South Korea attracts professionals, digital nomads, students, and language learners year after year—and having lived there myself, I can understand why. From Seoul’s skyline to Jeju Island’s tranquil beauty, South Korea is a country rich in history and culture.
However, when planning to relocate to a new place, there are many factors to consider. As inflation continues to rise globally, understanding the cost of living in your destination is essential. In this South Korea budget guide, Remitly provides you with the knowledge and resources you need to feel confident in your move.
Housing costs in South Korea
If you’re relocating to South Korea for a job, your company may provide you with accommodation or a housing allowance. During my time teaching English as a second language, I was provided with an apartment paid for by my school, where I was only responsible for covering the utilities. However, if you’re a freelancer or digital nomad looking for your own space, finding affordable housing in South Korea can be challenging.
Seoul remains the most expensive city in South Korea to settle in, with monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging 910,000 KRW (approximately $660 USD as of June 2025). In smaller cities like Daegu, you’ll find similar apartments for around 533,000 KRW (approximately $580 USD as of June 2025).
Types of housing available in South Korea
There are several options available to those looking for short- to medium-term housing.
- Apartments: Located in high-rise buildings, most apartments offer two to four rooms and are a good choice for families and professionals in need of more space than a studio or officetel can offer
- Officetels: A blend between a home and an office, officetels are smaller and best for individuals. They are found in more commercial areas and come fully furnished.
- Villas: Typically found in a low-rise building no higher than five stories, villas are a popular choice amongst families or individuals in search of more privacy
If you’re a student, you can look into university dormitories or affordable studios while you complete your degree.
Tips for renting in South Korea
One thing to remember is that South Korea has two different rental systems. The Jeonse system requires a large deposit (often 50-80% of the property value) to be paid upfront instead of paying monthly rent. This is also referred to as key money.
If a large, upfront deposit is not within your monthly budget, it is best to look for apartments in the Wolse system, where you pay monthly rent and provide a deposit of two to three months, similar to renting in the United States.
There are many resources in Korea to help you find your new home. Using sites like Ziptoss can help your search, as they offer English services to help break down rental contracts and more.
Food and grocery expenses
If you’re a foodie, South Korea will speak to your soul and your stomach. Known internationally for its cuisine, the country offers a variety of fresh, tasty options—and you can eat out without breaking the bank.
A quick breakdown of food prices in South Korea
Let’s take a look at the average prices for food staples and eating out. Keep in mind that while the cost of living in Seoul and other major cities is higher overall, smaller cities will have slightly lower prices in restaurants and stores. The prices below represent the national average:
- A kilo (2.2 pounds) of rice: 4,170 KRW (about $3 USD)
- A liter (2.1 pints) of milk: 2,960 KRW (about $2.15 USD)
- A dozen eggs: 4,130 KRW (about $3 USD)
- A kilo (2.2 pounds) of chicken: 12,700 KRW (about $9.25 USD)
- A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: 10,000 KRW (about $9.30 USD)
- A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant: 30,000 KRW (about $21.80 USD)
*Average prices from Numbeo, (as of June 2025).
Saving money on groceries
If you’re looking to save or are simply on a tighter budget, you can still enjoy the country’s cuisine from your kitchen—after a quick stroll around the Sunday market for some fresh produce. Markets offer a wallet-friendly way to buy local products.
Imported products, such as chocolate and beer, are a bit pricier due to the current markups. You can see this right away when shopping in larger chain stores like E-Mart and Homeplus. To save money, stick to local products where possible.
Chains like E-Mart are a great place to shop, as they often have deals and offer a one-stop shopping experience for groceries, clothing, and home goods.
Transportation costs
South Korea’s transportation infrastructure ranks among the best in the world. The subway and bus systems in major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Incheon are inexpensive and rarely late. Taking advantage of the public transportation options is a great way to reduce living expenses in Seoul and other major cities.
Navigating public transport in South Korea
When you arrive, you can purchase a transport card at the airport and refill it at any time. T-money and Cashbee are two main transport cards that allow commuters to easily and quickly pay for rides when moving around Seoul or other cities in Korea. You can reload the cards in the subway or a convenience store like 7-Eleven or Ministop.
If you’re not used to such large subway systems or getting around Korea in general, using apps like Subway Korea can help you better navigate your new environment, no matter where you’re in the country.
Of course, if you’re in Korea for the long haul, cities like Seoul offer 30-day passes with the climate card, allowing you to use any form of public transport for 65,000 KRW, which can be discounted depending on age.
