Busan vs Shanghai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Busan, South Korea and Shanghai, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Busan has a monthly cost of $2,950, which is 14.5% lower than Shanghai's $3,450.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Busan offers 100 Mbps, while Shanghai provides 100 Mbps – making Shanghai's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Busan is currently 18°C 🌧️, while Shanghai is experiencing 30°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Busan has a safety score of 84.0 , while Shanghai scores 79.0 .
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Overall
Busan wins
Busan is 7% better
Quality of Life
Busan wins
Busan is 5% better
Busan is 15% better
Cost
Busan wins
Busan is 19% better
Climate
Busan wins
Busan is 28% better
Infrastructure
Busan wins
Busan is 20% better
Social
Shanghai wins
Shanghai is 13% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Busan | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,950 | $3,450 | -14.5% |
| Daily Average | $98 | $115 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Busan | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $850.00 per month | -47.1% |
Daily Life
| Item | Busan | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $3.00 per cup | $2.50 per cup | +20.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Busan | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Busan | Shanghai | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Busan vs Shanghai
Busan ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than Shanghai overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,950 vs $3,450
- Daily Expenses: $98 vs $115
- Busan is 14.5% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Shanghai leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Shanghai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Busan Wins In:
- Overall Score (7% better)
- Safety (5% better)
- Healthcare (15% better)
- Cost of Living (19% better)
- Air Quality (28% better)
- Internet Speed (20% better)
Shanghai Wins In:
- Nightlife (13% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Busan if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Overall Score. However, Shanghai might be preferable if Overall Score is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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