Cost of Living in Daegu

Housing

Daegu, South Korea’s fourth-largest city, offers a range of housing options, catering to various budgets. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around 600,000 KRW per month, while similar accommodations outside the center can be found for approximately 400,000 KRW. Those seeking larger spaces, such as three-bedroom apartments, should expect to pay between 1,200,000 KRW and 2,000,000 KRW per month, depending on the location and amenities. For those looking to purchase property, prices per square meter in the city center hover around 5,000,000 KRW, whereas outside the center, it drops to about 3,000,000 KRW.

Utilities

Monthly utility costs in Daegu are relatively moderate. Basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection, for an 85 square meter apartment, average around 200,000 KRW. High-speed internet, a necessity for most residents, costs about 30,000 KRW per month. Mobile phone plans vary, but a typical package with moderate data usage and calling minutes can be found for around 50,000 KRW monthly.

Transportation

Daegu boasts a well-connected public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. A one-way ticket on local transport costs 1,300 KRW, while a monthly pass is available for 60,000 KRW. Taxi fares start at 3,300 KRW for the first two kilometers, with additional charges of 100 KRW per 134 meters. Fuel prices for car owners are approximately 1,700 KRW per liter of gasoline, making public transportation a more economical choice for many.

Food and Groceries

The cost of food in Daegu varies depending on dining preferences. Eating out at local restaurants is affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around 7,000 KRW. Mid-range dining options, including three-course meals for two, typically range from 40,000 KRW to 80,000 KRW. For those who prefer cooking at home, grocery prices are reasonable. A liter of milk costs about 2,500 KRW, a loaf of bread is 3,000 KRW, a dozen eggs are 3,500 KRW, and a kilogram of chicken breasts is around 10,000 KRW. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also readily available at local markets and supermarkets.

Education

Education expenses in Daegu depend on the type of institution and the level of education. Public schools are generally affordable, with minimal tuition fees. Private schools and international schools, however, come with higher costs. Annual tuition for international schools ranges from 15,000,000 KRW to 30,000,000 KRW. Higher education institutions, such as universities, charge tuition fees that vary widely, but international students can expect to pay between 4,000,000 KRW and 12,000,000 KRW per semester, depending on the program and institution.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Daegu is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The National Health Insurance (NHI) system covers a significant portion of medical expenses, making healthcare affordable for residents. Monthly NHI contributions are typically around 100,000 KRW, depending on income. Without insurance, a visit to a general practitioner costs approximately 20,000 KRW, while specialist consultations can range from 30,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW. Prescription medication prices are also reasonable, with many common medications costing between 5,000 KRW and 20,000 KRW.

Entertainment and Leisure

Daegu offers a variety of entertainment and leisure activities, catering to diverse interests. Movie tickets cost around 10,000 KRW, while a monthly fitness club membership is typically 60,000 KRW. Dining out, especially in foreign cuisine restaurants or upscale eateries, can be more expensive, with prices ranging from 20,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW per person. Cultural activities, such as museum visits or attending performances, are generally affordable, with ticket prices ranging from 5,000 KRW to 30,000 KRW.

Shopping

Shopping in Daegu ranges from budget-friendly to high-end. Local markets, such as Seomun Market, offer affordable clothing, accessories, and household items. A pair of jeans costs around 50,000 KRW, while a summer dress in a chain store can be found for about 40,000 KRW. For those seeking luxury items, Daegu has numerous department stores and boutiques where prices can be significantly higher. Electronic goods, such as smartphones and laptops, are priced similarly to those in other major cities worldwide.

Summary

Overall, the cost of living in Daegu is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in South Korea. While housing and education can be significant expenses, the city’s affordable transportation, food, and healthcare options help balance the overall cost. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a family, Daegu offers a comfortable and reasonably priced lifestyle.

submitted by traveler no. 060764