a taxi in Riyadh is easy. Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber, Careem, and the official national app Taxi – أجرة are widely used. For phone-based bookings, you can call SAFWA Taxi at +966 92 001 0068. Other local apps such as Kaiian and Jeeny are also available for convenient ride bookings throughout the city. Taxi fares usually start at SAR 5–6, with additional charges per kilometer, while ride-hailing apps offer flexible pricing for short and long trips.

Intercity Travel

Traveling between cities from Riyadh is convenient with multiple options. You can use intercity buses operated by SAPTCO or SAT, which offer various routes and amenities. For train travel, check the Saudi Railways Organization (SAR) website for schedules and ticket prices. If you prefer a more personalized or direct experience, private transfer services like Yelo Limousine, NAYLAM, or Uber Intercity are also available.

Car Ownership & Fuel

Riyadh is a car-centric city, so owning or renting a vehicle is an important part of the cost of living in Riyadh.

• New Cars: A brand-new compact car typically costs between SAR 60,000 and 90,000 (approximately USD 16,000–24,000). Larger or luxury models are significantly higher.
• Used Cars: Prices for second-hand vehicles vary widely depending on the model, year, and condition. Cars can start from SAR 15,000, with premium models costing more.
• Car Rentals: Monthly car rentals usually range from SAR 1,500 to 3,000, depending on vehicle type and rental duration.

Fuel Costs
Fuel is generally affordable in Riyadh, but monthly usage can add up depending on how much you drive. Here’s the latest pricing:

Fuel Type	Price (SAR/Liter)
Gasoline 91	2.18 SAR per liter
Gasoline 95	2.33 SAR per liter
Diesel	1.66 SAR per liter
LPG	1.09 SAR per liter
Kerosene	1.59 SAR per liter

Tips to Save on Transportation

• Use ride-hailing apps for short trips to save on fuel.
• Consider a metro pass once more lines open for daily commuting.
• Plan long-distance travel with buses or trains to reduce car-related expenses.

3- Food & Groceries in Riyadh

Food and groceries are a significant part of the cost of living in Riyadh, but you can manage expenses depending on where and how you shop.

• Monthly Grocery Costs:
  • Single person: Around SAR 800–1,500
  • Family of 4: Around SAR 2,500–4,000

Shopping at hypermarkets like Carrefour, Lulu, or Panda can save money, especially when buying in bulk. Imported Western products are generally more expensive, so opting for locally sourced goods can help reduce costs.

• Eating Out:
  • Budget meal (local restaurants or shawarma): SAR 20–40 per person
  • Mid-range restaurant (per person): SAR 80–150
  • Fine dining (per person): SAR 200+

Riyadh has a wide range of restaurants, from inexpensive local eateries to premium international dining, making it easy to choose based on your budget.

Here’s a look at typical prices for groceries and daily essentials in Riyadh, so you can plan your budget better.

Item	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Milk (regular, 1 gallon)	24.10	18.93–34.07
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb)	4.13	1.81–7.26
Rice (white, 1 lb)	3.79	2.27–5.44
Eggs (regular, 12 pcs)	9.31	6.00–19.60
Local Cheese (1 lb)	13.92	8.16–29.94
Chicken Fillets (1 lb)	14.24	7.89–20.41
Beef Round (1 lb)	22.16	13.61–27.22
Apples (1 lb)	3.81	2.27–4.99
Banana (1 lb)	2.86	2.27–4.54
Oranges (1 lb)	3.02	1.59–6.80
Tomato (1 lb)	2.82	1.81–4.54
Potato (1 lb)	2.20	1.36–4.08
Onion (1 lb)	2.44	1.36–4.54
Lettuce (1 head)	4.67	1.50–8.00
Water (1.5 L bottle)	2.23	1.80–3.50
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)	19.00	5.00–50.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 L)	6.48	5.00–12.00
Imported Beer (12 oz)	7.76	5.00–12.00
Cigarettes (Marlboro, 20 pack)	27.00	25.00–30.00
Olive Oil (1 liter)	28.00	20.00–35.00
Sugar (1 kg)	5.50	4.00–7.00
Butter (1 lb)	14.00	10.00–20.00

Dining out in Riyadh offers options for every budget. Here’s a breakdown of common restaurant and cafe prices.

