31 cities covered · Currency: USD ($) · Capital: Pyongyang
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $6.68 | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $26.71 | per meal |
| Cappuccino | $2.00 | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $151 | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | $24.49 | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $64.55 | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $18.70 | per month |
| Fitness club membership | $18.70 | per month |
| Cinema ticket | $4.90 | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $346 | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $241 | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $723 | per month |
P’yŏngyang · pop. 2,863,000
Hamnam · pop. 768,551
Namp’o · pop. 703,317
Hambuk · pop. 667,929
P’yŏngnam · pop. 437,000
Kangwŏn · pop. 363,127
P’yŏngbuk · pop. 359,341
Hamnam · pop. 345,875
P’yŏngnam · pop. 319,554
Kaesŏng · pop. 308,440
Hwangbuk · pop. 307,764
P’yŏngnam · pop. 284,386
Hwangnam · pop. 273,300
Chagang · pop. 251,971
P’yŏngnam · pop. 240,117
Rasŏn · pop. 196,954
P’yŏngbuk · pop. 196,515
Ryanggang · pop. 192,680
P’yŏngbuk · pop. 189,742
Chagang · pop. 168,180
Hamnam · pop. 152,759
Hwangbuk · pop. 128,831
Kangwŏn · pop. 122,934
Hwangnam · pop. 69,195
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in KP
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in KP
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in KP
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in KP
Living costs in KP vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of $686 per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.