Cost of Living in North Korea 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers

North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a highly controlled and centrally planned nation located in East Asia. Pyongyang, the capital, is the most developed city, while other regions remain rural with limited infrastructure. The cost of living in North Korea is unique due to government regulations, restricted markets, and limited access for foreigners. Most residents receive subsidized housing and basic goods, but foreigners and diplomats operate within a separate economic framework with higher living costs.

Learn more about the country here: North Korea.

Cost of Living in North Korea: Summary Table

Housing & Rent Prices in North Korea

3.1 Apartment Rent (Monthly)

Most local residents receive government-assigned housing. Foreigners and diplomats must use designated accommodations.

• 1-bedroom in city center (Pyongyang): $400 – $800
• 1-bedroom outside center: $300 – $600
• 3-bedroom in city center: $700 – $1,000
• 3-bedroom outside center: $500 – $800

3.2 Buying Property

Foreigners cannot own property in North Korea. Housing is state-controlled and not bought or sold freely.

Food & Grocery Costs

Food prices for foreigners are higher due to reliance on imported goods and restricted markets.

• Milk (1 liter): $2.00 – $3.00
• Bread (loaf): $1.00 – $2.00
• Rice (1 kg): $1.50 – $3.00
• Eggs (12): $2.00 – $4.00
• Chicken (1 kg): $4.00 – $8.00
• Beef (1 kg): $6.00 – $12.00
• Apples (1 kg): $2.00 – $4.00
• Tomatoes (1 kg): $1.50 – $3.00
• Bottled water (1.5 L): $1.00 – $2.00
• Soft drinks: $1.00 – $2.00

Estimated monthly grocery cost:

• Single person: $250 – $350
• Family of four: $350 – $500

Restaurant & Dining Costs

• Inexpensive meal: $3 – $7
• Mid-range meal for 2: $20 – $40
• Hotel restaurant meal: $20 – $60
• Coffee: $2 – $4
• Soft drinks: $1 – $2

Transportation Costs

• Bus/tram ticket (Pyongyang): $0.10 – $0.30
• Taxi (per km): $1.00 – $2.00
• Chauffeur car (common for foreigners): $20 – $40 per trip
• Fuel (per liter): $1.20 – $1.80

Utility Costs

• Electricity: $10 – $20
• Water: Usually state-provided
• Heating: Government regulated
• Internet: $20 – $40 (restricted access)
• Mobile plans: $5 – $10

Healthcare Costs

Foreigners use designated healthcare facilities with separate pricing.

• Doctor visit: $10 – $20
• Specialist visit: $20 – $50
• Basic medicines: $2 – $10

Education Costs

• Public schools (locals): Provided by the state
• International schools: $500 – $2,000 annually

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

• Gym membership: $10 – $30
• Movie ticket: $3 – $7
• Cultural events: $5 – $20
• Tour packages (required for visitors): Higher costs apply

Cost of Living for Different Groups

11.1 Cost of Living for Singles

Singles usually spend $900 – $1,500 depending on accommodations and restricted access to goods.

11.2 Cost of Living for Couples

Couples typically need $1,400 – $2,500 per month.

11.3 Cost of Living for Families

Families of four spend $1,800 – $3,200 depending on schooling and imported goods.

11.4 Cost of Living for Students

Foreign students have very limited access, but those studying under government programs usually spend $600 – $1,000 monthly.

11.5 Cost of Living for Expats

Expats typically spend $1,200 – $2,500 per month due to separate pricing systems and stricter regulations.

Comparison With Other Countries

• North Korea vs South Korea: South Korea is far more expensive but offers modern infrastructure.
• North Korea vs China: North Korea has a lower cost of living but limited access to goods.
• North Korea vs Mongolia: Mongolia is cheaper and more open to foreigners.

Pros & Cons of Living in North Korea

Pros

• Low-cost public transportation
• Government-subsidized housing for locals
• Quiet, low-stress environment

Cons

• Restricted access for foreigners
• Limited availability of goods and services
• Strict regulations on movement and communication
• Few entertainment options

Final Summary

North Korea offers a unique cost of living shaped by its centralized economy and restricted market system. Housing and transport can be affordable, but foreigners face higher costs due to limited access to local services. It is most suitable for diplomats, aid workers, and individuals on official assignments. While infrastructure varies greatly, the highly controlled environment makes everyday life predictable but limited.

• Best Cities in North Korea
• Best Places to Visit in North Korea
• Top Universities in North Korea
• Best Shopping Malls in North Korea
• Best National Parks in North Korea
• Best Hospitals in North Korea
• Best Hotels in North Korea

FAQs

Is North Korea expensive to live in?

Foreigners generally find North Korea moderately expensive due to limited markets and separate pricing systems.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in North Korea?

A salary of $1,200 – $2,000 is usually enough for comfortable living for foreigners.

What is the average rent in North Korea?

Rents for foreigners range from $300 to $1,000 depending on location and housing type.

Is North Korea good for expats?

North Korea is suitable mainly for diplomats and officials due to strict regulations.

Is North Korea cheaper than South Korea?

Yes, North Korea is cheaper overall, but offers fewer goods and less modern infrastructure.