Sydney vs Riyadh: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Sydney (Australia) and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) reveals a cost-of-living index of 85.6 in Sydney versus 49.1 in Riyadh (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Riyadh is 42.6% more affordable than Sydney.

Metrological Indicator Sydney (Australia) Riyadh (Saudi Arabia)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 85.6 49.1
Rent Index 71.7 24.6
Groceries Index 81.1 40.1
Restaurant Price Index 77.9 42
Local Purchasing Power Index 104.2 94.2
1-Bed Apartment in City Center A$3,224 SAR 4,368
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal A$24.96 SAR 31.20
Monthly Public Transit Pass A$197.60 SAR 156.00
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) A$239.20 SAR 468.00
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 66.2/100 · Health 78.4/100 Safety 78.5/100 · Health 71.2/100

Is Sydney more expensive than Riyadh?

Sydney has a higher overall cost-of-living index (85.6) compared to Riyadh (49.1), representing an index differential of 36.5 points (42.6% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Sydney and Riyadh?

In Sydney, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages A$3,224/month (Rent Index: 71.7), whereas in Riyadh it averages SAR 4,368/month (Rent Index: 24.6).

→ Sydney Full Cost Report → Riyadh Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Sydney

The cost of living in Sydney, Australia is indexed at 85.6 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Sydney are defined by a Rent Index of 71.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about A$3,224 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Sydney, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages A$24.96, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around A$5.41. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately A$197.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging A$239.20 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Sydney secures a safety index rating of 66.2/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 91.5/100, healthcare standard scores 78.4/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 89.1 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: SYDNEY-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Riyadh

The cost of living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is indexed at 49.1 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Riyadh are defined by a Rent Index of 24.6. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about SAR 4,368 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Riyadh, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages SAR 31.20, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around SAR 18.72. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately SAR 156.00, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging SAR 468.00 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Riyadh secures a safety index rating of 78.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 45.1/100, healthcare standard scores 71.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 125.4 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: RIYADH-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED