Despite Seoul and Korea being famous for being one of the most expensive places to live in, it can be comparatively very affordable to find student housing and a cheap hearty meal. If you are planning to move to Korea and are wondering about the housing options, prices and the cost of living in the country, continue reading this article to find out the different affordable housing options for students and the average cost of living.
Student Housing:
- Dormitories: Most universities in Korea offer on-campus dormitories for international students. The cost of a dormitory room can range from 300,000 to 500,000 KRW per month, depending on the location and facilities. Students will typically share a room with one or more roommates, and the dormitories often provide shared bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities.
- Off-Campus Housing: Many students in Korea opt to live off-campus in apartments or shared houses. Rent for a small studio or one-bedroom apartment can range from 500,000 to 1,000,000 KRW per month, depending on the location and facilities. Shared apartments or houses can be a more affordable option, with rent typically ranging from 300,000 to 600,000 KRW per month.
Living Costs:
- Food: The cost of food in Korea can vary depending on where and what you eat. Eating at restaurants or cafes can range from 5,000 to 20,000 KRW per meal. Cooking at home can be more affordable, with groceries costing around 100,000 to 150,000 KRW per month.
- Transportation: Korea has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. A single bus or subway ride typically costs around 1,250 KRW, while a monthly transportation pass can cost around 50,000 to 100,000 KRW depending on the location.
- Other living expenses: Other expenses such as entertainment, clothing, and personal care items can vary depending on personal preferences and lifestyle. However, students can expect to spend around 200,000 to 300,000 KRW per month on these expenses.
Overall, students can expect to spend around 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 KRW per month on housing and living costs in Korea. It is important to note that these costs can vary depending on the location and personal choices, and students should do thorough research and budget planning before making any decisions.
