Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Busan costs approximately $1,399 per month for one person including rent. That is 14% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $891, Busan is on the more expensive side for Asia. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $644 per month, or $318 outside the centre. Housing therefore accounts for about 23% of a single person's total monthly cost here. A family of four should budget around $3,964 per month excluding rent. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $6.91 and a monthly transit pass $55. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 233 Mbps and Busan scores 74/100 on safety (generally safe), and South Korea offers a digital nomad visa. Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Busan is a city in South Korea, where a single person can expect to spend about $1,399 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $644 per month, or $318 outside the centre. Internet is fast at around 233 Mbps median download speed, and South Korea offers a digital nomad visa. On safety, Busan scores 74/100 — generally safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 83°F and winter highs around 44°F, with roughly 300 sunny days a year.
A single person should budget around $1,399 per month in Busan, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs. A family of four typically needs about $3,964 per month excluding rent.
How much is rent in Busan?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Busan averages $644 per month, dropping to about $318 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $1,226.
Is Busan safe?
Busan scores 74/100 on safety, which is generally safe. Tourist safety is rated 82/100.
How fast is the internet in Busan?
Median download speeds in Busan are around 233 Mbps — fast for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 30 coworking spaces in the city.
Does South Korea offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes — South Korea offers a digital nomad visa. US passport holders can typically stay 90 days visa-free before applying.
What is the weather like in Busan?
Busan sees summer highs around 83°F and winter highs near 44°F, with about 300 sunny days and 117 rainy days per year.
