Cost of living in Dhahran (Az-Zahran)
Dhahran, located in Saudi Arabia, is a city known for its oil industry and expatriate community. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone planning to move or work in the area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses, including housing, dining, transportation, and more, to help you budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $6.66 on average, with a range between $3.2 and $18.64.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $39.95, with prices ranging from $26.63 to $79.9.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6.66, with a range between $6.66 and $9.32.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $0.8 to $4, imported beer $1.33 to $3.2, cappuccino $1.86 to $6.66, and Coke/Pepsi $0.67 to $1.07.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.33 and $2.66 per liter, averaging $1.53.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.53 and $2.13, with an average price of $1.2.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.28 to $4.79, averaging $2.33.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $1.32 to $2.66 per kg, while oranges range from $1.07 to $2.4 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.8 and $1.86 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.8 to $3.2 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0 and $0.53.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.58 and $0.62 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $1.07, with a cost of $0.8 to $4 per km and $5.33 to $26.63 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $1118.65 to $1331.72, averaging $1225.18.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $799.03 to $1065.38, averaging $932.2.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $79.9 and $399.52, averaging $114.53.
- Internet - Internet services range from $39.95 to $79.9, with an average cost of $64.23.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for Saudi Arabia are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Saudi Arabia, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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Transportation
Transportation
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Sports And Leisure
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Clothing And Shoes
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Buy Apartment Price
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Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Dhahran offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western cities, particularly in terms of dining and transportation.
Housing costs, especially for purchasing property, are moderate, making it an attractive option for expatriates.
Utilities and internet services are reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Dhahran.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dhahran presents a balanced cost of living with affordable dining and transportation options.
While housing purchase prices are moderate, the city remains an attractive destination for expatriates and locals alike.
Understanding these costs can help potential residents plan their finances effectively when considering a move to Dhahran.