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Cost of Living in Tokyo, Japan
Japan's capital and economic hub. Highest concentration of international companies and English-friendly services. Very high rent, excellent transport.
A single person needs roughly 238,500 ¥/month to live in Tokyo: a one-bedroom rents for 170,000 ¥–320,000 ¥, plus about 68,500 ¥ for groceries, transport, and utilities.
Currency
JPY (¥)
English Level
Moderate
Healthcare
Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken)
Rental Prices in Tokyo
1-Bedroom Apartment
170,000 ¥ - 320,000 ¥
per month
2-Bedroom Apartment
240,000 ¥ - 480,000 ¥
per month
* Prices shown are second-hand rental market rates, typical for expats.8 neighborhoods tracked. Source: Official government housing statistics.
Monthly Living Costs
Groceries
28,000 ¥
Transport
11,000 ¥
Utilities
14,500 ¥
Dining Out
15,000 ¥
Utility costs based on Eurostat Energy Statistics.
Popular Neighborhoods
Shibuya
Dynamic commercial and entertainment hub. Excellent JR and Metro connections. Popular with young professionals and creatives.
0 min metro•230,000 ¥+/mo
Shinjuku
Major transport hub and commercial district. Diverse neighborhoods within, from business towers to entertainment.
0 min metro•200,000 ¥+/mo
Minato
Premium expat district including Roppongi and Azabu. Embassies, international schools, upscale dining.
5 min metro•270,000 ¥+/mo
Meguro
Trendy residential area. Nakameguro's cafes and boutiques. Popular with young professionals.
8 min metro•190,000 ¥+/mo
Setagaya
Large residential ward. Family-friendly with parks and quieter streets. Good value for space.
15 min metro•170,000 ¥+/mo
Chiyoda
Central business district. Imperial Palace, government offices. Prestigious but quiet after hours.
0 min metro•240,000 ¥+/mo
Work Visa
Highly Skilled Professional visa (HSP), Engineer/Specialist in Humanities visa. Employer sponsorship required.
Processing: 1-3 months
Relocation Costs
Key money (reikin) 1-2 months + deposit (shikikin) 1-2 months. Guarantor company required for most rentals.
Typical deposit: 4 months rent
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