Madrid vs Seoul

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Madrid is roughly 3% more affordable than Seoul (index 38 vs 39, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Madrid
More affordable overall
3% cheaper than Seoul · Cost index: 38 vs 39

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

38Cost Index39
2,200Median Income /mo2,800
71Safety Index76
22Income Tax %22
271Internet (Mbps)120
200Coworking /mo300

Price Breakdown

MadridCategorySeoul
$1,200/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
5% ← cheaper
$1,140/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
56% cheaper →
$2.5/liter
$12/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
46% ← cheaper
$6.5/meal
$48/month
Monthly Transit Pass
13% cheaper →
$55/month
$140/month
Utilities (Monthly)
18% cheaper →
$170/month
$60/visit
Doctor Visit
58% ← cheaper
$25/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Madrid

Internet271 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability75/100

Seoul

Internet120 Mbps
Coworking$300/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Madrid cheaper than Seoul?

Madrid is cheaper than Seoul. Madrid has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 39/100 for Seoul (New York = 100), making it roughly 3% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Madrid than Seoul?

Madrid is approximately 3% cheaper than Seoul based on cost index scores (38 vs 39, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Seoul could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,914/month in Madrid.

What is the rent comparison between Madrid and Seoul?

In Madrid, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,200/month. In Seoul, the equivalent is around $1,140/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Madrid or Seoul?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Madrid offers 271 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$200/month. Seoul offers 120 Mbps and coworking at ~$300/month. Madrid has a cost advantage of 3%.

What is the average income in Madrid vs Seoul?

The median net monthly salary in Madrid is approximately $2,200 USD, compared to $2,800 USD in Seoul.

Compare Madrid with…

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