SeoulvsOslo
Overall
💰+26.7%
Seoul is 26.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+30.0%
Housing is 30.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+81.8%
Restaurants 81.8% pricier
Groceries
🛒+5.6%
Food shopping 5.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Oslo, Norway reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more expensive than Oslo by approximately 26.7%. 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 lower than in Oslo by 23%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Oslo is approximately NOK 14,000.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Oslo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus NOK 180 in Oslo.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to NOK 770 in Oslo.
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 Oslo, the same lifestyle would cost around NOK 5,944. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus NOK 20,804 in Oslo. 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 Oslo, 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 Oslo 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
Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Oslo?
Yes, Seoul is approximately 26.7% more expensive than Oslo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Oslo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Oslo salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Oslo, you'd need about $63,333 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Oslo?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 45%, 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?
Oslo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Oslo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seoul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Oslo for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Oslo?
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 Oslo, these figures are NOK 16,944 for singles and NOK 39,804 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Oslo 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 Oslo to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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