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Daejeon, South Korea

Follows South Korea Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,520
Retiree Score
100.0
Safety Index
80.4
Healthcare
280 facilities

With a population of 1,443,106, Daejeon is South Korea's fifth-largest metropolis and a technology and research hub. However, the city's bureaucratic headaches and heavy tax burden are a persistent challenge for residents. Daejeon's monsoon-influenced climate features hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters - not ideal for those seeking a temperate oasis. On the plus side, the city's natural surroundings, including mountains and rivers, provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Overall, Daejeon is best suited for those drawn to its academic and research strengths, rather than those seeking an easy, carefree lifestyle abroad.

Can I afford Daejeon?

$

Daejeon

You could save

1,480/mo

Savings Rate49%

Monthly Costs

Rent $600
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$920

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
49/100
Retiree Score
(i)
100/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
80
Safety
280
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2,860
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $3,380
Rice (1kg) *$3
Chicken (1kg) *$8

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$10,000
Meal (Mid-range) $125,000
Cappuccino $5,100
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $220,625
Mobile Plan (mo) $57,833
Gym (mo) *$45,000
Cinema Ticket $15,000

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $600
1BR Outside (mo) *$441
3BR Center (mo) $1,200
3BR Outside (mo) *$964

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Dunsan-dong, Yuseong-gu
Best For
scientists, tech professionals

Expat Life Notes

The Silicon Valley of Korea is a modern city focused on research and science with a notable international faculty group.

Pros

  • ✓ High scientific and tech jobs
  • ✓ Excellent infrastructure and parks
  • ✓ Safe for families

Cons

  • ✗ Lower English prevalence than Seoul
  • ✗ Quieter social/nightlife
  • ✗ High-pressure research culture

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
-4°C°C - 29°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1672 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Daejeon

Click any question to expand the answer.

Daejeon has a population of approximately 1,443,106 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,500 per month in Daejeon, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $600/month.

The nearest airport to Daejeon is CJJ, approximately 42km away.

Daejeon is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 80.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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