Busan, South Korea
Cost of living · 2023 · Asia · Rent +6.8% vs 2022
Rent trend in Busan (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Busan (2023)
Estimated monthly budget in Busan
Based on 2023 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in South Korea (2023)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Busan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Busan | KRW 1,222,000 | KRW 526,400 | KRW 51,700 | KRW 150,400 | — |
| Daejeon | KRW 1,034,000 | KRW 479,400 | KRW 51,700 | KRW 141,000 | -15.4% |
| Incheon | KRW 1,316,000 | KRW 517,000 | KRW 56,400 | KRW 155,100 | +7.7% |
| Seoul | KRW 1,786,000 | KRW 582,800 | KRW 62,980 | KRW 173,900 | +46.2% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Busan in 2023?
In 2023, a single person living in Busan needs approximately KRW 2,033,220/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around KRW 4,183,000/month. Busan is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Busan in 2023?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Busan costs approximately KRW 1,222,000/month in 2023. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around KRW 2,444,000/month. Rent has changed +6.8% vs 2022.
How much do groceries cost in Busan?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Busan are approximately KRW 526,400 in 2023. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Busan?
A monthly public transport pass in Busan costs KRW 51,700 in 2023, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Busan?
Monthly utility costs in Busan average KRW 150,400 in 2023, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Busan expensive to live in?
Busan is located in South Korea (Asia). With a 1-bed rent of KRW 1,222,000/month and total single-person expenses around KRW 2,033,220/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Busan?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Busan costs approximately KRW 10,340 in 2023. Budget around KRW 82,720/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Busan changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Busan from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 19.6% over this period (from KRW 1,144,000 in 2022 to KRW 1,368,458 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Busan?
To live comfortably in Busan in 2023, a single person needs approximately KRW 2,033,220/month. This covers rent (KRW 1,222,000), groceries (KRW 526,400), transport (KRW 51,700), utilities (KRW 150,400) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around KRW 4,183,000/month.