Real Cost of Living in Seoul vs Smaller Cities
A Korean Local’s Honest Guide for International Students
If you’re planning to study in Korea, you’ve probably asked the golden question: Is living in Seoul really that expensive? And would I save money by choosing a smaller city instead?
As a Korean local who’s watched countless international students struggle (and succeed!) with budgets, here’s the honest, practical breakdown you need—without the sugarcoating.
This is the real cost of living in Korea, based on what students actually spend, not glossy tourism brochures.
Seoul: Exciting, Fast, Convenient… and Yes, Expensive
Seoul is Korea’s center of culture, jobs, nightlife, and everything in between. But the convenience comes at a price, especially for housing and daily living.
1. Housing Costs
Here’s where your wallet feels the pain the most.
- Dormitory: Affordable but very competitive
- One-room studio: Easily double the price of smaller cities
- Goshiwon: Cheaper, but tiny and often noisy
Seoul housing is all about paying more for location, convenience, and proximity to your university.
2. Food & Groceries
Seoul has endless food options—from street snacks to Michelin restaurants. But convenience equals higher cost.
Eating out is pricier, but foreign ingredients and international food are widely accessible.
3. Transportation
Seoul’s subway system is huge and reliable. Even though distances are longer, transportation costs stay reasonable thanks to the subway’s fixed-rate structure.
Smaller Cities: Affordable, Chill, and Surprisingly Comfortable
Think Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju, and Jeonju.
These cities may not have Seoul’s nonstop energy, but they offer:
- Cheaper rent
- Lower food and transportation costs
- Friendlier locals
- Less crowded living
- Cleaner, more spacious dorms
If you prefer a relaxed lifestyle over flashing city lights, a smaller Korean city might actually be a better fit.
Real Cost Comparison (Seoul vs Smaller Cities)
Below is a simplified comparison based on typical monthly spending for international students living in Korea:
Housing (One-room Studio)
- Seoul: High
- Smaller Cities: Much cheaper, often 30–50% less
Food
- Seoul: High when eating out; groceries moderately priced
- Smaller Cities: Cheaper restaurants and local markets
Transportation
- Seoul: Affordable but used more often
- Smaller Cities: Extremely cheap; you can often walk everywhere
Lifestyle Costs
- Seoul: Entertainment, gyms, cafes, and activities cost more
- Smaller Cities: Less variety but more budget-friendly
Which Is Better for International Students?
Choose Seoul if you want:
- Endless things to do
- Large expat communities
- Many part-time job opportunities
- International cuisine
- Convenient transportation
- Big city excitement
Choose a Smaller City if you want:
- Affordable rent
- Calm, relaxed daily life
- Closer connection to locals
- Lower overall living costs
- A more immersive Korean experience
Many students say they save money and focus better in smaller cities, while others love Seoul’s energy too much to leave. Your lifestyle preference matters more than anything.
Korean Local’s Advice
If you’re worried about money, start in a smaller city.
If you want maximum convenience, choose Seoul.
If you want both… consider universities in the Seoul suburbs like Suwon, Incheon, or Uijeongbu. They offer a balance between cost and convenience, and you can reach Seoul within an hour.
Final Thoughts
Korea is an amazing place to study, no matter which city you choose. But knowing the real cost differences helps you plan smarter, avoid stress, and enjoy your experience fully. Choose based on your budget, personality, and lifestyle—not just the city’s reputation.