Cost of Living Comparison Between Kaesong and Pyongyang Cost of Living Comparison Between Kaesong and Pyongyang

Meal at Budget Restaurant

$4.93 $4.93

Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range

$36.29 $36.29

Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)

$21.75 $21.75

Cappuccino

$1.18 $1.18

Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)

$2.23 $2.23

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.34 $1.34

Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$13.66 $13.66

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$5.16 $5.16

Milk (1 liter)

$0.92 $0.92

White Bread (500g)

$2.41 $2.41

Rice (white) (1kg)

$0.97 $0.97

Eggs

$2.08 $2.08

Gym Membership (Monthly)

$77.0 $77.0

1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$92.3 $92.3

1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$91.8 $91.8

3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$141 $141

Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)

$257 $257

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update for Kaesong: August 18, 2026

Last update for Pyongyang: August 15, 2026

City Median Internet Speeds Comparison (Updated April 2026)

The chart highlights the Precision Threshold for mobile and fixed broadband internet speeds, updated quarterly.

Digital Nomad Cost of Living Index

Kaesong vs Pyongyang: Cost of Living - Frequently Asked Questions

Families tend to lean toward Kaesong – lower housing and cheaper childcare make a real difference, especially on a single income or when paying for private education.

Both have safer and rougher neighborhoods, but overall safety is comparable to other large cities. Neighborhood choice matters more than the city-level comparison – central, well-trafficked areas feel secure in both.

If budget matters most, go with Kaesong. If higher salaries, better infrastructure, or specific career opportunities are the priority, Pyongyang makes more sense. Both are solid long-term options with distinct trade-offs.