Seoul vs Fukuoka

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Seoul is roughly 1% more affordable than Fukuoka (index 39 vs 40, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Seoul
More affordable overall
1% cheaper than Fukuoka · Cost index: 39 vs 40

Life Power at $3,000/mo

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

Head-to-Head Stats

39Cost Index40
2,800Median Income /mo3,100
76Safety Index85
22Income Tax %20
120Internet (Mbps)122
300Coworking /mo170

Price Breakdown

SeoulCategoryFukuoka
$1,140/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
54% ← cheaper
$520/month
$2.5/liter
Meal for One
52% ← cheaper
$1.2/liter
$6.5/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
46% cheaper →
$12/meal
$55/month
Monthly Transit Pass
$55/month
$170/month
Utilities (Monthly)
24% ← cheaper
$130/month
$25/visit
Doctor Visit
58% cheaper →
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Seoul

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

Fukuoka

Internet122 Mbps
Coworking$170/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability68/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seoul cheaper than Fukuoka?

Seoul is cheaper than Fukuoka. Seoul has a cost of living index of 39/100 compared to 40/100 for Fukuoka (New York = 100), making it roughly 1% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Seoul than Fukuoka?

Seoul is approximately 1% cheaper than Fukuoka based on cost index scores (39 vs 40, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Fukuoka could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,958/month in Seoul.

What is the rent comparison between Seoul and Fukuoka?

In Seoul, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,140/month. In Fukuoka, the equivalent is around $520/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Seoul offers 120 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$300/month. Fukuoka offers 122 Mbps and coworking at ~$170/month. Seoul has a cost advantage of 1%.

What is the average income in Seoul vs Fukuoka?

The median net monthly salary in Seoul is approximately $2,800 USD, compared to $3,100 USD in Fukuoka.

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