City comparison
Tokyo vs Seoul Cost of Living
Based on current benchmark indexes, Seoul is estimated to be 15.3% more expensive than Tokyo overall. Rent differs by -9.1%.
Move planning summary
If your monthly income is 5,000 in Tokyo, the comparable income signal for Seoul is about 5,766 before exchange-rate and tax differences.
Transport changes by +520.0% and utilities change by +800.0% based on the current benchmarks. Treat these as planning signals, then verify neighborhood-level rent and local transit passes.
Run your own numbersCost comparison table
| Category | Tokyo | Seoul |
|---|---|---|
| Cost index | 54.2 | 62.5 |
| Rent index | 24.3 | 22.1 |
| Groceries index | 64.3 | 76 |
| Restaurant index | 35.9 | 42.9 |
| 1BR rent | ¥138,700 | ₩1,050,000 |
| Monthly transport | ¥10,000 | ₩62,000 |
| Monthly utilities | ¥30,000 | ₩270,000 |
Data quality
Both cities are currently marked medium confidence. The index data is suitable for early comparison, while absolute rent and utility values should be treated as planning benchmarks.
FAQ
Is Seoul more expensive than Tokyo?
In this sample, Seoul is 15.3% more expensive than Tokyo by overall cost index.
How much income would I need in Seoul?
As a simple index-based example, 5,000 in Tokyo maps to about 5,766 in Seoul, before exchange rates and taxes.
Does this comparison convert currencies?
No. The calculator keeps your own inputs in one currency and applies relative cost indexes. Currency conversion is a future feature.
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