SeoulvsBuenos Aires
Overall
💰-46.7%
Seoul is 46.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-50.0%
Housing is 50.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-36.4%
Restaurants 36.4% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-57.8%
Food shopping 57.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Buenos Aires, Argentina reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Buenos Aires by approximately 46.7%. 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 Seoul are higher than in Buenos Aires by 100%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Buenos Aires is approximately ARS 400,000.
Dining out in Seoul is notably more expensive compared to Buenos Aires. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to ARS 2,500 in Buenos Aires.
Purchasing power in Seoul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 137%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Seoul can expect to spend approximately ₩528,000 per month (excluding rent), while in Buenos Aires, the same lifestyle would cost around ARS 101,900. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus ARS 356,650 in Buenos Aires. 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 Buenos Aires to Seoul, 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 Seoul to Buenos Aires 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
Seoul
Buenos Aires
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Buenos Aires?
No, Seoul is approximately 46.7% cheaper than Buenos Aires. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Buenos Aires?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 68% of your Buenos Aires salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Buenos Aires, you'd need about $34,091 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Buenos Aires?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 137%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seoul offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seoul provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seoul if you prioritize earning potential, or Buenos Aires for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Buenos Aires?
In Seoul, a single person needs approximately ₩1,228,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₩3,648,000. In Buenos Aires, these figures are ARS 401,900 for singles and ARS 956,650 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Buenos Aires in 2025 shows significant 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Buenos Aires to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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