A Guide for Digital Nomads: The Cost Of Living In South Korea

Thinking about moving to South Korea? High-tech gadgets, K-pop idols, and binge-worthy hit shows like Squid Game probably first come to mind. But there’s so much more to life here than what pops up on your feed. The Land of the Morning Calm is a place where neon-lit cities buzz day and night, peaceful countryside offers a breather, and getting around is a breeze thanks to world-class transportation.

And here's the part many people don’t realize – the cost of living in South Korea is actually more reasonable than you’d expect, making it a popular destination for travelers and digital nomads from across the globe. Add to that some of the fastest internet speeds in the world (a huge win for digital nomads), and it's easy to see why more and more travelers, remote workers, and expats are setting up a home base here.

Whether you’re planning a big move or just daydreaming about your next adventure, this guide will give you the real numbers and smart money-saving tips to help you make South Korea feel like home, without breaking the bank.

What Is the Cost Of Living in South Korea?

The Republic of Korea is a unique country in the southern half of the Korean peninsula, where high-tech, sci-fi-like urban landscapes mix with ancient palaces and traditional neighborhoods. Dubbed the Land of the Morning Calm, it’s also a land of beautiful nature – pristine pine-covered mountains, breathtaking bamboo forests and beaches, lush tea plantations, urban parks, and nature preserves.

“Is South Korea expensive?” is one of the burning questions for digital nomads looking to relocate to this beautiful Asian country. The answer is: it depends. The average cost of living in South Korea per month for a single person is now about 1.5 million KRW (roughly $1,100) without rent. It’s essential to keep in mind that, just like anywhere in the world, the prices between large cities and smaller towns differ.

Your day-to-day lifestyle, preferences, and priorities will also affect how much South Korean won you spend while living in Korea.

Cost of Living In South Korea vs. the US

South Korea could be considered an expensive country by many people’s standards. Still, if you look at other urban and developed countries like Korea, it’s actually on the more affordable side. Living in South Korea is often cheaper than in the US, but it depends on what you’re spending on. On average, South Korea is about 5% cheaper overall.

Eating out is where you’ll really notice the savings – restaurant meals cost around 40% less compared to the US. For example, a typical lunch in Seoul might set you back $7–$10, while the same meal in an American city could easily be $15–$20. Public transportation is another big win, with metro and bus fares that are around 60% cheaper than in most US cities. However, groceries can feel a bit more expensive in Korea, with some imported items costing 30-50% more than back home.

And when it comes to rent, Seoul can rival big US cities like Los Angeles or Chicago, though smaller Korean cities like Daegu or Gwangju offer apartments at prices 30-50% lower than their American counterparts. So, depending on your lifestyle, Korea can feel like a smart financial move, especially if you eat local and take advantage of the country’s affordable transit.

There are, of course, many other ways to keep expenses down and make the most out of your stay. Keep reading to learn more.

Cost of Housing and Accommodation: Average Rent Prices In South Korea

Location is a crucial factor to consider when talking about the cost of living in Korea, and one of the key things a digital nomad should give some thought to. As is typical in most countries, the most significant expense in South Korea will be your housing. If you get a good deal on your accommodation, it’s possible to keep other costs as low as you like.

The accommodation costs and security deposits are usually why Seoul often appears on the top lists of the world’s most expensive cities. So, keep in mind that the most expensive living costs in the country will be found in the capital, Seoul, and other major cities like Busan and Jeju Island.

Accommodation Costs In Seoul

Most of the housing options in Korea come down to apartments, especially in urban areas. Houses in South Korea are typically found in the countryside, but in major cities, nearly everyone lives in apartment buildings. In 2025, small studio apartments in less central districts of Seoul typically rent for around 500,000 to 700,000 KRW ($430 to $600) per month.

For city centre apartments or those in high-demand neighborhoods like Gangnam or Yeonhui, expect to pay between 1.2 and 1.8 million KRW ($1,030 to $1,550) monthly for a more spacious or newer unit. These prices generally exclude rent & utilities, which can add another 150,000 to 300,000 KRW ($130 to $260) depending on season and usage.

