Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia Details and Tips

Last updated on May 30th, 2025 at 10:41 am

Are you considering living or working in Saudi Arabia? One important factor to consider is the cost of living in the country. 

In this article, we will explore various aspects of the cost of living in Saudi Arabia, ranging from basic needs such as accommodation, food, and transportation, to money-saving tips for better managing your budget. 

Whether you are a worker, a family, or a student, understanding the cost of living in Saudi Arabia will help you plan your finances more efficiently. So, read on for all the details!

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Saudi Arabia?

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on several factors, such as the city you live in, your lifestyle, and your individual or family needs. Below is an estimate of the cost of living in Saudi Arabia for different situations:

• Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia for Workers

Biaya akomodasi di Arab Saudi bervariasi, dengan sewa apartemen satu kamar di pusat kota Riyadh atau Jeddah dapat mencapai antara 1.000 hingga 1.500 SAR (Rp4,3-6,4 juta) per bulan. Di daerah-daerah lain atau di luar pusat kota, biaya sewa lebih terjangkau.

Monthly food expenses can range from 800 to 1,500 SAR (approximately $213-400 USD), depending on where you eat and your food preferences. Monthly transportation costs, including fuel and vehicle maintenance, typically range from 500 to 1,000 SAR (approximately $133-267 USD).

Healthcare expenses can vary, but monthly health insurance costs usually range between 200 and 500 SAR (approximately $53-133 USD), depending on the type of insurance and coverage.

• Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia for Families

For families, living expenses in Saudi Arabia can include various essential costs. For accommodation, the rent for a two- or three-bedroom apartment in central areas is typically between 1,500 and 3,500 SAR (approximately $400-933 USD) per month.

Monthly food expenses for a family can range from 1,500 to 3,000 SAR (approximately $400-800 USD), depending on the family size and food preferences. Transportation is also a key factor, with monthly costs around 1,000 to 2,000 SAR (approximately $267-533 USD) for families with a private vehicle and regular commuting.

Additionally, education costs for children attending international or foreign curriculum schools can be around 2,000 SAR (approximately $533 USD) per month per child. All of these expenses need to be carefully considered when planning family finances in Saudi Arabia.

• Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia for Students

The cost of living for students in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on several factors. For accommodation, rent for an apartment or dormitory usually ranges from 800 to 1,000 SAR (approximately $213-267 USD) per month, depending on the facilities and location.

Monthly food expenses for students can also vary, with estimates ranging from 500 to 1,000 SAR (approximately $133-267 USD), depending on lifestyle and food preferences. For students using public transportation, monthly transportation costs are typically around 200 to 500 SAR (approximately $53-133 USD).

Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia Per Day

The daily cost of living in Saudi Arabia, including food and transportation, averages between 100 to 200 SAR (approximately $27-53 USD). For food, this includes costs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This cost can vary depending on where you eat and the type of food you choose, whether it is from a restaurant or home-cooked meals. For transportation, the daily cost will depend on whether you use public or private transport, as well as the distance traveled.

Breakdown of Living Expenses in Saudi Arabia

Living expenses in Saudi Arabia can be categorized into accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, and other expenses. Below are the details of the cost of living in Saudi Arabia:

• Accommodation Fees

Accommodation costs in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on the city and location. Rent prices for apartments and houses are influenced by the facilities and size of the property. For example:

• One-bedroom apartment in the city center: 1,000-1,500 SAR (approximately $267-400 USD)
• One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: 800-930 SAR (approximately $213-247 USD)
• Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: 1,500-3,500 SAR (approximately $400-933 USD)
• Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: 1,200-2,700 SAR (approximately $320-720 USD)

• Meal cost

Food expenses in Saudi Arabia vary depending on restaurant choices and the type of cuisine. Prices for meals in low-range restaurants range from 15 to 50 SAR (approximately $4-13 USD) per dish, while meals at mid-range restaurants for two people, including three courses, can cost between 100 and 350 SAR (approximately $27-93 USD).

• Transportation costs

Transportation costs in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on the type of vehicle and usage. For example, public transportation costs typically range around 200 SAR (approximately $53 USD) per month, while car rentals can cost between 1,500 and 1,800 SAR (approximately $400-480 USD).

• Insurance Costs

Health insurance costs in Saudi Arabia are generally not too high, but typically range between 100 and 500 SAR (approximately $27-133 USD) per month, depending on the type and coverage of the insurance.

• Miscellaneous expense

Other living expenses in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on needs. For example, internet costs can range from 100 to 350 SAR (approximately $27-93 USD) per month, while the cost of electronics can range from 100 to 500 SAR (approximately $27-133 USD) per month.

By considering the costs listed above, individuals can save money in Saudi Arabia by choosing more affordable options that align with their needs.

Money-Saving Tips for Living in Saudi Arabia

Here are some tips for saving on living expenses in Saudi Arabia: 

1. Look for affordable accommodation: Consider renting an apartment or staying in a more budget-friendly area. 
2. Cook at home: Preparing your own meals will help you save on dining out. 
3. Use free or low-cost public facilities: Take advantage of free parks, libraries, or community spaces.
4. Shop wisely: Compare prices at different stores and take advantage of discounts and promotions. 
5. Choose affordable housing: Opt for less expensive rental properties. 
6. Use public transportation: If possible, use public transport instead of owning a private vehicle. 

By implementing these tips, you can manage your finances better and reduce living costs while staying in Saudi Arabia.

Cheapest Cities in Saudi Arabia

Cities in Saudi Arabia known for having lower living costs often have several reasons contributing to their affordability:

• Buraidah

Located in the center of the country, Buraidah offers a lower cost of living due to being a regional economic center with less competition compared to major cities like Riyadh.

• Hail

Situated in the northern part of Saudi Arabia, Hail is more remote, resulting in lower living costs due to cheaper property prices, food, and services.

• Najran

Located near the Yemeni border, Najran is affordable due to lower economic pressures and reduced competition compared to larger cities.

• Al Qurayyat

Located in the Al Jawf province, Al Qurayyat offers a lower cost of living due to its smaller size and simpler economic development.

• Al Bahah

Located in the southwest, Al Bahah offers a more affordable cost of living due to lower urbanization and development levels.

These cities are often considered ideal for those seeking more affordable living options in Saudi Arabia, whether for living, working, or investing.

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