Saudi Arabia
Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia
Last updated on Mar 12, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally considered to be quite reasonable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Saudi Arabia can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Saudi Arabia is usually around $15 to $20 per person.
Is the cost of living in Saudi Arabia high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Saudi Arabia, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally moderate, though some items can be expensive. In terms of housing, expats tend to pay high rental prices for westernized homes. On the other hand, the cost for basic food items and groceries can be reasonable. In addition, petrol is relatively inexpensive, transportation is available and relatively affordable, and healthcare is accessible and of a high quality. Overall, the cost of living can vary from low to moderate, depending on individual spending habits," explained one expat.
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Will I save money living in Saudi Arabia?
"Living in Saudi Arabia may offer some cost savings compared to living in the United States. The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is generally much lower than that of the United States. In addition, wages in Saudi Arabia tend to be lower than those found in the United States. Additionally, it is also possible to find good quality housing and services at more competitive prices than is typically found in the United States. As such, with careful price comparison and budgeting, living in Saudi Arabia is likely to be more affordable than living in the United States," wrote a person living in Saudi Arabia.
What is the average cost of housing in Saudi Arabia?
If you are thinking about moving to Saudi Arabia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"By comparison for the size of the house it is much cheaper here. Though for normal housing the price is virtually the same. (keep in mind you should ALWAYS have housing included in your package, this way you can upgrade if you don't like it with little out of pocket expense.)," said one expat in Riyadh.
"Much lower since they are provided or subsidised by most companies here. We pay around $400-$500 a month," remarked one in Dhahran.
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What are typical rental prices for expats in Saudi Arabia?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Saudi Arabia can vary greatly, depending on the location. A 1 bedroom apartment in a good area can range from 3,000 to 8,000 Saudi Riyals (US$ 800 to 2,133) per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Saudi Arabia can range from 5,000 to 12,000 Saudi Riyals (US$ 1,333 to 3,200) per month, depending on the location," said one expat.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Saudi Arabia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In Saudi Arabia, rental properties typically include appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, washing machine, and air conditioner. Some properties may also include additional appliances like a dishwasher and dryer," wrote an expat living in Saudi Arabia.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Saudi Arabia?
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- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Saudi Arabia?
- What is the average cost of housing in Saudi Arabia?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Saudi Arabia?
- What should I pack when moving to Saudi Arabia?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Saudi Arabia?
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- How are healthcare services Saudi Arabia?
- What are medical services in Saudi Arabia like?
- What are typical rents in Saudi Arabia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
