Cost of Living in Japan

Written by Rebeka Meszaros Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Rebeka Meszaros

Rebeka is a professional content writer who specializes in marketing, business, travel, and expat tips. She enjoys sharing practical, down-to-earth advice, whether it's helping businesses better their marketing strategy or providing insights about living overseas. Rebeka adds a personal touch to her writing, ensuring that every piece connects with readers.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 16, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

In Japan, a single person can expect to spend around ¥217,746 monthly (roughly $1,400), while a family of four faces costs totaling about ¥649,018 (around $4,200), according to Numbeo.

In this guide we'll break down the cost of living in Japan looking at essentials like food, transportation, utilities, leisure activities, and childcare to give you a clear picture of what to expect. 

*All costs are in Japanese yen (¥), ¥1,000 = US$6.5 or €6.

How expensive is it to live in Japan?

Japan is the 46th most expensive country in the world, according to Numbeo. For a family of four, monthly costs are about ¥457,176, plus an additional ¥191,842 for rent, totaling roughly ¥649,018. A single person can expect to spend around ¥129,583 monthly, with rent adding ¥88,163, making the total about ¥217,746.

Compared to other countries, Japan is somewhere in the middle. In Australia, a family of four faces higher expenses, totaling around ¥893,955 each month, while a single person’s costs are around ¥367,110. Spain is a bit more affordable, with a family of four spending about ¥624,944 monthly and a single person around ¥260,353. So, while Japan isn't the cheapest place to live, it's not as pricey as some countries like Australia (Source: Numbeo).

Most expensive city to live in Japan?

Tokyo is the most expensive city to live in Japan, with monthly costs for a single person averaging around ¥318,407 (approximately $2,050). This is significantly higher compared to other cities like Yokohama and Nagoya, where the monthly expenses for a single person are about ¥201,000 and ¥181,000, respectively. Tokyo's high cost comes from being a major economic and cultural center, where things like housing, dining, and entertainment tend to be pricier than in other cities.

Cheapest city in Japan

Gifu is one of the cheapest cities in Japan, with monthly costs for a single person around ¥123,000 (roughly $800). Miyazaki and Kumamoto also offer relatively low living expenses, at ¥131,000 and ¥134,000 respectively. These cities provide a more budget-friendly lifestyle, which can vbe ideal for those who prioritize affordability without compromising on basic comforts.

Cost of living in Japan vs the UK

When comparing the cost of living in Japan to the UK, Japan generally comes out as the more affordable option, especially for families. In the UK, a family of four can expect to spend around ¥830,920 monthly, while in Japan, the total is closer to ¥649,018. For a single person, the difference is also noticeable; in the UK, the monthly costs are around ¥344,254, compared to Japan's ¥217,746. While Japan has its pricey cities like Tokyo, the overall cost of living remains lower than in the UK, particularly when it comes to rent and everyday expenses (Source: Numbeo).

(London is a separate case, with living costs that far exceed the national average and the Japanese average.)

Comparing the cost of some everyday groceries (Source: Numbeo):

Cost of living in Japan vs the US

Living in Japan is generally cheaper than in the US, especially for families. In the US, a family of four might spend close to ¥996,373 a month, whereas in Japan, it’s around ¥649,018. For a single person, the difference is still noticeable, with monthly costs in the US reaching about ¥410,597 compared to ¥217,746 in Japan. While Tokyo is known for its high prices, overall, the Japan cost of living is more affordable, particularly when it comes to rent and daily essentials, making it a more manageable place to live for many (Source: Numbeo).

Comparison of everyday groceries (Source: Numbeo):

Rent per month

The average monthly rent in Japan varies depending on location and apartment size (Source: Numbeo):

• Apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: ¥88,163
• Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of center: ¥58,470
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) in city center: ¥191,842
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside of center: ¥114,793

For expats moving to Japan, renting can be a challenge, especially in busy cities like Tokyo. The rental market peaks between January and March, as the academic and fiscal year starts in April. This period offers the most options, but high demand means you'll need to act fast and have less room to negotiate. If you're looking for more flexibility, consider moving between April and June or October and December. During these quieter times, you might have better chances to negotiate terms, though the selection is smaller (Source: Forum for Expatriate Management).

