Cost of Living in Incheon, Korea
Last updated on Apr 10, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Incheon, Korea? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Incheon talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Incheon high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Incheon, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Incheon is considered moderate compared to other major cities in South Korea. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite affordable, while a similar apartment outside the city center is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also relatively low. When it comes to food, local groceries are reasonably priced, and dining out at inexpensive restaurants is also quite affordable. However, dining at mid-range to high-end restaurants can be more expensive. Public transportation in Incheon is efficient and affordable, with options ranging from buses to subways. Taxis are also available but can be more costly. Healthcare in Incheon is of high quality and is relatively affordable, especially with the national health insurance that covers a significant portion of medical costs. Education, particularly international schooling, can be quite expensive. Overall, the cost of living in Incheon is lower than in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, but it can still be considered high compared to other countries in Asia. The cost can also vary greatly depending on one's lifestyle and spending habits," said one expat in Incheon.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Will I save money living in Incheon?
"The cost of living in Incheon, South Korea, is generally lower than in many parts of the United States. This includes expenses such as rent, groceries, and dining out. Public transportation in Incheon is also quite affordable and efficient, which could potentially save you money on car-related expenses. However, the amount of money you save can depend on your lifestyle and spending habits. For instance, if you frequently purchase imported goods or dine at high-end restaurants, your cost of living may be higher. Additionally, healthcare in South Korea is typically less expensive than in the United States, which could also contribute to overall savings. It's also worth noting that salaries in South Korea may be lower than in the United States, so this could affect your overall budget," remarked one expat in Incheon.
What is the average cost of housing in Incheon?
If you are thinking about moving to Incheon, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Incheon can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. As of recent data, for purchasing an apartment in the city, the cost can range from moderately priced to quite expensive. For those looking to rent, the monthly cost can also vary widely. It's important to note that these prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market conditions," said one expat in Incheon.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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