San Francisco vs Seoul

Cost of Living Comparison (2026)

Overall Verdict

Seoul is 69% cheaper than San Francisco overall. San Francisco is very expensive while Seoul is moderate.

$1,969/mo
San Francisco 1BR Rent
$1,129/mo
Seoul 1BR Rent

Cost Comparison

CategorySan FranciscoSeoulWinner
1BR Rent (City Center)$1,969/mo$1,129/moSeoul
3BR Rent (City Center)$3,321/mo$1,988/moSeoul
Meal (Inexpensive)$20$10Seoul
Meal for 2 (Mid-Range)$74$47Seoul
Monthly Groceries$472$317Seoul
Monthly Transport$102$67Seoul
Monthly Utilities$192$121Seoul
Internet$72/mo$37/moSeoul
Coffee$5$3Seoul
Beer (Domestic)$7$5Seoul
Gym Membership$59/mo$28/moSeoul

Quality of Life Comparison

Overall Quality
85
San Francisco
82
Seoul
Safety
50
San Francisco
82
Seoul
Healthcare
82
San Francisco
85
Seoul
Education
83
San Francisco
84
Seoul
Internet Speed
156
San Francisco
170
Seoul
Nightlife
88
San Francisco
80
Seoul

Which City Is Better For...

Budget LivingSeoul
SafetySeoul
HealthcareSeoul
NightlifeSan Francisco
FamiliesSeoul
Remote WorkSeoul

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