Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Riyadh costs approximately $1,729 per month for one person including rent. That is 7% above the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $1,729, Riyadh is on the more expensive side for Middle East. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,122 per month, or $855 outside the centre. Housing therefore accounts for about 49% of a single person's total monthly cost here. A family of four should budget around $3,206 per month excluding rent. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $8.00 and a monthly transit pass $37. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 143 Mbps and Riyadh scores 68/100 on safety (generally safe), and Saudi Arabia offers a digital nomad visa. Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Riyadh is a city in Saudi Arabia, where a single person can expect to spend about $1,729 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,122 per month, or $855 outside the centre. Internet is solid at around 143 Mbps median download speed, and Saudi Arabia offers a digital nomad visa. On safety, Riyadh scores 68/100 — generally safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 112°F and winter highs around 63°F, with roughly 360 sunny days a year.
Top for Lowest Disaster RiskDigital nomad visaFamily friendlyMajor airport hub
A single person should budget around $1,729 per month in Riyadh, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs. A family of four typically needs about $3,206 per month excluding rent.
How much is rent in Riyadh?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Riyadh averages $1,122 per month, dropping to about $855 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $2,093.
Is Riyadh safe?
Riyadh scores 68/100 on safety, which is generally safe. Tourist safety is rated 78/100.
How fast is the internet in Riyadh?
Median download speeds in Riyadh are around 143 Mbps — solid for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 40 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Saudi Arabia offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes — Saudi Arabia offers a digital nomad visa. US passport holders can typically stay 30 days visa-free before applying.
What is the weather like in Riyadh?
Riyadh sees summer highs around 112°F and winter highs near 63°F, with about 360 sunny days and 21 rainy days per year.
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