Tel AvivvsSeoul
Overall
💰-16.7%
Tel Aviv is 16.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-28.6%
Housing is 28.6% lower
Dining
🍽️-42.1%
Restaurants 42.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+5.9%
Food shopping 5.9% more
Comparing the cost of living between Tel Aviv, Israel and Seoul, South Korea reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tel Aviv is more affordable than Seoul by approximately 16.7%. 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 Tel Aviv are higher than in Seoul by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tel Aviv's city center costs around ₪6,000, while the same in Seoul is approximately ₩1,200,000.
Dining out in Tel Aviv is notably more expensive compared to Seoul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₪60 in Tel Aviv versus ₩8,000 in Seoul.
Public transportation in Tel Aviv is more affordable, with monthly passes at ₪213 compared to ₩55,000 in Seoul.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Tel Aviv can expect to spend approximately ₪2,001 per month (excluding rent), while in Seoul, the same lifestyle would cost around ₩528,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₪7,004 monthly in Tel Aviv versus ₩1,848,000 in Seoul. 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
Tel Aviv
Seoul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tel Aviv more expensive than Seoul?
No, Tel Aviv is approximately 16.7% cheaper than Seoul. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Tel Aviv compared to Seoul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Seoul salary when living in Tel Aviv. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Seoul, you'd need about $42,857 in Tel Aviv for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Tel Aviv and Seoul?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 73%, 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?
Seoul 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 Tel Aviv if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Seoul for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tel Aviv vs Seoul?
In Tel Aviv, a single person needs approximately ₪6,501 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₪14,504. In Seoul, these figures are ₩1,228,000 for singles and ₩3,648,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Tel Aviv and Seoul 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 Seoul to maintain your lifestyle from Tel Aviv
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