SeoulvsMelbourne
Overall
💰+13.3%
Seoul is 13.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+30.0%
Housing is 30.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+54.5%
Restaurants 54.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Melbourne, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more expensive than Melbourne by approximately 13.3%. 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 Seoul are lower than in Melbourne by 23%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Melbourne is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Melbourne. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus A$20 in Melbourne.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to A$170 in Melbourne.
Purchasing power in Melbourne 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 Melbourne, the same lifestyle would cost around A$786. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus A$2,750 in Melbourne. 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 Melbourne, 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 Melbourne 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
Seoul
Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Melbourne?
Yes, Seoul is approximately 13.3% more expensive than Melbourne overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Melbourne?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Melbourne salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Melbourne, you'd need about $56,667 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Melbourne?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 35%, 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?
Melbourne offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seoul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Melbourne for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Melbourne?
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 Melbourne, these figures are A$2,486 for singles and A$5,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Melbourne in 2025 shows notable 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 Melbourne to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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