How Much Does it Cost to Live in Japan? A Complete Guide to Monthly Expenses for Foreigners Living Alone

• Table of Contents
• Total Living Costs for a Single Person in Japan
• Average Rent in Major Cities in Japan
• Average Utility and Communication Costs in Japan
• What Are the Food Costs in Japan? Cooking vs. Eating Out
• How Much Are Transportation Costs in Japan?
• Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Japan
• Understanding Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Japan
• Five Tips for Reducing Living Costs in Japan
• summary

Total Living Costs for a Single Person in Japan

For anyone planning to live alone in Japan, understanding the monthly living expenses is essential. The cost of living can vary greatly by city, so below, we’ll use Tokyo and Osaka as examples to outline key expenses like rent, utilities, and food

Estimated Living Costs for a Single Person in Tokyo

Tokyo, one of Japan’s most expensive cities, has varying costs depending on the area and lifestyle. Here’s a typical breakdown of monthly expenses for a single person:

As shown above, living alone in Tokyo typically costs between 180,000 and 230,000 yen per month. Rent is a major part of these expenses, so the location and type of apartment you choose will significantly affect your budget.

Estimated Living Costs for a Single Person in Osaka

Osaka tends to have a slightly lower cost of living than Tokyo. For a single person living alone in Osaka, the average monthly expenses are as follows:

Total: Approximately 140,000 to 200,000 yen

Living alone in Osaka usually costs around 140,000 to 200,000 yen per month. Compared to Tokyo, Osaka offers lower rent and transportation costs, making it easier to manage overall living expenses.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of these expenses, covering rent, utilities, food costs, and more!

Average Rent in Major Cities in Japan

For those living alone in Japan, rent is often the biggest monthly expense. Rent varies widely depending on whether you’re in a major city or a rural area, and there can also be large differences depending on the specific neighborhood and type of apartment.

Here, we’ll take a closer look at the average rent in Japan’s major cities.

How Much is Rent for a Single Person in Tokyo?

Tokyo, Japan’s most populated city, also has some of the highest rent costs. The closer you are to the city center, the higher the rent, especially in popular neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ebisu, and Aoyama, where even a small studio apartment often costs over 100,000 yen per month.

However, within Tokyo’s 23 wards, you can find more affordable areas. For example, in neighborhoods like Itabashi and Adachi, studio apartments are often available for around 60,000 to 70,000 yen. If you’re open to living farther out, areas like Hachioji and Nishitokyo sometimes offer studios starting in the 30,000 yen range.

To save on rent in Tokyo, it’s worth considering neighborhoods a bit further from the center, while also keeping in mind commuting times and transportation access.

Reference: 東京都の家賃相場・賃料相場情報を探す｜SUUMO

Rent Comparison: Osaka vs. Nagoya

Compared to Tokyo, rent in Osaka and Nagoya tends to be lower. In central Osaka, especially in areas like Umeda, rental prices are among the highest in the city, but even here, studio apartments can be found starting from 60,000 to 70,000 yen. In Namba, another major downtown area, studio apartments are often available in the 60,000-yen range. In the suburbs, prices can drop further, with similar-sized apartments available around 30,000 yen.

Nagoya is similar, with studio apartments in the city center typically starting from the 50,000-yen range. In the suburbs, you can find good options priced between 30,000 and 40,000 yen.

Reference: 
大阪府の市区郡から家賃相場・賃料相場情報を探す｜SUUMO
愛知県の家賃相場・賃料相場情報を探す｜SUUMO

Tips for Finding Affordable Apartments

There are a few key points to consider when looking for affordable rental properties in Japan. First, choosing older buildings can help you significantly reduce rent costs. Even older apartments are sometimes renovated with clean, updated interiors, offering good value for the price. Additionally, properties within a 10-minute walk of the station tend to have higher rent. By looking at options 15 minutes or more from the station, you may find more affordable choices.

Recommended property search site: Best-Estate!

For finding rental properties in Japan, using a site geared toward foreign residents can be very helpful. We especially recommend Best-Estate, a housing search site specifically for foreigners. Best-Estate offers a wide range of listings and supports seven languages, so you can easily search for an apartment even if you don’t speak Japanese.

With multilingual staff from various countries, Best-Estate allows for video viewings and remote contracts, making it possible to arrange housing even from abroad. The site also offers flexible options, such as housing for minors and listings without penalties for early termination, making it a convenient choice for many situations.

To start your new life in Japan smoothly, check out Best-Estate and find your ideal apartment!

Click here for more details on Best-Estate!

Average Utility and Communication Costs in Japan

In addition to rent, utility and communication costs are essential monthly expenses when living in Japan. Like rent, these costs can vary depending on the area you live in and your lifestyle. 

