SeoulvsHamburg
Overall
💰-2.7%
Seoul is 2.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-4.0%
Housing is 4.0% lower
Dining
🍽️+27.3%
Restaurants 27.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒-27.8%
Food shopping 27.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Hamburg, Germany reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Hamburg by approximately 2.7%. 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 Hamburg. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Hamburg is approximately €1,400.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Hamburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus €14 in Hamburg.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to €115 in Hamburg.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 38%. 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 Hamburg, the same lifestyle would cost around €577. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus €2,018 in Hamburg. 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg 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
Hamburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Hamburg?
The cost of living in Seoul and Hamburg 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 Hamburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 97% of your Hamburg salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Hamburg, you'd need about $48,701 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Hamburg?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 38%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Hamburg 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 Hamburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Hamburg?
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 Hamburg, these figures are €1,577 for singles and €3,818 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Hamburg 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 Hamburg to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
Calculate Salary Equivalence