Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia with Family

Saudi Arabia continues to attract expatriates and families from around the world due to its economic opportunities, tax-free income, and unique cultural experiences. Whether relocating for work or seeking a new adventure, understanding the cost of living in Saudi Arabia is crucial for planning a comfortable lifestyle.

This guide delves into the average cost of living in Saudi Arabia, with insights into key expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, education, healthcare, and leisure. City-specific sections provide an in-depth view of living costs in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, helping you make informed decisions.

1. Housing in Saudi Arabia: Options for Every Budget

Housing is a significant expense for families, but options range from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious gated compounds.

Affordable Housing Options

Budget-conscious families can find apartments starting at SAR 1,000 per month in smaller towns or suburban areas. These options offer basic amenities and comfortable living spaces.

Housing Costs in Major Cities

Riyadh: The capital offers a wide range of housing, from budget-friendly apartments at SAR 1,500 to premium accommodations exceeding SAR 7,000 per month. Suburban areas like Al Khaleej and Al Malaz are popular for their affordability.

Jeddah: Known for its coastal vibe, Jeddah features apartments ranging from SAR 2,000 to SAR 6,500 per month. Upscale neighborhoods like Al Hamra are pricier, while suburban areas are more affordable.

Dammam: This industrial city provides housing starting at SAR 1,500 per month, with family apartments averaging SAR 3,000 to SAR 5,500.

Gated Compounds for Expatriates

Expats often prefer gated compounds for their amenities, including pools, gyms, and security. Prices range from SAR 5,000 to SAR 12,000 per month, depending on the location and facilities.

2. Utilities in Saudi Arabia: Subsidized and Affordable

Utilities are subsidized, making them manageable for families:

Electricity: Monthly costs range from SAR 200 to SAR 700, influenced by home size and air conditioning usage.
Water: Expenses typically fall between SAR 50 and SAR 100 per month.
Internet: High-speed internet packages cost SAR 300 to SAR 500 per month, depending on the provider and speed.

3. Groceries and Dining: Balancing Local and Imported Goods

Monthly Grocery Costs

Local staples: Families of four spend SAR 1,000 to SAR 2,000 per month on basics like rice, bread, and vegetables.
Imported items: Preference for international brands can significantly raise grocery bills.

Dining Out

Saudi Arabia’s diverse dining options cater to various budgets:

Mid-range restaurants: Family meals cost SAR 150 to SAR 300.
Fast food: Meals start at SAR 20 per person, offering affordable options.

4. Transportation: Affordable and Convenient

Driving Costs

Fuel: Subsidized petrol costs around SAR 2.33 per liter, with monthly expenses of SAR 200 to SAR 500.
Car Maintenance: Include SAR 300 to SAR 800 per month for insurance and upkeep.

Public Transport

Options like the Riyadh Metro and SAPTCO buses are cost-effective, with tickets starting at SAR 5 per trip.

5. Education in Saudi Arabia: An Investment for Families

Private and International Schools

Private schools: Annual tuition ranges from SAR 15,000 to SAR 50,000.
Premium international schools: Tuition exceeds SAR 60,000 annually for institutions like the British International School.

Additional costs for books, uniforms, and extracurricular activities range from SAR 2,000 to SAR 5,000 annually.

6. Healthcare in Saudi Arabia: Quality Services

Public Healthcare

Accessible for citizens and public-sector expatriates at little or no cost.

Private Healthcare

Insurance plans cost SAR 2,000 to SAR 5,000 annually, offering access to modern facilities and internationally trained professionals.

7. Entertainment and Leisure: Family-Friendly Activities

Saudi Arabia’s entertainment sector offers ample options:

Cinema tickets: SAR 50 to SAR 75 per person.
Theme parks: Entry fees range from SAR 100 to SAR 500 per family.
Outdoor activities: Parks and beaches, like Half Moon Bay, provide affordable recreation.

Memberships

Gyms: Family packages cost SAR 300 to SAR 600 per month.
Streaming services: Subscriptions like Netflix range from SAR 40 to SAR 100 per month.

8. City-Specific Cost of Living Insights

1. Cost of Living in Riyadh

Housing: Budget apartments start at SAR 1,500 per month. Gated compounds for families are pricier but offer excellent amenities.
Dining: Mid-range family meals cost SAR 150 to SAR 300. Affordable fast food options are widely available.
Transportation: The Riyadh Metro and SAPTCO buses offer economical travel, while driving remains the most convenient option.
Leisure: Riyadh Season and cultural events provide diverse entertainment opportunities.

2. Cost of Living in Jeddah

Housing: Coastal properties can exceed SAR 6,500 monthly, while more affordable apartments are available in suburban areas.
Groceries: Seafood and imported goods are widely available, with monthly grocery costs ranging from SAR 1,500 to SAR 3,000.
Transportation: Limited public transport makes owning a car essential for families.
Leisure: Enjoy Al-Balad’s historic charm, the Jeddah Corniche, and Red Sea beaches.

3. Cost of Living in Dammam

Housing: Family apartments range from SAR 3,000 to SAR 5,500, with some more affordable options in suburban areas.
Transportation: Private vehicles dominate due to limited public transit. Fuel and car maintenance costs are relatively low.
Leisure: Parks, beaches like Half Moon Bay, and family-friendly attractions make Dammam an excellent city for quality family time.

9. Miscellaneous Expenses

Other monthly costs include clothing, personal care, and household items, typically ranging from SAR 1,000 to SAR 2,000 .

Conclusion: Plan Your Budget Wisely

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia varies by city, lifestyle, and family size. Families can live comfortably within SAR 5,000 to SAR 15,000 per month, depending on their choices and priorities. While some opt for premium accommodations and dining experiences, others manage well with affordable housing and local goods. Understanding these expenses ensures a smoother transition and allowsfamilies to enjoy the rich culture and opportunities in the Kingdom.

For a detailed breakdown of living expenses for single individuals, check out our guide on Living in Saudi Arabia as a Single Person: What to Expect to explore how lifestyles and budgets differ across the Kingdom