Item	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant	31.50	20.00–50.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range, Three-course	200.00	120.00–400.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent)	30.00	28.00–38.00
Domestic Beer (1 pint draught)	8.00	5.00–15.00
Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle)	8.00	5.00–12.00
Cappuccino (regular)	16.48	7.00–23.00
Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle)	2.93	2.50–4.00
Water (12 oz small bottle)	1.25	1.00–3.00

Tips to Save on Food & Groceries:

1. Cook at home whenever possible to save money.
2. Buy local fruits, vegetables, and staples instead of imported goods.
3. Take advantage of promotions at large supermarkets.
4. Consider meal planning to avoid unnecessary spending.

4- Utilities & Communication in Riyadh

Utilities like electricity, water, and internet are an important part of the cost of living in Riyadh. Prices vary depending on apartment size, usage, and provider. Here’s an overview of typical monthly expenses:

• Electricity & Water:
  • Small apartment: SAR 200–500
  • Larger apartment or villa: SAR 500–1,500+
    Usage, especially air conditioning in summer, greatly affects the bill.
• Internet:
  Fiber optic connections are widely available, with fast speeds and reliable service.
  • Home Internet (50–100 Mbps): SAR 200–350
• Mobile Phone Plans:
  Saudi Arabia has competitive mobile plans with a variety of data and call packages.
  • Postpaid unlimited data & calls: SAR 100–250

Here’s a quick look at typical monthly utility and communication costs in Riyadh.

Utility / Service	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Electricity & Water (Small Apartment)	350	200–500
Electricity & Water (Large Apartment/Villa)	1,000	500–1,500+
Home Internet (50–100 Mbps)	275	200–350
Mobile Phone Plans (Postpaid, Unlimited)	175	100–250

Tips to Save on Utilities:

1. Turn off lights, AC, and appliances when not in use.
2. Use energy-efficient appliances.
3. Compare internet and mobile plans for better deals.

5- Healthcare in Riyadh

Healthcare is an essential part of the cost of living in Riyadh, especially for expats. Saudi Arabia has a well-developed healthcare system with both public and private options. Most expats are required to have health insurance, which is often provided by employers.

• Health Insurance:
  Employer-provided health insurance is common. Private plans can cost SAR 3,000–10,000+ per year, depending on coverage. Popular providers include Bupa Arabia, MedGulf, Tawuniya, tameeni, and Al Rajhi Takaful.
• Hospitals & Clinics:
  Riyadh offers world-class healthcare facilities. Some of the most trusted hospitals are:
  • King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre
  • Riyadh Military Hospital (King Saud Medical City)
  • Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group
  • King Khalid University Hospital
  • Al Mouwasat Hospital
• Pharmacies:
  Pharmacies are easily accessible across the city. Popular chains include Tadawi Pharmacy, White Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Company, Al Nahdi Pharmacy, and Al-Dawaa Pharmacies.
• Doctor Visits:
  • General Practitioner: SAR 100–300 per visit (without insurance)
  • Specialist: Higher fees depending on specialty
• Medication:
  Prescription and over-the-counter medications are generally affordable. Local alternatives often cost less than imported brands.

Here’s a summary of typical healthcare costs in Riyadh, including insurance, doctor visits, and medications.

Healthcare Service	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Private Health Insurance (Annual)	6,500	3,000–10,000+
Doctor Visit (General Practitioner)	200	100–300
Medication (Monthly Average)	150	50–300

Tips to Save on Healthcare:

1. Confirm your employer covers your health insurance.
2. Compare clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies for cost-effective options.
3. Use government or public hospitals if eligible.
4. Keep a list of trusted pharmacies for recurring medications.

