Thinking about moving to Japan? One of the biggest questions expats ask before making the move is: How much does it cost to live in Japan? 🇯🇵
In this 2025 guide, we break down the cost of living in Japan for expats, including rent, utilities, food, transport, healthcare, and lifestyle expenses. Whether you’re relocating to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, or Fukuoka, this guide will help you budget for your relocation to Japan.
For a complete relocation guide, check out 👉 Moving to Japan.
Housing Costs in Japan 🏠
Housing is often the largest expense when relocating to Japan. Costs vary depending on the city:
- Tokyo – Rent is the highest in Japan. Expect to pay ¥80,000–¥120,000 (£420–£630 / $550–$820) for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre.
- Osaka – More affordable, with central apartments starting around ¥65,000 (£340 / $450).
- Kyoto – Slightly lower than Tokyo, especially outside tourist-heavy areas.
- Fukuoka – Becoming a popular expat destination, with rent around ¥60,000 (£310 / $420).
💡 Many expats choose to live slightly outside the city centre to reduce rent while still enjoying efficient public transport connections.
Utilities and Internet 💡
On average, monthly utilities (electricity, gas, water) cost:
- ¥15,000–¥20,000 (£80–£105 / $100–$140) for a small apartment.
- Internet costs around ¥4,000–¥5,000 (£20–£27 / $30–$35) per month.
Food and Groceries 🍣
Japanese food is both delicious and affordable, especially when eating out.
- Groceries: ¥30,000–¥40,000 (£160–£210 / $210–$280) per month for a single person.
- Dining out: A casual restaurant meal costs ¥800–¥1,200 (£4–£6 / $6–$8).
- High-end dining: Expect ¥5,000+ (£26 / $35) for a full course dinner.
💡 Pro tip: Local supermarkets often discount fresh food in the evenings, making it even more affordable.
Transportation 🚄
Japan’s transport system is world-famous for its efficiency.
- Monthly metro pass: Around ¥10,000 (£53 / $70).
- Taxi start fare: ¥410 (£2.15 / $2.80).
- Shinkansen (bullet train): Tokyo–Osaka ticket costs around ¥14,500 (£77 / $100).
Many expats find they don’t need a car thanks to Japan’s excellent trains and buses.
Healthcare and Insurance 🏥
Healthcare in Japan is high quality and affordable. All residents are required to join either:
- National Health Insurance (NHI) – for self-employed or unemployed residents.
- Employee Health Insurance – for those working in Japan.
Expect to pay around 10–12% of your income toward health insurance contributions. Medical fees are subsidised, so you usually only pay 30% of the total bill.
Lifestyle Costs 🎌
Entertainment and lifestyle in Japan can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want:
- Cinema ticket: Around ¥1,800 (£9.50 / $12).
- Gym membership: ¥7,000–¥10,000 (£37–£53 / $50–$70).
- Mobile phone plan: ¥3,000–¥5,000 (£16–£27 / $22–$35).
Expats in Japan often find that daily expenses like food and transport are cheaper than in Europe or the US, but housing costs (especially in Tokyo) can be higher.
Taxes in Japan 💰
Japan operates a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 5% to 45%, depending on income.
Expats may also need to pay:
- Resident tax – around 10% of income.
- Consumption tax – currently 10% on goods and services.
It’s important to plan your budget with these taxes in mind when relocating to Japan.
Average Monthly Budget for an Expat in Japan (2025)
Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend monthly as a single expat:
- Rent: ¥80,000 (£420 / $550)
- Utilities & Internet: ¥20,000 (£105 / $140)
- Food: ¥35,000 (£185 / $250)
- Transport: ¥10,000 (£53 / $70)
- Healthcare: ¥15,000 (£80 / $105)
- Entertainment & Lifestyle: ¥20,000 (£105 / $140)
Total: ¥180,000 (£945 / $1,250) per month (outside Tokyo may be cheaper).
Final Thoughts
The cost of living in Japan depends on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world, but other cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka offer more affordable options for expats.
Planning ahead is key, and with the right preparation, your move to Japan can be smooth and affordable.
Ready to start planning your move? Get an instant online removal quote today with Advance Moves 👉 Moving to Japan.