Kobe vs Yokohama: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Kobe (Japan) and Yokohama (Japan). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Yokohama is about 13% cheaper than Kobe on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging ¥135,000 versus ¥155,000 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Kobe | Yokohama |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Japan | Japan |
| Currency | JPY (¥) | JPY (¥) |
| 1BR Rent Range | ¥100,000 - ¥210,000 | ¥105,000 - ¥165,000Cheaper |
| 2BR Rent Range | ¥142,000 - ¥296,000 | ¥155,000 - ¥250,000Cheaper |
| Groceries / mo | ¥22,400Cheaper | ¥38,000 |
| Transport Pass / mo | ¥8,500Cheaper | ¥9,500 |
| Dining Out / mo | ¥12,000Cheaper | ¥14,000 |
| English Level | 3/5 (Moderate) | 3/5 (Moderate) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 5 | 6 |
| Healthcare System | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) |
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Overall, Kobe 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 Kobe
5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
View Kobe detailsExplore Yokohama
6 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kobe or Yokohama cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Yokohama is about 13% cheaper than Kobe — averaging ¥135,000 versus ¥155,000 per month. Overall, Kobe is generally cheaper to live in across rent, groceries, transport, and dining, though costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.
What is rent like in Kobe vs Yokohama?
In Kobe, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥100,000 to ¥210,000 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In Yokohama, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥105,000 to ¥165,000 per month across 6 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Kobe vs Yokohama?
A monthly public transport pass costs ¥8,500 in Kobe and ¥9,500 in Yokohama. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Kobe or Yokohama?
Kobe has an English proficiency rating of 3/5 (Moderate) and Yokohama rates 3/5 (Moderate). Kobe uses Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) healthcare, while Yokohama uses Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.
