Ulsan vs Shanghai – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Ulsan, South Korea and Shanghai, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Ulsan has a monthly cost of $2,490, which is 27.8% lower than Shanghai's $3,450.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Ulsan offers 100 Mbps, while Shanghai provides 100 Mbps – making Shanghai's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Ulsan is currently 25°C 🌤️, while Shanghai is experiencing 24°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Ulsan has a safety score of 87.0 , while Shanghai scores 76.0 .

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Overall
Quality of Life
Ulsan wins
Ulsan is 11% better
Ulsan is 13% better
Cost
Ulsan wins
Ulsan is 20% better
Climate
Ulsan wins
Ulsan is 10% better
Infrastructure
Ulsan wins
Ulsan is 21% better
Social
Shanghai wins
Shanghai is 37% better
Shanghai is 26% better
Shanghai is 22% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Ulsan | Shanghai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,490 | $3,450 | -27.8% |
Daily Average | $83 | $115 | per day |
Housing
Item | Ulsan | Shanghai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $850.00 per month | -47.1% |
Daily Life
Item | Ulsan | Shanghai | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Beer | $3.00 per pint | $3.00 per pint | 0.0% |
Meal (Inexpensive) | $5.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | +25.0% |
Transportation
Item | Ulsan | Shanghai | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Ulsan | Shanghai | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Ulsan vs Shanghai
Shanghai ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 1.0% higher than Ulsan overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,490 vs $3,450
- Daily Expenses: $83 vs $115
- Ulsan is 27.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Shanghai leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Shanghai has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Ulsan Wins In:
- Safety (11% better)
- Healthcare (13% better)
- Cost of Living (20% better)
- Air Quality (10% better)
- Internet Speed (21% better)
Shanghai Wins In:
- Nightlife (37% better)
- Culture (26% better)
- Food Scene (22% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Shanghai if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Safety. However, Ulsan might be preferable if Safety 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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