How to find an apartment in Japan

Finding a flat in Japan can be tough for foreigners, especially if you don't speak Japanese. Most rentals go through real estate agents who often require a guarantor, usually a Japanese national. Some landlords may hesitate to rent to foreigners due to language barriers or shorter stays, but there are foreigner-friendly options. Websites like GaijinPot Apartments and YOLO HOME have listings tailored for non-Japanese speakers, often with multilingual staff. For more flexible housing without high upfront costs like key money (reikin) or agency fees, check out sharehouses like Sakura House or BORDERLESS HOUSE. These options don't require a guarantor and offer furnished rooms, which can make settling in easier.

Be mindful of unique rental fees in Japan, such as key money and renewal fees every two years. If you want to avoid these costs, public housing through UR might be a good fit, as they don’t require key money or agency fees. If you're looking in Kanagawa Prefecture (just south of Tokyo), the NPO Kanagawa Foreign Resident Support Center provides free consultations and can connect you with foreigner-friendly housing options. To get started, you'll need documents like your passport, residence card, and proof of income. If you're not yet employed, a certificate of eligibility or an offer letter with your salary details will help.

If you need help finding a place to rent in Japan, we're here to support you. We can provide a tailored quote or connect you with trusted local partners who have helped others secure rentals across the country. Let us make your search smoother and stress-free.

Utilities

Utilities are a considerable part of the cost of living in Japan (Source: Numbeo):

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: ¥25,730
• Mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data: ¥3,879
• Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): ¥5,028

Here are some tips to help you lower the Japan cost of living by cutting down on utilities:

• Compare utility providers: Enechange lets you compare electricity and gas plans in English and Japanese to find the best fit. For electricity-specific comparisons, Electricity Choice in Japan (Denryoku Jiyuka) offers market insights and guidance on switching providers
• Simplify your utility costs: Looop offers straightforward electricity plans that make it easy to compare options and find affordable rates.
• Estimate your monthly usage: Use provider tools to gauge your monthly utility usage. Tokyo Gas has an online estimator for gas costs based on household size. Kansai Electric Power provides tools to calculate electricity use and offers tips for cutting down expenses.
• Cut down on utility expenses: Manage and reduce your utility costs with tools and tips from providers and opt for off-peak rates to save more.

Public transport

Getting around Japan as an expat is fairly straightforward; you have trains, subways, buses, and the Shinkansen (bullet train) to get around with. For frequent travel, the Japan Rail Pass is a smart option, offering unlimited access to JR (Japan Rail) lines and bullet trains; check out the details at Japan Rail Pass. In cities, IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are a must-have for smooth travel on trains, subways, and buses, and they also work for small purchases (IC Cards in Japan).

Avoid peak rush hours in busy cities like Tokyo to dodge overcrowded trains — knowing how to navigate the train system can really improve your daily commute (How to Ride the Shinkansen in Japan). While taxis are reliable and clean, they can be pricey, so use apps like JapanTaxi or DiDi to find one when necessary. And tipping isn’t practiced here, so you can simply pay the fare.

Here’s a quick overview of the public transport prices in Japan (Source: Numbeo):

• One-way ticket for local transport: ¥220
• Regular monthly pass: ¥8,000
• Starting fare for a taxi ride: ¥590
• An hour of waiting time in a taxi: ¥3,500
• Gasoline: ¥171 per liter

Food

Japanese supermarkets like Maruetsu, Seiyu, and Aeon offer a wide range of products, including ready-made meals that get discounted in the evenings. If you’re looking for organic produce, look for "オーガニック" or "有機" labels, though these sections are usually small. Smaller shopping carts and more frequent trips to the store are common, so don’t expect to do a massive weekly shop. Many stores have loyalty programs like Aeon’s WAON card, which can help you save on future purchases. Be prepared for lots of plastic packaging; it’s just the norm here. For those craving international foods, stores like Kaldi Coffee Farm and National Azabu (especially in Tokyo) stock foreign goods. Don't forget to bring your own bags, as bagging your groceries is usually done at a separate counter, not by the cashier.