Here, we’ll provide an overview of the average monthly costs for utilities and communication services for a single person, along with some tips on how to save on these expenses.

Monthly Costs for Electricity, Gas, and Water

According to the 2023 Household Survey for Single-Person Households by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the average monthly utility cost for a single person in Japan (covering electricity, gas, and water) is 15,654 yen. 

Average Internet and Mobile Phone Bills

Communication costs in Japan include internet and mobile phone charges, which vary by provider and plan. Here’s an overview of typical monthly costs:

Reference: インターネットの料金ってどれくらい？｜ポート株式会社

Tips for Saving on Utilities and Communication Costs

Recommended Budget SIM is GTN Mobile!

GTN Mobile is an ideal choice for affordable mobile phone plans designed specifically for foreign residents in Japan. With multilingual support and a simple contract process, you can use it with confidence even if you don’t speak Japanese. GTN Mobile operates on a high-speed 5G network, allowing you to enjoy reliable internet. Payments can be conveniently made at convenience stores nationwide, so a credit card isn’t necessary.

GTN Mobile offers a variety of options, including postpaid and prepaid SIMs, mobile Wi-Fi, and unlimited data plans, so you can select the service that best matches your needs.

To make life in Japan easier, check out GTN Mobile!

Click here for more details on GTN Mobile!

What Are the Food Costs in Japan? Cooking vs. Eating Out

Food expenses are one of the more flexible areas of living costs. In Japan, the cost difference between cooking at home and eating out can be significant, making it an important factor for budget management.

In this section, we’ll look at the difference in expenses between cooking and dining out, as well as some tips for saving on food costs.

Which Is Cheaper: Eating Out or Cooking at Home?

In Japan, eating out is convenient and offers many delicious options, but doing it frequently can drive up your food costs. For a single person, eating out typically costs around 500 yen for breakfast, 800 to 1,000 yen for lunch, and about 2,000 yen for dinner.

For example, meals at fast food or gyudon (beef bowl) chains are about 500 yen per meal, ramen costs around 800 to 1,000 yen, restaurant meals range from 1,500 to 2,000 yen, and dining at izakayas (Japanese pubs) often exceeds 3,000 yen. Overall, eating out tends to be more expensive than cooking at home.

On the other hand, cooking at home can help you save considerably, with average monthly food expenses for a single person around 30,000 yen. Buying ingredients in bulk at supermarkets and planning your meals can make a big difference in savings compared to eating out. Grocery prices in Japan are fairly stable, with minor regional differences. Here are some typical grocery prices:

Shopping at discount stores like Gyomu Super, which offers larger quantities at lower prices, or taking advantage of sale days can further reduce your food costs and help you stay within budget.

Tips for Saving on Food Expenses

If you're looking to save on food costs while living in Japan, here are some helpful tips:

Balancing cooking and eating out occasionally allows you to effectively manage your monthly living expenses in Japan.

How Much Are Transportation Costs in Japan?

Japan has a well-developed public transportation system, making it essential to understand transportation costs as part of your monthly living expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown of the various transportation options available in Japan.

Public Transportation Costs

In Japan, trains and buses are the most common modes of transportation. The monthly cost of public transit varies depending on the distance traveled and the frequency of use. For example, within Tokyo’s 23 wards, the average monthly transportation cost for commuting or daily use is around ¥13,000. In cities like Osaka and Nagoya, public transportation costs range from ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 per month.

If you frequently travel the same route, purchasing a commuter pass (teikiken) can significantly reduce costs. These passes are available for one, three, or six months, providing a cost-effective option for regular travelers.

Taxis are also commonly used in Japan. In Tokyo, the initial fare is about ¥500 for the first kilometer, with an additional ¥100 charged for every 255 meters after that. Be aware that late-night surcharges may apply during early morning hours, which can increase costs.

Reference: 一人暮らしの生活費、いくらかかる？ 食費や電気代の平均は？ 収入別に内訳をシミュレーション｜SUUMO

Other Transportation Options

In addition to public transport, Japan offers several alternative transportation methods such as bicycles and shared mobility services. Bicycles are a popular, cost-effective option, even in urban areas. While the initial cost of purchasing a bicycle ranges from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000, the monthly maintenance costs are minimal.

Another growing option is LUUP, a shared service offering electric scooters and bicycles for rent. These are ideal for short-distance travel in urban areas and are environmentally friendly. The rental system is app-based, with users picking up and dropping off the equipment at designated "ports." The fee structure starts at ¥50 for the initial charge, followed by ¥15 per minute of use. Payments are processed through the app, making it a convenient and cashless option.

