AmsterdamvsSeoul
Overall
💰-6.3%
Amsterdam is 6.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-33.3%
Housing is 33.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-31.3%
Restaurants 31.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+28.6%
Food shopping 28.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Amsterdam, Netherlands and Seoul, South Korea reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Amsterdam is more affordable than Seoul by approximately 6.3%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Amsterdam are higher than in Seoul by 50%. A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam's city center costs around €1,900, while the same in Seoul is approximately ₩1,200,000.
Dining out in Amsterdam is notably more expensive compared to Seoul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Amsterdam versus ₩8,000 in Seoul.
Public transportation in Amsterdam is more affordable, with monthly passes at €100 compared to ₩55,000 in Seoul.
Grocery shopping in Amsterdam is more affordable by approximately 22%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Amsterdam can expect to spend approximately €586 per month (excluding rent), while in Seoul, the same lifestyle would cost around ₩528,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €2,050 monthly in Amsterdam versus ₩1,848,000 in Seoul. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Seoul to Amsterdam, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Amsterdam to Seoul requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Amsterdam
Seoul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amsterdam more expensive than Seoul?
No, Amsterdam is approximately 6.3% cheaper than Seoul. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Amsterdam compared to Seoul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Seoul salary when living in Amsterdam. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Seoul, you'd need about $47,059 in Amsterdam for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Amsterdam and Seoul?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 50%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Amsterdam offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Amsterdam provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Amsterdam if you prioritize earning potential, or Seoul for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Amsterdam vs Seoul?
In Amsterdam, a single person needs approximately €2,086 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €4,550. In Seoul, these figures are ₩1,228,000 for singles and ₩3,648,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Amsterdam and Seoul in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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