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Seoul vs Shanghai – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Seoul, South Korea and Shanghai, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Seoul has a monthly cost of $3,360, which is 2.6% lower than Shanghai's $3,450.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Seoul offers 300 Mbps, while Shanghai provides 100 Mbps making Seoul's connection 200.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Seoul is currently 25°C 🌤️, while Shanghai is experiencing 26°C ⛈️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Seoul has a safety score of 87.0 , while Shanghai scores 76.0 .

Costs
$3,360
per month
Internet
300
Mbps
Weather
25° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$3,450
per month
Internet
100
Mbps
Weather
26° ⛈️
High today
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Overall Seoul wins

66.0
Overall Score
58.0

Seoul is 8% better

Quality of Life Seoul wins

87.0
Safety
76.0

Seoul is 11% better

88.0
Healthcare
70.0

Seoul is 18% better

Cost

32.0
Cost of Living
31.0

Climate Seoul wins

35.0
Air Quality
29.0

Seoul is 6% better

Infrastructure Seoul wins

96.0
Internet Speed
73.0

Seoul is 23% better

Social Seoul wins

84.0
Nightlife
75.0

Seoul is 9% better

90.0
Culture
87.0
91.0
Food Scene
90.0

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Seoul Shanghai Difference
Monthly Total $3,360 $3,450 -2.6%
Daily Average $112 $115 per day

Housing

Item Seoul Shanghai Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $850.00 per month $850.00 per month 0.0%

Daily Life

Item Seoul Shanghai Difference
Coffee $3.50 per cup $2.50 per cup +40.0%

Transportation

Item Seoul Shanghai Difference

Utilities

Item Seoul Shanghai Difference
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Final Verdict: Seoul vs Shanghai

Seoul ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 8.0% higher than Shanghai overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $3,360 vs $3,450
  • Daily Expenses: $112 vs $115
  • Seoul is 2.6% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Seoul leads with 200% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Shanghai has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Seoul Wins In:
  • Overall Score (8% better)
  • Safety (11% better)
  • Healthcare (18% better)
  • Air Quality (6% better)
  • Internet Speed (23% better)
  • Nightlife (9% better)
Shanghai Wins In:
  • No significant advantages found

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Seoul 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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