Seoul vs Dublin: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Seoul (South Korea) and Dublin (Ireland) reveals a cost-of-living index of 74.4 in Seoul versus 80 in Dublin (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Seoul is 7.0% more affordable than Dublin.

Metrological Indicator Seoul (South Korea) Dublin (Ireland)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 74.4 80
Rent Index 33.2 66.7
Groceries Index 89.7 62.1
Restaurant Price Index 45 76.3
Local Purchasing Power Index 82.4 93.5
1-Bed Apartment in City Center ₩1,144,000 €2,028
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal ₩10,400 €18.72
Monthly Public Transit Pass ₩57,200 €119.60
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) ₩187,200 €205.92
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 71.5/100 · Health 88.2/100 Safety 51.4/100 · Health 68.2/100

Is Seoul more expensive than Dublin?

Dublin has a higher overall cost-of-living index (80) compared to Seoul (74.4), representing an index differential of 5.6 points (7.0% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Seoul and Dublin?

In Seoul, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages ₩1,144,000/month (Rent Index: 33.2), whereas in Dublin it averages €2,028/month (Rent Index: 66.7).

→ Seoul Full Cost Report → Dublin Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Seoul

The cost of living in Seoul, South Korea is indexed at 74.4 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Seoul are defined by a Rent Index of 33.2. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about ₩1,144,000 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Seoul, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages ₩10,400, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around ₩5,200. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately ₩57,200, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging ₩187,200 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Seoul secures a safety index rating of 71.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 79.4/100, healthcare standard scores 88.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 98.6 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: SEOUL-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Dublin

The cost of living in Dublin, Ireland is indexed at 80 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Dublin are defined by a Rent Index of 66.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €2,028 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Dublin, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €18.72, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €4.11. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €119.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €205.92 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Dublin secures a safety index rating of 51.4/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 81.2/100, healthcare standard scores 68.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 91.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: DUBLIN-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED