Before moving to Seoul, it’s essential to understand the real cost of living in Seoul. This 2025 guide breaks down everything—from rent and food to transit and lifestyle—so you can budget smarter and live better.
A Realistic Breakdown for Students, Expats, and Digital Nomads
Why Seoul? And Why You Should Budget First
Seoul is one of Asia’s most exciting cities—a hub for K-pop, culture, tech, and food. But before packing your bags, you need a clear idea of what daily life will actually cost you. Whether you’re planning to stay long-term or just for a few months, this 2025 guide offers a realistic look at the cost of living in Seoul—from rent and food to SIM cards and night outs.
Housing Costs in Seoul (2025)
Monthly Cost Overview by Type
| Type | Monthly Price Range (KRW) | USD Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Goshiwon | ₩250,000–₩500,000 | $190–$380 |
| Shared Apartment | ₩400,000–₩700,000 | $300–$530 |
| Studio (Officetel) | ₩600,000–₩1,200,000 | $450–$900 |
| One-Bedroom Apt | ₩1,200,000+ | $900+ |
💡 Tip: Goshiwons are ideal if you’re on a tight budget. Read: How to Find a Goshiwon in Seoul
Food Costs in Seoul
Daily Budget Ranges
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Street food (tteokbokki, kimbap) | ₩3,000–₩6,000 |
| Casual local restaurant | ₩7,000–₩12,000 |
| Western food or brunch café | ₩15,000–₩25,000 |
| Monthly grocery bill | ₩250,000–₩400,000 |
Budget tip: Korean marts like EMart Everyday are affordable, while Costco and department store groceries are pricey.
Transportation Costs
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Subway or bus ride | ₩1,250–₩1,450 |
| T-money card (monthly top-up) | ₩60,000–₩80,000 |
| Taxi start fare | ₩4,800 |
| KakaoTaxi (short ride) | ₩6,000–₩12,000 |
💡 Use KakaoMetro or Naver Maps to find fastest, cheapest routes.
📍 Seoul Metropolitan Government: https://english.seoul.go.kr
Internet, Phone & Utilities
| Item | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi (home) | ₩30,000–₩45,000 |
| SIM card (unlimited LTE) | ₩30,000–₩60,000 |
| Gas/Electric (studio) | ₩60,000–₩120,000 |
Lifestyle, Coffee & Fun
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Café latte | ₩4,000–₩6,000 |
| Cinema ticket | ₩13,000 |
| Gym (monthly) | ₩50,000–₩80,000 |
| Karaoke (noraebang) | ₩15,000/hr |
| Haircut (men) | ₩15,000–₩25,000 |
Average Monthly Budget Estimates (2025)
| Profile | Budget (KRW) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Traveler | ₩700,000–₩1,000,000 | $530–$750 |
| Student / Digital Nomad | ₩1,200,000–₩1,800,000 | $900–$1,350 |
| Comfortable Expat | ₩2,000,000+ | $1,500+ |
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Living in Seoul
- 🏠 Live in a goshiwon or shared housing
- 🍽 Eat like a local – kimbap, kimchi stew, convenience store combos
- 🧭 Use T-money + public transport
- 📦 Buy secondhand via apps like Karrot Market (당근마켓)
- 🎯 Use free city Wi-Fi and libraries for remote work
FAQ | Cost of Living in Seoul (2025)
What is the average cost of living in Seoul in 2025?
The average cost of living in Seoul in 2025 ranges from ₩1,200,000 to ₩2,000,000 per month ($900–$1,500), depending on your housing, lifestyle, and transportation choices.
Is Seoul affordable for students or digital nomads?
Yes, Seoul can be very affordable if you choose budget housing like goshiwons, use public transportation, and eat local meals. Many students and nomads live comfortably under ₩1,500,000/month.
What are the biggest expenses for living in Seoul?
Housing is the biggest monthly cost in Seoul, followed by food and transport. The cost of living in Seoul can vary a lot depending on your neighborhood and accommodation type.
How much does rent cost in Seoul?
Monthly rent in Seoul ranges from ₩250,000 for goshiwons to ₩1,500,000+ for private apartments. Most expats spend ₩600,000–₩1,000,000 depending on location and room size.
Is it expensive to eat out in Seoul?
Not necessarily. You can enjoy affordable meals like kimbap or tteokbokki for under ₩5,000, while Western-style cafés or restaurants cost ₩15,000–₩25,000 per meal.
How can I reduce the cost of living in Seoul?
To lower your monthly expenses, live in budget housing, cook at home, use public transit with a T-money card, and shop at traditional markets or secondhand apps like Karrot Market.
Final Thoughts on the Cost of Living in Seoul
Living in Seoul can be surprisingly affordable—if you know where to cut costs. From cheap eats to budget housing and efficient transit, there are countless ways to enjoy the city without breaking your wallet. Now that you know the true cost of living in Seoul, you’re better prepared to plan your 2025 move or long-term stay.
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