SeoulvsManila
Overall
💰-36.0%
Seoul is 36.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-44.0%
Housing is 44.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-30.9%
Restaurants 30.9% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-42.2%
Food shopping 42.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Manila by approximately 36.0%. 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 higher than in Manila by 79%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Seoul is notably more expensive compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Purchasing power in Seoul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Manila.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 73%. 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 Manila, the same lifestyle would cost around ₱14,510. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus ₱50,785 in Manila. 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 Manila 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 Manila 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
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Manila?
No, Seoul is approximately 36.0% cheaper than Manila. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 74% of your Manila salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $36,765 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 79%, 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?
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 Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Manila?
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 Manila, these figures are ₱34,510 for singles and ₱95,785 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Manila 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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