SeoulvsVancouver
Overall
💰+6.7%
Seoul is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+60.0%
Housing is 60.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+36.4%
Restaurants 36.4% pricier
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Vancouver, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more expensive than Vancouver by approximately 6.7%. 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 Vancouver by 38%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Vancouver is approximately CA$2,600.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Vancouver. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus CA$20 in Vancouver.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 compared to CA$131 in Vancouver.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Vancouver, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$698. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul versus CA$2,443 in Vancouver. 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 Vancouver, 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 Vancouver 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
Vancouver
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Vancouver?
Yes, Seoul is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Vancouver overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Vancouver?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Vancouver salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Vancouver, you'd need about $53,333 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Vancouver?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 38%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Vancouver offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Vancouver provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seoul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Vancouver for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Vancouver?
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 Vancouver, these figures are CA$2,798 for singles and CA$5,943 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seoul and Vancouver in 2025 shows moderate 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 Vancouver to maintain your lifestyle from Seoul
Calculate Salary Equivalence