Can you afford to live in Japan? Data from Japan’s National Tax Agency and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare suggest that, in 2024, the average yearly salary in Japan is ¥4.58 million, approximately $29,589. However, the median is likely closer to ¥3.6 million, equivalent to $23,268. And, according to sourced data, the average monthly cost of living in Japan in 2024 for one person is roughly ¥166,773, or $1,071.24.
In this video, we simulate what it’s like to work and live in Japan on an average salary and add a few budgeting tips. From net income to rent and daily expenses, we discuss some of the major factors that affect earnings. If you’re interested in more videos like these, check out our other videos on our YouTube channel.
To learn more about grocery shopping in Japan, check out the following articles:
- What Are Tokyo’s Cheapest Supermarkets?
- Beginner’s Guide to Supermarket Shopping in Japan
- Finding Vegan and Halal Products at the Supermarket in Japan
- Eating Gluten-Free in Japan
Special thanks to Village House for letting us film this video in the model room.
Find affordable apartments throughout Japan through Village House Management Co. Ltd. on GaijinPot Apartments.
So, what do you think? Can you afford to live in Japan? Let us know in the comments below!
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That might be the average salary for Japanese but not for foreigners in Japan.
The average salary for a foreigner without any special skills (English teacher or factory worker) is between 2.8m and 3m a year. It hasn’t changed since the 90s.
It might be possible for a single person but if you have a family, it’s definitely not enough.
In the 90s, the idea was to come to Japan for a year and save a lot of money. That’s not possible anymore.
I don’t know where those values came from, but a cheap, old apato rent plus utilities and all will go ¥60,000 per month / 720,000 year, plus fire insurance which is cheap 6,000 a year. Add ¥80-120,000 tax /year. Then groceries you can expect another ¥60,000 month and a car will cost kinda ¥40,000 in gas, insurance, and depreciation (if you don’t drive much), that’s another 120,000 / year. So far 1 million yen without education, entertainment, clothing, and eventual health care. Retirement, contingency, appliances, services not included.