Fukuoka vs Tokyo: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Fukuoka (Japan) and Tokyo (Japan). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Fukuoka is about 65% cheaper than Tokyo on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging ¥86,000 versus ¥245,000 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Fukuoka | Tokyo |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Japan | Japan |
| Currency | JPY (¥) | JPY (¥) |
| 1BR Rent Range | ¥62,000 - ¥110,000Cheaper | ¥170,000 - ¥320,000 |
| 2BR Rent Range | ¥85,000 - ¥155,000Cheaper | ¥240,000 - ¥480,000 |
| Groceries / mo | ¥20,000Cheaper | ¥28,000 |
| Transport Pass / mo | ¥7,500Cheaper | ¥11,000 |
| Dining Out / mo | ¥10,500Cheaper | ¥15,000 |
| English Level | 2/5 (Basic) | 3/5 (Moderate)Cheaper |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 5 | 8 |
| Healthcare System | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) |
What does your salary buy in Fukuoka?
Enter your gross monthly salary to see your take-home pay, affordable neighborhoods, and savings potential
Free calculator with 2026 tax rates. No data stored.
Not sure where to start? See minimum salary needed
Start guided calculatorVerdict
Overall, Fukuoka tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.
Explore Fukuoka
5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
View Fukuoka detailsExplore Tokyo
8 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
View Tokyo detailsCalculate your salary in both cities
Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Fukuoka and Tokyo.
Open the comparison calculatorRelated comparisons
Other cost-of-living comparisons featuring Fukuoka or Tokyo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fukuoka or Tokyo cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Fukuoka is about 65% cheaper than Tokyo — averaging ¥86,000 versus ¥245,000 per month. Overall, Fukuoka is generally cheaper to live in across rent, groceries, transport, and dining, though costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.
What is rent like in Fukuoka vs Tokyo?
In Fukuoka, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥62,000 to ¥110,000 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In Tokyo, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥170,000 to ¥320,000 per month across 8 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Fukuoka vs Tokyo?
A monthly public transport pass costs ¥7,500 in Fukuoka and ¥11,000 in Tokyo. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Fukuoka or Tokyo?
Fukuoka has an English proficiency rating of 2/5 (Basic) and Tokyo rates 3/5 (Moderate). Fukuoka uses Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) healthcare, while Tokyo uses Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.
