SeoulvsShanghai
Overall
💰-13.3%
Seoul is 13.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠+10.0%
Housing is 10.0% higher
Dining
🍽️-18.2%
Restaurants 18.2% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-22.2%
Food shopping 22.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Shanghai, China reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more affordable than Shanghai 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 Shanghai by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Shanghai is approximately CN¥8,000.
Dining out in Seoul is notably more expensive compared to Shanghai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus CN¥30 in Shanghai.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to CN¥260 in Shanghai.
Purchasing power in Seoul is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Shanghai.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 29%. 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 Shanghai, the same lifestyle would cost around CN¥1,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus CN¥6,930 in Shanghai. 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 Shanghai 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 Shanghai 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
Shanghai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Shanghai?
No, Seoul is approximately 13.3% cheaper than Shanghai. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Shanghai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 88% of your Shanghai salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Shanghai, you'd need about $44,118 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Shanghai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 29%, 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 Shanghai for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Shanghai?
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 Shanghai, these figures are CN¥6,480 for singles and CN¥16,930 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Shanghai 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 Shanghai to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
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