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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.

CategoryOsakaYokohama
CountryJapanJapan
CurrencyJPY (¥)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 Level2/5 (Basic)3/5 (Moderate)Cheaper
Neighborhoods Tracked66
Healthcare SystemPublic (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken)Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken)

Verdict

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 details

Explore Yokohama

6 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan

View Yokohama details

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Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Osaka and Yokohama.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Osaka or Yokohama cheaper to live in?

Based on our data, Osaka is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly 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.

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data