Other transportation options
If you’re short on time, taxis are easily available in most cities. In Seoul, the base fare for a regular taxi starts at 4,800 KRW for up to 1.6km, which is adjusted at night and if a larger vehicle is required.
As time passes and you settle into daily life, it could be worthwhile to own your own car. Of course, cars come with costs—fuel, insurance, and maintenance typically average about 220,000 KRW per month.
Healthcare costs
South Korea provides a universal healthcare system that covers residents and those on long-term visas. Public health insurance is mandatory and contributions are automatically deducted from salaries.
If you plan to stay longer than six months in the country, you must have insurance. You can take out an international health insurance policy while you wait to be covered under the national care.
While much is covered under the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), the average co-pay is generally between 20% and 50%, depending on whether you require specialist care or specific treatments and tests.
Utilities and internet
On a cold winter’s day, nothing beats ondol, or underfloor heating, to keep your feet toasty. While it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your usage and budget, utilities often don’t cost as much in South Korea as many may think.
The government pays for water, and some officetels will handle both water and gas payments, which leaves you with only the electricity bill. Gas bills are often paid every two months. Check with your accommodation to find out which payments you are responsible for.
Paying bills in South Korea
The easiest way to ensure that your bills are paid on time is to set up bank transfers. If you prefer to pay your bills in cash, you can take your bill to the nearest convenience store and make the payment directly.
Once you have your internet set up, you can also pay online. South Korea is known for having some of the fastest and most accessible internet services in the world. Providers like SK Broadband and KT Olleh offer the option to rent a router starting at 55,000 KRW per month.
When it comes to budgeting, you might consider putting aside around 160,000 KRW at first for internet and all utilities each month, and adjust accordingly once you’re all set up and have some bills you’ve already paid.
Education and childcare expenses
Education can be one of the biggest expat costs in South Korea. Although elementary through middle school is provided free of charge, the classes will be taught in Korean. For those coming from overseas seeking English-language schools, there are several options.
English-language schools in South Korea
A foreigner school will have 70% foreign students and 30% Koreans. Korean students must have at least one foreign parent or have lived abroad for at least three years. This ensures that English is the main language spoken at all times at the school.
International schools, on the other hand, do not have the same requirements, and you will notice a lower percentage of native English speakers in these schools. However, each choice has its pros and cons, and you might consider talking with different schools to better understand your options when settling into your new home.
The average cost for foreigner and international schools is between 20,000 KRW and 35,000 KRW ($17,500 to $31,000 USD). For parents of younger children, there are many options for early childcare support that cost on average 1,100 KRW per month.
South Korea budget guide for entertainment and leisure
There is so much to see and do in South Korea that you might consider creating a list to help you budget properly. From everyday activities like going to the gym and shopping to cultural excursions to see the beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom, costs can add up quickly.
For general leisure activities like movies, concerts, and museums, you will most likely pay anywhere between 5,000 and 15,000 KRW. Gym memberships, depending on the amenities you’re looking for, can cost anywhere between 50,000 and 100,000 KRW per month. If you’re looking to add to your wardrobe or are simply taken by South Korean fashion, prices for good quality jeans, for instance, can cost around 79,000 KRW.
While every day won’t be an adventure, maintaining a balanced routine and budget can help you afford some bigger-ticket excursions. Korea offers many K-pop concerts, summer festivals, and in general, many people enjoy traveling around the country when schools are on holiday to see different cities and cultural sites.
As prices for festivals and concerts can vary greatly, you might consider what you’d like to do throughout the year so you can save some extra money for these special occasions.
South Korea cost of living 2025: final tips
In 2025, South Korea is one of the top destinations for professionals and travelers alike, and being prepared will allow you to enjoy the country and all it has to offer. That’s why Remitly has put together resources to help you budget and learn about your potential new home.
The cost of living may be on the rise worldwide, but with knowledge comes power. When planning your move or travels, it is a good idea to ask yourself what is most important to you and be honest about your needs.
Using apps to manage your budget or using Remitly for international transfers can significantly reduce the stress associated with finances. We can even help you send money to South Korea while you are first getting settled. Plan ahead to navigate your move smoothly and enjoy your time in South Korea, exploring the culture and all the country has to offer.
FAQs
What is the average cost of living in South Korea in 2025?
A single person, on average, spends about 1.5 million KRW, or $1090 USD, per month, excluding rent.
Is South Korea a good place to live?
It depends on your taste, but South Korea offers an excellent mix of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and a relatively affordable cost of living.
Can foreigners find affordable housing in South Korea?
Yes, affordable housing in South Korea is possible, especially outside central Seoul. One-room studio apartments (called officetels) are a popular and affordable choice for expats.