Planning to move to Riyadh? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Riyadh | Saudi Arabia Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €800 | €666 | +20% above avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €1,733 | €1,466 | +18% above avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €3,733 | €3,200 | +17% above avg |
| Groceries | €400 | €373 | +7% above avg |
| Transport | €133 | €124 | +7% above avg |
Get Your Saudi Arabia Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for Saudi Arabia.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Riyadh in 2026?
A single expat living in central Riyadh should budget approximately €1,733 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €3,733/month.
How much is rent in Riyadh for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Riyadh city centre costs around €800/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €533/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €1,760/month.
Is Riyadh expensive compared to other cities in Saudi Arabia?
Riyadh has a cost index of 100% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Saudi Arabia for comparison.
Related: Saudi Arabia Guide · Saudi Arabia Salaries · Saudi Arabia Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Saudi Arabia · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.