SeoulvsCalgary
Overall
💰-4.0%
Seoul is 4.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+36.4%
Restaurants 36.4% pricier
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Calgary by approximately 4.0%. 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 similar than in Calgary. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Seoul.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. 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 Calgary 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 Calgary 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
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Calgary?
The cost of living in Seoul and Calgary is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 96% of your Calgary salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $48,077 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 27%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary 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 cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Calgary?
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 Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Calgary 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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