Cost Of Living In Japan – Expats And Digital Nomad Guide
The estimated cost of living for a family of four is USD $3,263 and USD $924 for a single person per month without rent. The cost of living in Japan varies extensively from one city to another; for example, the cost of living in Tokyo is more than that of Oasaka and so on.
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Wonder what the cost of living in Japan is for expat individuals and families? Do you know you can further budget your expenses with international health insurance? This Pacific Prime article will cover the cost of living for expats so you can live your dream life in Japan to the fullest.
The Cost Of Living In Tokyo, Japan
The cost of living in Japan is on the higher end compared to other cities; home rentals are about USD $1100, so if you are thinking about moving to Tokyo, be thorough about your budget calculations.
Note that the cost of living can vary depending on where you choose to live within the city. Here are the top few locations for digital nomads and expats in Tokyo:
Cost Of Living In Shinagawa, Tokyo
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Shinagawa, you can expect to pay anywhere from USD $750 to USD $1496 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Of course, the exact price will depend on factors such as the size of the apartment, its location, and the age of the building.
Shinagawa is a bustling district in Tokyo that has a lot to offer in terms of convenience and accessibility. However, as with many other areas in Tokyo, the cost of living in Shinagawa can be quite high.
Imported goods and specialty items can be expensive. However, if you’re willing to shop at local markets and cook your own meals, you can save a significant amount of money.
Transportation costs in Shinagawa can also add up quickly. If you rely on public transportation to get around, you’ll need to budget for train and bus fares, which can vary depending on the distance you’re traveling. Taxis are also an option, but they can be quite expensive.
Cost Of Living In Setagaya, Tokyo
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Setagaya, you can expect to pay around USD $599 to USD $1123 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Note that the exact price will depend on various factors such as location, size, etc.
Setagaya is a popular residential district, and you will be pleased to know that compared to other areas in Tokyo, the cost of living in Setagaya is relatively reasonable. Transportation costs are affordable too! Train and bus fares are generally lower than in other parts of Tokyo.
The Cost of Living in Osaka
Osaka is a fun alternative for Tokyo but with a more economical cost of living situation. Osaka is vibrant and has a fun nightlife culture. Moreover, housing here is reasonably priced, and there are many areas to choose from.
Cost of Living in Namba, Osaka
The average cost of housing in Namba is around USD $1200. This location is popular among expats for its shops and nightlife. The public transport system is also well-connected, so you don’t have to worry about your commute options, but keep in mind that these costs add up quickly.
Cost of Living Tennoji, Osaka
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Tennoji, you can expect to pay around USD $374 to USD $749. As a vibrant district in Osaka boasting a rich history and diverse community, the cost of living is still relatively affordable. Transportation costs are around the same as Namba, so budget your commute expenses.
The Cost Of Living In Hiroshima
Hiroshima offers a great balance of affordability, culture, and entertainment. The city is peaceful, with beautifully designed streets and leisure centers. And most importantly, living in Hiroshima is not as expensive as living in Tokyo or Osaka.
Cost of Living in Naka, Hiroshima
The average accommodation cost in Naka is around USD $800, very affordable despite the fact that it is the central district of Hiroshima. The cost of living here is costlier than in other locations, but the money spent is worth it as you have the excitement of trying out all the shops, restaurants, and bars.
Cost of Living in Nishi, Hiroshima
The average accommodation cost in Nishi is around USD $500. The city is encompassed by the sea and mountains, making it perfect for a beach day or a hike. If you are into outdoor activities or hiking, Nishi is definitely your place.
The Cost Of Living In Fukuoka
Fukuoka was once listed as one of the most livable cities in the world because of its affordable cost of living and favorable living conditions. In addition, the city also attracts a lot of expats and digital nomads from all over the world.
Cost of Living in Chuo, Fukuoka
The accommodation cost is around USD $800, slightly higher than in the rest of the city, as Chuo is the central district. You can find everything you need here, from massive shopping arcades to small, cozy family-run restaurants.
Cost of Living in Sawara, Fukuoka
The average accommodation is USD $600 in Sawara, offering affordable housing options for many digital nomads and expats. As a bonus, the region is surrounded by the spectacular Momochi Beach, perfect for a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle if that’s what you want.
Conclusion
Japan is a huge country, and locations outside Tokyo are relatively affordable for expats and digital nomads. Given that living costs vary from one location to another, we suggest choosing a location that meets your requirements and budget.
If you are still deciding where to live in Japan, check out our extensive guide on the best places for expats in Japan.
To budget effectively, we recommend you secure a comprehensive expat health insurance plan for peace of mind. You will have to pay for unexpectedly expensive hospital bills out of your pocket without insurance coverage.
We understand that choosing the right health insurance plan can be overwhelming. Pacific Prime has over 20 years of work experience in the insurance industry and can help you find a plan that meets your requirements.
Get in touch with Pacific Prime today, or get a FREE quote!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Japan an expensive country for expats?
For Americans, the cost of living in Japan is about 55% lower than in the United States, and the rent here is 57% lower compared to the states. The cost of living varies from one location to another.
What Are the Most Expensive and Cheapest Places to Live in Japan?
Kyoto and Kawasaki have some of the lowest rents in Japan. On the other hand, Tsushima City and Fukuoka have low living costs in terms of utilities, groceries, etc. Tokyo is the most expensive to live in Japan.
Can a digital nomad live cheaply in Japan?
While there are a lot of affordable living options in Japan, if you want to live cheaply as a digital nomad, you may want to budget accordingly. For example, make your own meals, live in shared spaces, etc.
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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Are there any cultural events or festivals that are must-see experiences for newcomers? How do expats typically integrate into the local community, and what resources are available to help with this process?
Japan is rich with must-see cultural events, such as the springtime Hanami (cherry blossom viewing), Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri festival in July, and the vibrant Awa Odori dance festival in Tokushima. Expats can integrate into local communities by joining language exchange programs, participating in local classes or cultural activities, and connecting with expat groups through platforms like Meetup or Internations. To make your move to Japan seamless, consider reaching out to Pacific Prime for expert advice on comprehensive international health insurance plans tailored to your needs—contact us today!
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