Depending on personal shopping habits and your diet, groceries in Japan cost around (Source: Reddit):

• For a single person: ¥20,000 - ¥30,000
• For a couple: ¥50,000 - ¥80,000
• For a family of four: ¥80,000 - ¥120,000

Here are some average prices for eating out (Source: Numbeo):

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: ¥1,000
• Meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant (three-course): ¥5,500
• McMeal at McDonald's (or equivalent combo meal): ¥750
• Domestic beer (0.5 liter draught): ¥450
• Cappuccino (regular): ¥460
• Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle): ¥155
• Water (0.33 liter bottle): ¥112

Mobile phone plan

To get a mobile plan in Japan, you'll need a Japanese address, ID (residence card, My Number card, or passport), and a Japanese bank account or credit card. Prepaid options are available if you lack these. Ensure your phone is unlocked or SIM-free for use in Japan, and note that major carriers may have limited English support.

Major providers:

• NTT Docomo (ahamo): ¥2,970/month for 20GB, 5-minute free calls.
• au (povo): Flexible plan starting at ¥0, add-ons like 20GB for ¥2,700.
• SoftBank (LINEMO): ¥990/month for 3GB or ¥2,728/month for 20GB, with free LINE app data.

Cheaper options (MVNOs):

• Rakuten Mobile: ¥1,078/month for up to 3GB, ¥3,278 for unlimited data.
• Y!mobile: From ¥2,365/month for 4GB, with family discounts.
• UQ Mobile: Starts at ¥2,365/month for 4GB, with data rollover.
• IIJmio: From ¥850/month for 2GB, flexible options.

Prepaid options:

• From ¥2,000 for 1GB, valid for 30 days.
• Available at convenience stores, electronics shops, and online.

Pocket WiFi & eSIMs:

• Pocket WiFi: Rent for unlimited data, ¥300-¥1,000/day.
• eSIMs: Offered by Rakuten Mobile and ahamo, starting at ¥1,078/month.

Childcare

For expats in Japan, finding childcare can be tricky, especially with the language barrier and different systems. Start looking early since public daycare spots (Ninka) fill up fast. If you’re not fluent in Japanese, consider international daycares or English-speaking babysitting services, but keep in mind these options can cost more. Check with your local city office about possible childcare subsidies, especially if you have a lower income and need help with the Japan cost of living. In big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, expect to pay higher fees for childcare. Also, connecting with local expat communities online can be helpful for advice and recommendations.

Types of daycare in Japan and monthly prices (Source: Japan Living Guide):

• Ninka (Public daycare): ¥10,000 - ¥70,000, sliding scale based on income; prioritized for working parents.
• Ninsho (Private daycare): ¥40,000 - ¥80,000; government-authorized, may be eligible for subsidies.
• Muninka (Unauthorized daycare): ¥60,000 - ¥150,000; privately owned, not government-regulated, easier to secure a spot.
• Yochien (Kindergarten): Mostly free for ages 3–5 in government facilities; focuses on early education.
• International daycares: ¥100,000+; offer English-speaking environment, various programs.
• Nannies: ¥200,000 - ¥300,000 for full-time; personalized in-home care.
• Babysitters: ¥1,500 - ¥3,200/hour; flexible care, often through agencies.
• Au Pairs: ¥50,000 - ¥100,000; in-home care with cultural exchange, plus room and board.

On average for a year (Source: Numbeo):

• Preschool (or kindergarten), full day, private, monthly for 1 child: ¥54,026 (around $350)
• International primary school, yearly for 1 child: ¥1,932,437 (roughly $12,500)

Gym

Japanese gyms are clean and well-equipped but have strict rules. You'll need indoor-only shoes, and covering up tattoos is often required. Memberships are usually monthly, but cancellation can need advance notice. English isn't always spoken, so knowing basic Japanese or using a translation app helps.

Major gym brands and monthly prices:

• Konami Sports Club: ¥7,000 - ¥13,000
• Anytime Fitness: ¥6,500 - ¥8,000
• Tipness: ¥7,000 - ¥12,000
• Joyfit: ¥5,000 - ¥8,000
• Rizap: ¥200,000+ (fixed program, for a year)
• Fitness club, monthly fee for 1 adult: ¥8,546 (roughly $55)