Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Jeju Island (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Jeju Island, South Korea
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Jeju Island, South Korea for an expat in 2026 averages ₩700,000–1,000,000 ($520–$745) per month for rent (1-br, jeju city center). Key costs include rent (1-br, jeju city center) (₩700,000–1,000,000 ($520–$745)), rent (1-br, seogwipo/suburbs) (₩500,000–700,000 ($370–$520)), groceries (₩400,000–600,000 ($300–$450)).
Jeju Island is a popular destination for expats relocating to South Korea. Jeju Island is South Korea's largest island and its premier lifestyle destination — a volcanic UNESCO Global Geopark with tangerine orchards, black lava beaches, and Hallasan, South Korea's tallest mountain. Increasingly popular with Korean remote workers and international digital nomads, Jeju offers a relaxed pace far from Seoul's intensity. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, Jeju City center) | ₩700,000–1,000,000 ($520–$745) |
| Rent (1-BR, Seogwipo/suburbs) | ₩500,000–700,000 ($370–$520) |
| Groceries | ₩400,000–600,000 ($300–$450) |
| Transport (bus + car rental) | ₩200,000–400,000 ($150–$300) |
| Utilities | ₩100,000–150,000 ($75–$110) |
| Health insurance | ₩100,000–200,000 ($75–$150) |
| Dining out (2–3×/week) | ₩300,000–500,000 ($225–$370) |
| Entertainment | ₩150,000–250,000 ($110–$185) |
| Total | ₩1,500,000–2,500,000 ($1,100–$1,860) |
Jeju Island Quick Facts
Best For
Remote workers, nature lovers, Korean culture seekers
Monthly Budget
₩1,500,000–2,500,000 ($1,100–$1,860)
1-BR Rent
₩600,000–900,000/mo ($450–$670)
Internet
~200 Mbps avg.
English
Limited — Korean helpful
Climate
Subtropical — mild winters, humid summers
Airport
CJU — Korea's busiest route to Seoul (1 hr)
Visa-free
30–90 days for most nationalities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Jeju Island per month?
Monthly costs in Jeju Island depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, jeju city center) (₩700,000–1,000,000 ($520–$745)), rent (1-br, seogwipo/suburbs) (₩500,000–700,000 ($370–$520)), groceries (₩400,000–600,000 ($300–$450)). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Jeju Island affordable for expats?
Jeju Island is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Jeju Island?
Rent (1-BR, Jeju City center): ₩700,000–1,000,000 ($520–$745). Rent (1-BR, Seogwipo/suburbs): ₩500,000–700,000 ($370–$520). Transport (bus + car rental): ₩200,000–400,000 ($150–$300)