As always, rental prices vary by location, building age, and amenities. In bigger cities, the average rent hovers around 700,000 KRW ($600) per month, with Seoul on the higher end of that spectrum. Short-term visitors or digital nomads might prefer hotels or serviced residences instead.

A decent mid-range hotel in Seoul costs around 60,000 KRW ($52) per night or approximately 1.2 million KRW ($1,030) per month, though you can find cheaper options in neighborhoods like Sangam, Hongdae, or Mangwon. These areas are well-connected to the city center and offer a better deal compared to upscale districts.

Housing Costs Outside of Seoul

Once you move beyond Seoul and other major hotspots, housing becomes much more affordable. In cities like Daejeon, Gwangju, and other rural areas, rents can drop to 300,000–500,000 KRW ($260–$430) per month. Older buildings in smaller towns offer even cheaper options, making them attractive for budget-conscious residents. Not only is rent lower, but usual expenses from day-to-day also shrink, helping reduce overall living costs.

That said, big cities like Seoul and Busan still drain wallets faster, not just due to higher rents, but also the constant temptation of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that come with city life on every corner, which quickly pile up the monthly costs.

Cost of Transportation In South Korea

Seoul offers one of the best metro and bus systems in the world. Public transportation in South Korea is highly developed, reliable, and well-connected. Buses, subways, trains, and taxis are well-organized and affordable, making it easy to get around. As a convenient and common way of getting around, a standard ride on a bus or subway costs between 1,450 won ($1.25) and 2,500 won ($2.15), depending on distance.

Most commuters use transportation cards instead of one-way tickets, since it simplifies travel and lets you transfer between different types of transportation without any extra fees. These monthly tickets also cover taxi journeys and purchases at convenience stores, keeping overall transport expenses manageable.

Abundant and inexpensive, taxis are affordable for short distances (as long as you have a metered taxi), especially if you are sharing the ride with friends. Current taxi prices start around 4,800 won ($4.15) for the base fare. It's easy to flag one down on the streets or at taxi stands around the city.

Cost of Food & Dining In South Korea

Whatever your budget and food preference, there are endless food options in Korea. After all, it’s well known for its spicy cuisine, and you can easily find delicious food for any budget, as long as you stick to local options. Grocery prices, which are a large part of South Korea's cost of living calculations, can add up, especially if you buy imported goods or shop at upscale markets.

Local produce, rice, and kimchi are affordable, but beef, cheese, and certain fruits (like cherries or avocados) are noticeably pricier than in the US, often by 30-50%. Eating out is often cheaper than cooking at home, especially for solo residents. The average cost of a typical Korean food meal at a casual restaurant is around ₩10,000–₩13,000 ($8.50–$11), while a filling street food snack like tteokbokki or kimbap can be grabbed for as little as ₩3,000 ($2.50).

A dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back about ₩24,000–₩30,000 ($20–$25), while a nicer night out with multiple dishes might cost ₩60,000 ($50) or more. For most digital nomads and expats, the smart move is to embrace inexpensive street food and dine out at Korean eateries, keeping both their stomachs and budgets satisfied.

The Cost of Entertainment and Nightlife In Korea

As a bustling metropolis, there’s no shortage of things for you to do and see in Seoul or South Korea in general. And, since we all spend money on leisure activities, it's only natural that we include them in our cost of living estimates. Each season comes with its highlights, so nature lovers in Korea will also have plenty of opportunities to explore hiking destinations, well-tended parks, and ocean-side escapes across Korea

There are many forms of entertainment in Seoul and Busan, from karaoke to nightclubs and bars to baseball or soccer games. Seoul has a buzzing nightlife, and it is a city that is always ready to get a groove on. A good night out at a local pub will rarely run more than 35,000 won ($30), as long as you’re prepared to stick to domestic beers or spirits.

Going to the movies, watching a baseball or soccer game, or going to the gym, however, might take a toll on your pockets. Game and movie tickets are usually in the 13,000 won ($11.20) to 15,000 won ($12.95) range. If you want to top it off with snacks, double it. A gym membership will cost you around 80,000 won ($69) on average in Seoul. In smaller Korean towns and provinces, there won’t be as much to do, but the prices will be more affordable.

