SeoulvsSão Paulo
Overall
💰-36.0%
Seoul is 36.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-40.0%
Housing is 40.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-27.3%
Restaurants 27.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-50.0%
Food shopping 50.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than São Paulo 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 São Paulo by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.
Dining out in Seoul is notably more expensive compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus R$30 in São Paulo.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.
Purchasing power in Seoul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to São Paulo.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 100%. 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 São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. 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 São Paulo 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 São Paulo 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
São Paulo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than São Paulo?
No, Seoul is approximately 36.0% cheaper than São Paulo. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to São Paulo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 74% of your São Paulo salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $36,765 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and São Paulo?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 100%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 São Paulo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs São Paulo?
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 São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and São Paulo 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in São Paulo to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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