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Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
Seoul is 17% cheaper than Busan
Quick answer
Comparing Seoul, South Korea and Busan, South Korea: a moderate single-person monthly budget is approximately $2,100 in Seoul versus $1,750 in Busan. Seoul is roughly 17% cheaper overall. Central 1-bed rent: $1,000/mo (Seoul) vs $500/mo (Busan). Estimates use World Bank PPP data + national statistics + (where available) item-level price snapshots.
Key facts
| Lifestyle | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 🇰🇷 Busan | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1,450/mo | $1,250/mo | -14% |
| Moderate | $2,100/mo | $1,750/mo | -17% |
| Comfortable | $3,150/mo | $2,650/mo | -16% |
Estimates for a single person. Based on World Bank PPP data and national statistics.
| Category | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 🇰🇷 Busan | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (1-bed, center) | $1,000/mo | $500/mo | -50% |
| Groceries & Food | $420/mo | $350/mo | -17% |
| Dining Out | $140/mo | $120/mo | -14% |
| Transport | $45/mo | $35/mo | -22% |
| Utilities & Internet | $210/mo | $175/mo | -17% |
| Healthcare | $168/mo | $140/mo | -17% |
| Leisure & Personal | $147/mo | $123/mo | -16% |
Explore more: Seoul city guide | Busan city guide | South Korea