Is Seoul housing expensive?

Seoul is usually the highest-pressure rental market in Korea, but commute, deposit, housing type, and neighborhood matter more than city averages.

What should foreigners prioritize?

Prioritize commute, address registration, deposit safety, contract clarity, language support, and total monthly cost.

Use official Seoul foreign resident resources and consider housing counseling for contract or deposit questions.

/Seoul housing for foreigners

Last verified 2026-07-01

Seoul housing is dense, fast-moving, and deposit-sensitive, so foreigners need a process before comparing rooms.

Start with commute and visa or school constraints, then compare neighborhoods, rent, deposit, address eligibility, agent support, and contract risk.

Seoul housing is a commute and deposit decision first, not only a room preference decision.
Foreigners should verify address eligibility before signing if they need Residence Card records.