Living in Daegu
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
South Korea
Monthly Cost
$941
Internet
200 Mbps
Safety
7.3/10
Rent (1BR)
$377
Living in Daegu — Quick Take
Best for: Remote workers seeking value
Cost level: Low ($941/mo)
Main downside: Bureaucracy can be slow
Quick Facts
$941/mo
Low7.3/10
Average200 Mbps
Fast$377
Cheap$2,163/mo
2.4M
Major CityMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Daegu For?
The combination of pricing and connectivity works well for online professionals.
Housing availability and security make family relocation feasible.
Budget-wise, $941/month is competitive globally.
Retirement here is feasible given the safety and expense levels.
Want more amenities? Krakow offers a higher standard.
Best Neighborhoods in Daegu
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Dongseongno tops the list at /10
Dongseongno is the main shopping and entertainment district of Daegu, known for its busy streets filled with fashion stores, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a central hub for young people and visitors.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Daegu, South Korea.
Pros and Cons of Living in Daegu
Pros
- Very affordable cost of living - ideal for budget-conscious expats
- Generally safe for expats with normal precautions
- Fast internet (200 Mbps) - great for remote work
- High NomadIQ score (8.1/10) - excellent for digital nomads
Cons
- No major drawbacks identified based on available data
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$2,163/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
5.7x
Rent takes a reasonable chunk of income here—the ratio sits at 5.7x.
The income-to-cost balance is favorable for those earning locally.
Cost Insight
Daegu is one of the more affordable options for expats. Your money stretches further here.
Rent is only around 40% of total costs. Day-to-day expenses add up here.
That's 306% cheaper than Krakow at $3,823/month.
Common Questions About Daegu
How much does it cost to live in Daegu?
About $941/month for one person. Actual costs vary based on habits and neighborhood.
Is Daegu safe for expats?
Daegu is reasonably safe with normal precautions with a 7.3/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Daegu good for remote workers?
With 200 Mbps average speeds, Daegu is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Daegu?
A 1-bedroom averages $377/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Daegu
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Daegu
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Excellent
Quick Stats
Safety Score
7.3/10
Internet Speed
200 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$941
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Daegu is highly recommended for digital nomads and expats looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $941, a safety score of 7.3/10, and internet speeds of 200 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Daegu deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.
We use cookies, analytics tools and advertising technologies, including Google Analytics, Meta Pixel and other advertising/analytics cookies, to improve our site, measure performance and personalise your experience. You can accept or decline at any time.