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Suwon, South Korea
Capital City

Follows South Korea Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,750
Retiree Score
100.0
Safety Index
76.2
Healthcare
297 facilities

With a population of 1.2 million, Suwon is no sleepy suburb - it's a bustling economic hub anchored by Samsung Electronics. The city's proximity to Seoul is a double-edged sword, offering access to the capital but also heavy bureaucracy and occasional flooding from its basin-like terrain. However, Suwon's rich history, world-class universities, and thriving sports culture make it an appealing destination for young professionals and families seeking an urban lifestyle outside the capital. Whether you're drawn to Suwon's industrial clout or cultural attractions, this city offers a dynamic alternative to the Seoul metropolitan area.

Can I afford Suwon?

$

Suwon

You could save

1,250/mo

Savings Rate42%

Monthly Costs

Rent $750
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,000

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
42/100
Retiree Score
(i)
100/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
76
Safety
297
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$7
Meal (Mid-range) $65
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $166
Mobile Plan (mo) $31
Gym (mo) *$42
Cinema Ticket $10

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $750
1BR Outside (mo) *$441
3BR Center (mo) $1,600
3BR Outside (mo) *$964

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Yeongtong-gu, Ingyedong
Best For
tech professionals, teachers

Expat Life Notes

Home to Samsung Electronics, Suwon has a robust expat community of engineers and English teachers.

Pros

  • ✓ Modern infrastructure
  • ✓ Safe and clean
  • ✓ Efficient public transport

Cons

  • ✗ Language barrier outside work
  • ✗ High cost of western goods
  • ✗ Crowded city center

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
-6°C°C - 29°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1733 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Also Consider

Anseong-si, South KoreaGongju, South KoreaAttractiveness Score: 79.6Bregenz, AustriaLiving in Bregenz, Austria offers lakeside tranquility and Swiss efficiency, but requires German fluency. Ideal for FIRE seekers who prioritize nature over nighLondon, CanadaLiving in London, Canada offers mid-sized city amenities with small-town friction. Affordable rent and strong healthcare make it a practical choice for expats.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Suwon

Click any question to expand the answer.

Suwon has a population of approximately 1,234,300 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,875 per month in Suwon, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $750/month.

The nearest airport to Suwon is GMP, approximately 38km away.

Suwon is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 76.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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