Tips for Saving on Transportation Costs

There are several ways to reduce transportation costs while living in Japan:

By utilizing these methods, you can effectively manage your transportation costs and enjoy more affordable living in Japan.

Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Japan

Taking time to refresh through leisure activities is essential for maintaining a high quality of life, especially during breaks from work or study. Japan offers a wide range of entertainment and hobbies to enjoy. In this section, we will provide a detailed overview of the costs associated with various activities.

Costs for Popular Forms of Entertainment

Japan offers a wide variety of entertainment options, from movies and gyms to popular tourist destinations. Here is a breakdown of typical costs:

Popular Activities Among Foreigners and Their Costs

Many foreigners in Japan enjoy activities such as karaoke, hot springs, and experiencing traditional Japanese culture.

Tips for Reducing Entertainment Expenses

Entertainment costs can quickly add up, but there are several ways to enjoy Japan affordably:

Understanding Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Japan

When living in Japan, understanding healthcare costs and insurance is essential, especially for foreigners. Japan’s healthcare system is of high quality and easily accessible for all residents, including foreigners.

Overview of Health Insurance and Its Costs

If you plan to stay in Japan for an extended period, you will likely need to enroll in a health insurance program, either National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI). These programs ensure that you only need to pay about 30% of medical costs, while the rest is covered by the insurance. Without insurance, medical costs can be quite high, so enrollment is crucial.

Reference: 国民健康保険制度｜厚生労働省

Using Medical Facilities and Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Medical services in Japan often require an appointment, and clinics and hospitals in large cities can be busy. With health insurance, you’ll generally be responsible for 30% of the costs.

Reference: 
内科の受診料はいくらかかる？初診料や計算方法について解説｜sokuyaku
1日あたりの入院費用（自己負担額）はどれくらい？｜生命保険文化センター

Medical Services and Support for Foreigners

If you're not fluent in Japanese, finding a medical facility where staff speak English can be comforting. While not all hospitals and clinics offer this service, you can use Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website to search for medical facilities by region and language. This service helps you locate suitable healthcare providers, ensuring a smooth experience when you need medical assistance.

Tips for Reducing Healthcare Costs

There are several ways to keep your medical expenses in check while living in Japan:

Five Tips for Reducing Living Costs in Japan

Now that we've covered the essential expenses for living in Japan, let's look at five practical tips to help you save on your monthly costs without compromising your quality of life. Using these methods will allow you to manage your Japan monthly living cost more efficiently and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

1. Save on Rent and Initial Fees

Since rent is one of the largest components of your living expenses, finding ways to reduce it can significantly lower your overall cost of living in Japan. Consider living in areas slightly outside city centers, such as Itabashi or Adachi in Tokyo, or Hirano and Sumiyoshi in Osaka, where rent is more affordable.

Additionally, look for apartments with no "shikikin (deposit)" or "reikin (key money)" to minimize upfront costs. Foreigners may also benefit from using rental websites specifically tailored to their needs, such as Best-Estate, which offers a wide range of affordable properties for non-Japanese residents.

2. Save on Food by Bulk Buying and Freezing

Food costs can change, but you can save significantly by purchasing groceries in bulk and freezing what you don’t use immediately. Shopping at discount stores like Gyomu Super (a bulk supermarket) and taking advantage of special sales or coupons can help lower your living expenses in Japan.

3.  Eco-Friendly Habits to Save on Utilities

To reduce utility costs, it's important to review your daily habits. By using air conditioners and lights only when necessary and setting appliances to energy-saving modes, you can adopt eco-friendly habits that will help lower your monthly expenses.

4. Cut Communication Costs with Budget SIMs

Communication costs, including mobile phone and internet, can add up quickly, especially if you use large data plans with major carriers. Opting for budget SIM cards can significantly reduce your expenses. For instance, GTN Mobile is a popular option among foreigners, offering affordable plans with multilingual support.

5. Take Advantage of Second-Hand Goods and Recycling Shops

When furnishing your home or purchasing appliances, using second-hand items or visiting recycling shops can greatly reduce your costs. Japan has many recycling shops and second-hand purchase apps like Mercari where you can find high-quality items at affordable prices.

summary

The cost of living for a single person in Japan varies depending on where you live and your lifestyle, but this article has provided a detailed overview of the major expenses like rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment.

By following the cost-saving tips mentioned in this article, you can effectively reduce your living expenses in Japan. Managing your fixed costs, such as rent, food, and communication, can lead to a more affordable and comfortable lifestyle.

We hope this guide helps you plan and manage your monthly living expenses in Japan. With the right approach, you can enjoy your life in Japan while staying within your budget.