If you’re thinking about moving to Saudi Arabia for work, or you’re a new resident trying to plan your budget — you’re in the right place. In this guide, we break down the real cost of living in Saudi Arabia in 2026 in Riyals: rent, electricity, water, food, petrol, and transportation. All figures are updated based on May 2026 data.
Who it’s for: New residents, expat workers, and anyone considering moving to Saudi Arabia
Where: via toly.today
How much: 4,380–6,730 SAR/month (single) / 8,880–14,080 SAR (family)
When: Updated May 2026 — figures are subject to change
⚠️ Important note: Rent varies significantly between cities — Riyadh is the most expensive, followed by Jeddah then Alkhobar
Rent — The Biggest Expense
Rent is the largest cost in Saudi Arabia. The difference between cities is significant, and the gap between city center and outskirts is also wide. All rental contracts are officially documented through the Ejar platform to protect both parties’ rights.
| City | 1-Bedroom (City Center) | 1-Bedroom (Outside Center) | 4-Bedroom Villa (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | 2,500–5,000 SAR | 1,500–3,000 SAR | 8,000–15,000 SAR |
| Jeddah | 2,000–4,000 SAR | 1,200–2,500 SAR | 6,000–10,000 SAR |
| Dammam / Alkhobar | 2,000–3,500 SAR | 1,200–2,000 SAR | 5,500–9,000 SAR |
| Makkah | 1,800–2,500 SAR | 1,000–1,500 SAR | 4,000–6,500 SAR |
| Madinah | 1,500–2,500 SAR | 1,000–1,500 SAR | 3,500–5,500 SAR |
| Smaller cities (Tabuk, Abha, Hail) | 1,200–1,800 SAR | 800–1,300 SAR | 2,500–4,500 SAR |
Source: Numbeo May 2026 data and Saudi real estate market averages.
Electricity, Water & Fuel
Electricity
Electricity tariffs in Saudi Arabia 2026 are fixed by the Water & Electricity Regulatory Authority (WERA):
| Monthly Consumption | Rate |
|---|---|
| 1 to 6,000 kWh | 18 halalas/kWh (0.18 SAR) |
| Above 6,000 kWh | 30 halalas/kWh (0.30 SAR) |
Meter fee: 10–30 SAR/month depending on amperage. 15% VAT is added to all bills.
Example for a medium family: 3,500 kWh/month → bill about 760 SAR (incl. tax).
Water
Residential water tariff: 0.10 SAR per cubic meter for the first 50m³, increasing progressively. Average water bill for a medium family: 30–70 SAR/month.
Petrol
91 octane: 2.18 SAR/liter
95 octane: 2.33 SAR/liter
Basic Utilities (Monthly)
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity + Water (85m² apartment) | 350–650 SAR |
| Cooking gas (cylinder) | 25 SAR |
| Home fiber internet (60 Mbps+) | 230–380 SAR |
| Mobile plan (10GB+) | 100–150 SAR |
Food & Groceries
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 liter) | 6.50 SAR |
| Bread (loaf) | 4 SAR |
| Rice (1 kg) | 8 SAR |
| Chicken (1 kg fillet) | 31 SAR |
| Beef (1 kg) | 50 SAR |
| Eggs (12) | 9.50 SAR |
| Bananas (1 kg) | 6 SAR |
| Water (1.5 liter) | 2 SAR |
Source: Numbeo — May 2026
Restaurants & Takeout
- Meal at a regular restaurant: 25 SAR
- Two-person meal at a mid-range restaurant: 150 SAR
- McDonald’s combo: 30 SAR
- Cappuccino: 14 SAR
- Soft drink (can): 3 SAR
Transportation
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 91 Petrol (per liter) | 2.18 SAR |
| Uber/Careem ride (within city) | 15–40 SAR |
| Riyadh Metro ticket (single) | 4 SAR |
| Intercity bus (Riyadh–Jeddah) | 150–250 SAR |
| Economy car rental (per day) | 80–150 SAR |
Monthly Budget Estimate — How Much Do You Need?
| Category | Single | Family (Couple + 2 Kids) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | 2,000–3,500 SAR | 4,000–7,000 SAR |
| Electricity & Water | 250–400 SAR | 500–900 SAR |
| Internet + Mobile | 330 SAR | 480 SAR |
| Food & Groceries | 600–900 SAR | 1,500–2,500 SAR |
| Restaurants | 400–600 SAR | 800–1,200 SAR |
| Petrol & Transport | 300–500 SAR | 600–1,000 SAR |
| Health Insurance | Free (through employer) | Free (through employer) |
| Other (clothing, entertainment) | 500 SAR | 1,000 SAR |
| Approximate Total | 4,380–6,730 SAR | 8,880–14,080 SAR |
Health insurance is covered by the employer for private-sector residents as per the mandatory health insurance system.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5,000 SAR enough to live in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, for a single person in a city other than Riyadh or Jeddah. In Riyadh and Jeddah, 5,000 SAR covers rent and basic needs but savings will be very limited due to rising property prices.
Which city has the lowest cost of living?
Tabuk, Abha, Al Baha, and Hail are the cheapest cities. Riyadh is the most expensive, followed by Jeddah then Alkhobar.
Does rent include electricity and water?
Most rental contracts documented through the Ejar platform do NOT include utility bills — the tenant pays electricity and water separately unless otherwise agreed in the contract’s additional terms.
How much does a family of 4 need per month?
Approximately 9,000–14,000 SAR depending on the city, lifestyle, and residential neighborhood.