Medical Costs in South Korea

Healthcare in the Land of the Morning Calm is both high-quality and relatively affordable, making it another appealing factor for digital nomads and expats considering the average cost of living in South Korea. All residents, including foreign workers, are required to have basic health insurance under the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). If you’re employed, your insurance contributions are automatically deducted from your paycheck. Unemployed spouses can be covered through their partner's plan, which keeps family healthcare simple and efficient.

While basic insurance covers a good portion of medical expenses, it doesn’t eliminate costs entirely. Routine doctor visits, basic tests like X-rays, and prescription medications usually require small out-of-pocket payments – anywhere from 6,000 won ($5) to 22,000 won ($18) for standard services. Pharmacy costs are equally manageable, with most common medications falling within this range after insurance discounts.

However, for more specialized care, like MRI scans, surgeries, or treatment for serious illnesses, the prices can rise significantly. That’s where supplemental private insurance comes into play. Many residents choose to purchase additional coverage through international insurers such as Allianz or local providers. A comprehensive plan typically costs between 110,000 won ($85) and 220,000 won ($170) per month, depending on your age, health condition, and coverage level.

So, Is It Expensive to Live in South Korea?

Living in South Korea isn’t inherently expensive, but it largely depends on lifestyle choices and where you settle. Seoul, the capital, can be pricey, especially in terms of housing costs, but there are ways to keep expenses more manageable. If you choose an affordable city in terms of rent and daily necessities, like Daegu or Gwangju, your overall budget can drop significantly.

One thing to keep in mind is that some unavoidable costs, such as healthcare, public transportation, and supermarket food, are reasonably priced compared to many Western countries. You can eat out often without breaking the bank, and the public system is efficient and cheap. While South Korea isn't the cheapest country to live in, it offers enough flexibility for many expats and locals to find ways to live comfortably without overspending.

How Much Salary Is Enough to Live in South Korea?!

The salary you need to live comfortably in South Korea also depends mostly on your personal habits and where you live. For a single person, a monthly salary of around 2 to 2.5 million KRW ($1,720 to $2,150) is generally sufficient, especially outside of Seoul. This allows for rent, food, transit, and modest leisure. If you're in Seoul, though, that same salary might feel tight, particularly if you're renting a place on your own.

Your monthly living costs will naturally increase with things like private housing or a more busy, social lifestyle. Ultimately, the cost of living depends heavily on how you manage your spending. Budget-conscious individuals can thrive even on a moderate income, while others may need more to support their desired standard of living.

Money-Saving Tips: Reducing the Cost of Living In South Korea

There’s a widespread impression that it’s very expensive to live in South Korea, but don’t let it put you off. The cost of living in South Korea is far more reasonable than it seems, and it’s possible to live comfortably without breaking the bank, as your expenses can vary dramatically depending on your lifestyle choices.

So, here are some practical money-saving tips to keep in mind:

• As housing will be the greatest part of your living costs in Korea, opt for accommodation in smaller towns, less popular city areas, older buildings, and the outskirts of large cities.

• Did you know you can find street food in Korea for as little as $2 per meal? When eating out, stick to traditional Korean food as Western restaurants and foreign food are more expensive.

• There are always things you can do and see to spend less, such as visiting Korea’s parks, temples, beaches, and palaces with around $2 entrance tickets.

• When using public transport, buy transportation cards to commute more easily and change between public transportation modes for free.

• The currency of South Korea is the South Korean won (₩). It’s a surprisingly weak currency, but this is excellent for digital nomads who earn money through USD. It can be tricky to find Won outside of Eastern Asia, so make sure to scroll down for the perfect solution.

South Korea as a whole has a warm and welcoming feel. With lots of things to do, fantastic traditional cuisine, and super-fast WiFi, spending some time living in South Korea and exploring the Land of the Morning Calm should be on every digital nomad’s bucket list. Hopefully, you now have a good idea of the general cost of living in Korea. By following our advice, you will quickly find that South Korea can be very affordable to live in when mindful.

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