SeoulvsRiyadh
Overall
💰-26.7%
Seoul is 26.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-30.0%
Housing is 30.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-9.1%
Restaurants 9.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-42.2%
Food shopping 42.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Riyadh 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 higher than in Riyadh by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,000.
Dining out in Seoul costs about the same compared to Riyadh. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus SAR 25 in Riyadh.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to SAR 140 in Riyadh.
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 Riyadh, the same lifestyle would cost around SAR 1,307. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus SAR 4,575 in Riyadh. 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 Riyadh 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 Riyadh 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
Riyadh
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Riyadh?
No, Seoul is approximately 26.7% cheaper than Riyadh. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Riyadh?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Riyadh salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Riyadh, you'd need about $39,474 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Riyadh?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 73%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Riyadh 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 Riyadh for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Riyadh?
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 Riyadh, these figures are SAR 3,307 for singles and SAR 8,575 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Riyadh 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 Riyadh to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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