Riyadh is known as a bustling commercial and cultural hub, making it one of the most appealing cities to live in within Saudi Arabia. The capital offers a wide variety of residential neighborhoods that cater to all income levels. But with the economic crunch and soaring prices, many are on the lookout for affordable areas to live in Riyadh—neighborhoods that offer comfortable living conditions without breaking the bank, especially for expats and low-income families. In this article, we’ll take you through the most budget-friendly districts that still provide essential services and amenities.
Looking to buy property in Riyadh? Sakan is Saudi Arabia’s #1 real estate platform, designed to make your property search easy and efficient. Browse a wide range of properties for sale in Riyadh with custom filters to match your exact budget. Discover villas with multiple floors, spacious layouts, and apartments for sale in Riyadh with flexible payment options!
Where Can You Find the Cheapest Neighborhoods in Riyadh?
Although average apartment prices in Riyadh have gone up, there are still pockets of affordability across the city. The cheapest areas are not confined to one zone—they’re spread across north, south, east, and west Riyadh. These areas generally offer essential services and the basic lifestyle necessities at a much lower cost.
List of the Cheapest Residential Neighborhoods in Riyadh:
- Al-Naseem
- Al-Sulay
- Al-Oraija
- Tuwaiq
- Al-Dar Al-Baida
- Al-Shifa
- Al-Narjis
- Al-Aarid
- Al-Malqa
- Banban
- Manfouha
- Al-Yarmouk
- Al-Namar
- Al-Batha
- Badr
What Are the Cheapest Neighborhoods in North Riyadh?
North Riyadh is one of the most modern and upscale areas in the capital. It features impressive residential projects and iconic landmarks. But surprisingly, some neighborhoods in the north still offer budget-friendly housing options—including cheap apartments for rent in North Riyadh.
Top Affordable Neighborhoods in North Riyadh:
- Al-Narjis
- Al-Aarid
- Al-Malqa
- Banban
Where Is Al-Narjis Located in North Riyadh?
Al-Narjis is situated in the northern part of Riyadh, just west of Prince Faisal bin Bandar Al Saud Road. It’s close to major landmarks like Princess Nourah University, North Riyadh Cemetery, Care Medical College, and California Resort.
Average Property Prices in Al-Narjis:
- Rental apartments: Starting from SAR 26,711
- Land: SAR 2,406 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): Around SAR 1,858,150
- Furnished rentals: From SAR 6,500/month
- Annual rentals: Between SAR 45,000 and SAR 90,000 depending on size and location
Where Is Al-Aarid Located?
Al-Aarid is strategically positioned, bordered by King Fahd Road to the west and King Salman Road to the south. It’s also close to major shopping destinations like Al Makan Mall, Nakheel Mall, and Granada Center.
Average Property Prices in Al-Aarid:
- Rental apartments: SAR 21,641
- Land: SAR 2,138 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 1,747,900
What Are the Cheapest Neighborhoods in East Riyadh?
East Riyadh also offers a selection of affordable residential zones. Two standouts include:
- Al-Sulay
- Al-Yarmouk
Where Is Al-Sulay Located?
Al-Sulay is considered one of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Riyadh. It offers various housing types at low prices, and services here are also more affordable.
The area lies west of the Second Ring Road and is intersected by the Southern Ring Road, connecting it to both Haroun Al-Rasheed Road and the Eastern Ring Road.
Average Property Prices in Al-Sulay:
- Rental apartments: SAR 19,000
- Land: SAR 5.12 million
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 750,000
Where Is Al-Yarmouk in East Riyadh?
Al-Yarmouk is known for its abundance of educational, health, commercial, and entertainment services, making it one of the best-value-for-money neighborhoods in Riyadh.
It’s located on Dammam Road and includes notable facilities like Al Yarmouk Medical Clinics, Al Mayoumi Training Institute, and the Labor Ministry Recruitment Office.
Average Property Prices in Al-Yarmouk:
- Rental apartments: SAR 20,209
- Land: SAR 2,299 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 1,457,050
Looking for affordable rental apartments in East Riyadh? Al-Yarmouk is a top choice.
What Are the Cheapest Neighborhoods in West Riyadh?
West Riyadh is another haven for budget-conscious home seekers. If you’re looking for cheap properties or apartments for sale in Riyadh, don’t miss:
- Al-Namar
- Tuwaiq
Where Is Al-Namar Located?
Al-Namar is famous for Wadi Namar Lake and Al-Shuaib Park. It lies just south of the Southern Ring Road and is close to Dallah Namar Hospital, Justice Department, and Al-Shifa Health Center.
Average Property Prices in Al-Namar:
- Rental apartments: SAR 18,461
- Land: SAR 760 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 935,200
Where Is Tuwaiq Located?
Tuwaiq falls under Al-Oraija Municipality and includes several service centers like Al-Qaryah Souq, Al-Douh Park, Al-Nassr Club, Weekend Namar Chalets, and Al-Hejaz Station.
It’s one of the largest and most affordable areas in Riyadh, offering a wide variety of properties.
Average Property Prices in Tuwaiq:
- Monthly rentals: SAR 14,165
- Land: SAR 1,234 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 1,136,800
What Are the Cheapest Neighborhoods in Central Riyadh?
Central Riyadh attracts many expats due to its moderate property prices and vibrant culture. Two popular options are:
- Manfouha
- Badr
Average Apartment Prices in Central Riyadh:
Starting from just SAR 300,000!
Where Is Manfouha Located?
Manfouha lies just north of the Southern Ring Road and is one of Riyadh’s most economical and down-to-earth neighborhoods, known for its bustling shops and traditional markets.
Why Is It Called Manfouha?
It’s also known as Manfouhat Al-A’sha, named after the famous Arab poet Al-A’sha Qais who lived there. Today, the area is home to many Egyptians and Africans.
Average Property Prices in Manfouha:
- Rental apartments: SAR 13,166
- Land: SAR 220,000
- Villas: SAR 300,000
Where Is Al-Batha Located?
Al-Batha lies along King Faisal Road and Al-A’sha Street and is widely recognized as the cheapest area in Riyadh.
Average Property Prices in Al-Batha:
- Monthly rent: Around SAR 3,500
- Annual rent: SAR 7,000
Where Is Al-Shifa Located?
Surrounded by landmarks like Wadi Namar Dam Park, Abu Haitham Park, and Al-Minhaj School Complex, Al-Shifa also includes Vietnam Medical Center, Education Office, and Al-Shifa Mall.
Average Property Prices in Al-Shifa:
- Monthly rentals: SAR 15,166
- Land: SAR 1,167 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 825,300
Where Is Badr Located?
Badr is close to Dyrab Road and Okaz Park. Notable residential plans here include Al-Muzaini, Tilal Al-Shifa, and Al-Shifa Industrial Zone.
A favorite for people searching for affordable properties in South Riyadh.
Average Property Prices in Badr:
- Rental apartments: SAR 14,052
- Land: SAR 1,119 per sqm
- Villas (350 sqm): SAR 988,050
You might even find ownership apartments for SAR 300,000 in Badr, perfect for young couples or new families. In some distant areas, there may even be listings for SAR 200,000 or SAR 150,000!
