Riyadh offers expat families a unique Middle Eastern experience with modern infrastructure, tax-free salaries, and excellent international schools. Saudi Arabia's capital has undergone significant social and economic reforms, creating new opportunities for expatriate families. The city features world-class healthcare, luxury shopping, and growing entertainment options. However, the extreme desert climate requires adaptation, and cultural considerations are important for family life. Housing is typically provided or subsidized by employers, and the cost of living can be reasonable despite some expensive imported goods. The expat community is substantial, primarily consisting of professionals and their families. English is widely spoken in business and international settings, making daily life more manageable for English-speaking families.

💰 Cost of Living

Monthly family budget estimates (USD)

At a Glance

$1,800

Avg. rent /mo

$10

Budget meal

$50

Mid-range dinner (2 ppl)

Dining & Drinks

Cappuccino$4.50

Water (1.5L)$0.50

Groceries

Loaf of bread$1.20

Milk (1L)$1.60

Dozen eggs$2.80

Chicken (1 kg)$5.50

Transport

Taxi flag-drop$2.70

Taxi per km$0.80

Monthly transit pass$0.00

Gasoline (per liter)$0.62

Monthly Bills

Internet$55 /mo

Utilities (avg.)$120 /mo

Gym membership$65 /mo

Domestic help$550 /mo

Preschool / nursery$800 /mo

Comfortable

Apartment in a gated compound, modest dining out, public schooling supplement

$5,500/mo

Rent$2,200

Groceries$600

Lifestyle & leisure$300

Transport$400

Utilities$200

Dining out$350

Healthcare$250

School fees (per child)$1,000

Domestic help$200

Established

Villa in a quality compound, regular dining, top-tier international school

$12,000/mo

Rent$4,500

Groceries$900

Lifestyle & leisure$800

Transport$700

Utilities$350

Dining out$700

Healthcare$500

School fees (per child)$3,000

Domestic help$550

Premium

Luxury villa, premium compound with full amenities, elite schooling, driver and nanny

$22,000/mo

Rent$8,000

Groceries$1,300

Lifestyle & leisure$1,500

Transport$1,200

Utilities$500

Dining out$1,500

Healthcare$1,000

School fees (per child)$5,500

Domestic help$1,500

Riyadh offers a tax-free lifestyle with no income tax, making take-home pay significantly higher than comparable cities. Housing in expat-friendly compounds is the largest expense. Alcohol is prohibited, reducing entertainment costs. Domestic help is affordable and widely available.

🌬️ Air Quality

Average monthly AQI (US EPA scale)

Jan

Feb

110

Mar

120

Apr

130

May

140

Jun

135

Jul

125

Aug

115

Sep

100

Oct

Nov

Dec

Good (0–50)Moderate (51–100)USG (101–150)Unhealthy (151+)

Yearly average AQI is 112. Best air quality Jan–Dec (best: Feb at 88). Mar–Sep air quality worsens due to heat, humidity, and dust (peak: Jun at 140). Families with children who have asthma or respiratory conditions should plan indoor activities during summer months.