Housing in Busan is a significant part of the cost of living. Apartments are the most common form of housing, ranging from small studio apartments to larger three-bedroom units. The cost varies depending on the location, size, and type of apartment. In the city center, expect to pay higher rents, while suburban areas offer more affordable options. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 700,000 KRW per month, whereas the same apartment outside the center might cost about 500,000 KRW. Larger apartments can range from 1,500,000 KRW to over 2,500,000 KRW per month.
Utilities in Busan include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection. On average, monthly utility bills for a standard apartment can range from 150,000 KRW to 250,000 KRW, depending on usage and the season. Summer and winter months typically see higher utility costs due to increased use of air conditioning and heating. Additionally, internet services cost around 30,000 KRW per month, and mobile phone plans range from 40,000 KRW to 70,000 KRW monthly.
The cost of food and groceries in Busan can vary greatly depending on lifestyle and eating habits. Dining out is quite affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around 8,000 KRW and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing approximately 50,000 KRW. For those who prefer cooking at home, grocery prices are reasonable. A liter of milk costs around 2,500 KRW, a loaf of bread is about 3,000 KRW, and a dozen eggs are approximately 4,000 KRW. Fresh produce and meat are also affordable, with 1 kg of chicken breast costing around 10,000 KRW and 1 kg of apples costing about 7,000 KRW.
Public transportation in Busan is efficient and affordable. The city’s subway system is extensive, with fares starting at 1,300 KRW for a single journey. Monthly transportation passes are available for around 55,000 KRW, which provides unlimited travel on buses and subways. Taxis are also a convenient option, with fares starting at 3,800 KRW for the first 2 kilometers and then 100 KRW for each additional 133 meters. For those who prefer driving, gasoline costs about 1,700 KRW per liter, and car ownership includes expenses such as insurance, maintenance, and parking fees.
For families with children, the cost of education in Busan can be significant. Public schools are free, but there are additional costs for uniforms, school supplies, and extracurricular activities. Private schools and international schools are more expensive, with tuition fees ranging from 10,000,000 KRW to 30,000,000 KRW per year. Higher education institutions also vary in cost, with tuition fees at universities ranging from 4,000,000 KRW to 10,000,000 KRW per semester, depending on the program and institution.
Healthcare in Busan is of high quality and relatively affordable. South Korea has a universal healthcare system, and most residents are covered by the National Health Insurance (NHI). Monthly contributions to the NHI are based on income, typically around 3% of a person’s salary. For those without NHI, private health insurance is available, with premiums ranging from 100,000 KRW to 300,000 KRW per month. Medical services are reasonably priced, with a visit to a general practitioner costing around 20,000 KRW and a specialist visit costing about 50,000 KRW. Prescription medications are also affordable, often costing less than 10,000 KRW.
Busan offers a wide range of entertainment and leisure activities, catering to various interests and budgets. Movie tickets cost around 10,000 KRW, and monthly gym memberships range from 60,000 KRW to 120,000 KRW. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the city’s numerous beaches, parks, and hiking trails for free. Cultural activities, such as museum visits, concerts, and theater performances, vary in cost, with tickets typically ranging from 20,000 KRW to 80,000 KRW.
Miscellaneous expenses in Busan can include personal care items, clothing, and household goods. Personal care products, such as shampoo and toothpaste, are reasonably priced, with a bottle of shampoo costing around 8,000 KRW. Clothing prices vary depending on the brand and quality, with a pair of jeans costing about 50,000 KRW and a summer dress around 40,000 KRW. Household goods, such as cleaning supplies and kitchen utensils, are also affordable, with prices comparable to those in other major cities.
The cost of living in Busan is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in South Korea. While housing and education can be significant expenses, the overall cost of living is balanced by affordable food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment options. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a family, Busan offers a high quality of life with a variety of amenities and services to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
submitted by traveler no. 100726