Seoul vs Madrid

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

39Cost Index38
2,800Median Income /mo2,200
76Safety Index71
22Income Tax %22
120Internet (Mbps)271
300Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

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

Digital Nomad Profile

Seoul

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

Madrid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seoul cheaper than Madrid?

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 Seoul and Madrid?

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

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

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

What is the average income in Seoul vs Madrid?

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

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