SeoulvsTel Aviv
Overall
💰+20.0%
Seoul is 20.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+40.0%
Housing is 40.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+72.7%
Restaurants 72.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒-5.6%
Food shopping 5.6% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Tel Aviv, Israel reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more expensive than Tel Aviv by approximately 20.0%. 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 lower than in Tel Aviv by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Tel Aviv is approximately ₪6,000.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Tel Aviv. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus ₪60 in Tel Aviv.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to ₪213 in Tel Aviv.
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 Tel Aviv, the same lifestyle would cost around ₪2,001. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus ₪7,004 in Tel Aviv. 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 Tel Aviv, 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 Tel Aviv 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
Tel Aviv
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Tel Aviv?
Yes, Seoul is approximately 20.0% more expensive than Tel Aviv overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Tel Aviv?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Tel Aviv salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Tel Aviv, you'd need about $60,000 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Tel Aviv?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 42%, 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?
Tel Aviv offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Tel Aviv provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seoul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Tel Aviv for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Tel Aviv?
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 Tel Aviv, these figures are ₪6,501 for singles and ₪14,504 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Tel Aviv 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 Tel Aviv to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
Calculate Salary Equivalence