Osaka vs Yokohama: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Osaka (Japan) and Yokohama (Japan). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Osaka is about 17% cheaper than Yokohama on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging ¥112,500 versus ¥135,000 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Osaka | Yokohama |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Japan | Japan |
| Currency | JPY (¥) | JPY (¥) |
| 1BR Rent Range | ¥85,000 - ¥140,000Cheaper | ¥105,000 - ¥165,000 |
| 2BR Rent Range | ¥120,000 - ¥200,000Cheaper | ¥155,000 - ¥250,000 |
| Groceries / mo | ¥35,000Cheaper | ¥38,000 |
| Transport Pass / mo | ¥9,000Cheaper | ¥9,500 |
| Dining Out / mo | ¥12,000Cheaper | ¥14,000 |
| English Level | 2/5 (Basic) | 3/5 (Moderate)Cheaper |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 6 | 6 |
| Healthcare System | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) |
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Overall, Osaka 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 Osaka
6 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
View Osaka detailsExplore Yokohama
6 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Osaka or Yokohama cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Osaka is about 17% cheaper than Yokohama — averaging ¥112,500 versus ¥135,000 per month. Overall, Osaka is generally cheaper to live in across rent, groceries, transport, and dining, though costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.
What is rent like in Osaka vs Yokohama?
In Osaka, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥85,000 to ¥140,000 per month across 6 neighborhoods. In Yokohama, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥105,000 to ¥165,000 per month across 6 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Osaka vs Yokohama?
A monthly public transport pass costs ¥9,000 in Osaka and ¥9,500 in Yokohama. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Osaka or Yokohama?
Osaka has an English proficiency rating of 2/5 (Basic) and Yokohama rates 3/5 (Moderate). Osaka 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.