6- Education in Riyadh

For expat families, education is a significant part of the cost of living in Riyadh. The city offers a wide range of options, from local schools to international institutions. Tuition fees can vary depending on the curriculum, grade level, and school facilities.

• Popular International Schools in Riyadh:
  • Riyadh International Community School (RICS) – British curriculum
  • American International School-Riyadh (AIS-R) – American curriculum
  • British International School Riyadh (BISR) – British curriculum
  • Multinational School Riyadh (MSR) – IB and Indian curriculum
  • International Indian School Riyadh (IISR) – Indian curriculum
• International School Fees:
  Annual tuition fees typically range:
  • Kindergarten/Primary: SAR 25,000–60,000
  • Secondary: SAR 40,000–90,000+
• Local Schools:
  Saudi government schools are free for citizens, but expats often prefer private or international schools for quality education and English-language instruction.
• Factors Affecting Cost:
  • Curriculum type (British, American, IB, Indian, etc.)
  • Grade level and age of the student
  • Facilities such as labs, sports, and extracurricular activities
  • Proximity to your residence

Here’s an overview of typical annual tuition fees for international schools in Riyadh.

Education Level	Average Annual Fee (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Kindergarten / Primary (International)	42,500	25,000–60,000
Secondary (International)	65,000	40,000–90,000+

Tips to Save on Education Costs:

1. Check if your employer offers an education allowance.
2. Compare different schools’ tuition and additional fees before enrollment.
3. Consider schools slightly outside the city center for more affordable options.

7- Entertainment & Lifestyle in Riyadh

Riyadh offers a variety of entertainment options for residents, from modern malls and cinemas to cafes and leisure activities. While some experiences can be luxurious, many are reasonably priced, making it easy to enjoy the city on different budgets.

• Gyms & Fitness:
  Monthly membership fees for gyms typically range from SAR 150–400, depending on the facilities and location. Many compounds and clubs also offer fitness centers as part of their amenities. Popular gym areas include Al Olaya, Al Malaz, and Diplomatic Quarter.
• Cinemas:
  A standard movie ticket usually costs SAR 40–70. Premium formats or VIP screenings are higher. Popular cinema locations are Riyadh Park Mall, Al Nakheel Mall, and Granada Mall.
• Shopping:
  Riyadh is home to numerous shopping destinations. Major malls include Kingdom Centre Mall, Riyadh Park, and Panorama Mall. Prices for clothing, electronics, and daily goods are comparable to international standards, with luxury items priced higher.
• Cafes & Socializing:
  Coffee shops and casual dining are popular social spots. Areas like Tahlia Street, Al Olaya, and Al Nakheel district are full of trendy cafes. Average costs:
  • Coffee and snack: SAR 20–40
  • Casual meal at a café: SAR 30–60
• Leisure Activities:
  Activities like bowling, arcades, and amusement parks typically cost SAR 50–150 per session. Popular family and entertainment spots include King Abdullah Park, Wadi Hanifah, and Riyadh Zoo.

Here’s a look at typical prices for entertainment and lifestyle activities in Riyadh, including popular local spots.

Entertainment / Activity	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Gym Membership (Monthly)	275	150–400
Cinema Ticket (Standard)	55	40–70
Coffee / Snack at Cafe	30	20–40
Leisure Activities (Bowling, Arcades)	100	50–150

Tips to Save on Entertainment:

1. Take advantage of happy hour offers and promotions at cafes and restaurants.
2. Visit malls and entertainment venues during discount seasons.
3. Use fitness apps or home workouts as a cheaper alternative to gym memberships.

8- Miscellaneous Expenses in Riyadh

Apart from housing, transportation, food, healthcare, education, and entertainment, there are other everyday expenses that contribute to the cost of living in Riyadh. These include personal care, grooming, and administrative fees.

