Seoul vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Comparing Seoul and Dhaka reveals a massive disparity in economic scale and cost of living. Seoul is a hyper-modern, high-income metropolis where the cost of living is significantly higher than in Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh. While Seoul offers world-class infrastructure and high purchasing power, Dhaka remains one of the most affordable major cities in South Asia for those earning in foreign currencies.
Is Seoul more expensive than Dhaka?
Yes, Seoul is substantially more expensive than Dhaka. On average, consumer prices in Seoul are approximately 120% to 150% higher than in Dhaka, excluding rent. When including rent, the gap widens further. While a resident in Seoul benefits from much higher average salaries and superior public services, the sheer cost of maintaining a middle-class lifestyle in Seoul requires nearly triple the budget needed for a comparable lifestyle in Dhaka. Local purchasing power in Seoul is roughly 250% higher than in Dhaka, meaning that while things cost more, local earners are generally better equipped to pay for them.
Housing & Rent in Seoul vs Dhaka
Housing is the most significant expense in both cities, but the price points are vastly different. In Seoul, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between $800 and $1,300 USD per month, often requiring a massive 'Key Money' deposit (Jeonse or Wolse). In contrast, a similar apartment in a decent area of Dhaka might cost between $250 and $450 USD. Property prices per square meter in Seoul are nearly 8 to 10 times higher than those in Dhaka, making homeownership a distant dream for many in the Korean capital compared to the growing middle class in Dhaka.
Groceries & Dining Out
Food costs in Seoul are among the highest in East Asia, particularly for fresh produce and fruit. A kilogram of apples or a liter of milk in Seoul can cost double or triple the price in Dhaka. Dining out also reflects this gap: a basic meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Seoul costs around $8-$10 USD, whereas in Dhaka, a local meal can be found for $2-$4 USD. However, Seoul offers a much wider variety of international cuisines and high-end dining experiences that are less prevalent in Dhaka.
Public Transit & Fuel Costs
Seoul's public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency and cleanliness, with a flat subway fare of approximately $1.10 USD. Dhaka's transport is dominated by rickshaws, CNGs (auto-rickshaws), and a bus system that is significantly cheaper but often plagued by extreme congestion. Gasoline prices are much higher in Seoul, often exceeding $1.30 per liter, compared to more subsidized or lower-cost fuel in Bangladesh. While Seoul is more expensive to navigate, the reliability and time saved provide significant indirect value.
Lifestyle, Utilities, & Entertainment
Utilities including electricity, heating, and water for a standard 85m2 apartment in Seoul average around $160 USD per month, while in Dhaka, they usually hover between $60 and $90 USD. High-speed internet is a standard and relatively affordable utility in Seoul given its infrastructure, whereas quality high-speed fiber can be more expensive and less reliable in Dhaka. Fitness memberships and cinema tickets are roughly 50-70% more expensive in Seoul.
How to get from Seoul to Dhaka
There are currently no direct flights between Seoul (ICN) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers typically opt for connecting flights through major Asian hubs such as Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), or Guangzhou (CAN). The total travel time generally ranges from 10 to 15 hours depending on the duration of the layover. Major carriers serving this route include Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and China Southern.
The Verdict: Seoul or Dhaka?
The choice between Seoul and Dhaka depends entirely on your professional requirements and budget. Seoul is the ideal destination for digital nomads and families seeking safety, high-tech amenities, and a structured environment, provided they have a monthly budget exceeding $3,000 USD. Dhaka offers a much lower cost of entry, making it an attractive hub for NGO workers, entrepreneurs in the textile industry, or those looking to maximize their savings while living on a Western salary, though they must navigate significant infrastructure and traffic challenges.
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