• Personal Care & Grooming:
  • Haircut: SAR 30–80 depending on location and salon type. Popular areas for salons include Tahlia Street, Al Olaya, and Diplomatic Quarter.
  • Personal care products like shampoo, soap, and cosmetics: Comparable to international prices, usually SAR 20–100 depending on brand.
• Administrative & Miscellaneous Fees:
  • Visa and Residency (Iqama) fees: Usually handled by your employer. Check the article
  • Banking fees: Some banks charge minor service fees for account maintenance or international transfers.
  • Postal services and courier costs: SAR 10–50 for domestic packages.

Here’s a look at typical miscellaneous expenses in Riyadh, including personal care and daily services.

Item / Service	Average Price (SAR)	Range (SAR)
Haircut	55	30–80
Personal Care Products (Monthly Average)	60	20–100
Postal / Courier Services	30	10–50

Tips to Save on Miscellaneous Costs:

1. Buy personal care products in bulk from supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu.
2. Use local salons and barber shops instead of high-end options for routine haircuts.
3. Compare prices for courier or postal services before sending parcels.

Cost of Living Comparison: Riyadh vs Other Cities

City	Cost of Living Index	Notes
Riyadh	47	Moderate expenses, no income tax, affordable fuel
Dubai	54	Higher housing costs, international city with luxury services
London	83	Expensive housing, food, and transportation
New York	100	Very high cost across all sectors
Jeddah	50	Slightly more affordable than Dubai, housing cheaper than Riyadh’s prime areas
Cairo	35	Significantly lower cost, especially for groceries and housing
Doha	52	Similar to Dubai, but housing can be slightly cheaper

Riyadh is more affordable than Dubai, London, and New York, especially in terms of housing and transportation. Compared to Jeddah, some areas may be slightly pricier, but the city offers modern amenities, reliable services, and a good quality of life. For daily essentials, Riyadh remains reasonable compared to regional cities like Doha and Cairo.

Pros and Cons of Living in Riyadh

Understanding the cost of living in Riyadh also means knowing where you can save and where expenses can be high. Here’s a clear breakdown:

Pros:

• No Income Tax: A huge financial advantage that increases take-home pay.
• Low Fuel Costs: Car travel around the city is relatively cheap.
• Affordable Basic Services: Many daily services and local eateries are reasonably priced.
• High Salary Opportunities: Certain sectors, like finance, healthcare, and IT, offer competitive pay that offsets some living costs.
• Modern Amenities: Malls, restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues are widely available.

Cons:

• High Accommodation Costs: Especially in expat-preferred areas and compounds.
• Expensive International Education: A significant expense for families without employer-provided allowances.
• Dependence on Cars: Public transport is still developing, making car ownership almost essential.
• Imported Goods Premium: Western products and luxury items can be costly.
• Extreme Summer Temperatures: Cooling costs for AC can increase electricity bills.

Pros	Cons
No Income Tax	High Accommodation Costs
Low Fuel Costs	Expensive International Education
Affordable Basic Services	Dependence on Cars
High Salary Opportunities	Imported Goods Premium
Modern Amenities & Entertainment	Extreme Summer Temperatures

Conclusion

Living in Riyadh offers a mix of opportunities and challenges when it comes to the cost of living in Riyadh. Housing and international education can be expensive, but the city also provides significant financial advantages like no income tax, low fuel prices, and competitive salaries in many sectors. With a Cost of Living Index of 47, Riyadh is relatively affordable compared to many global cities, giving residents a good balance between quality of life and expenses.

With careful planning and budgeting, residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while taking advantage of the city’s modern amenities, vibrant dining scene, and growing entertainment options. Choosing the right accommodation, using local markets, and leveraging employer-provided benefits can make a big difference in managing expenses. Understanding the cost of living in Riyadh helps newcomers make informed decisions and ensures a financially manageable and enjoyable life in the Saudi capital.