Hamamatsu, Japan

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,750
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
84.5
Healthcare
135 facilities

The population of Hamamatsu stands at 800,866, making it the largest city in Shizuoka Prefecture - but that number alone doesn't tell the whole story. This industrial hub is a haven for musical instrument manufacturers and motorcycle companies, but beneath the surface, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for foreigners. And while the city's southern regions enjoy a relatively mild climate, the northern areas face harsh winters with heavy snowfall. Overall, Hamamatsu caters best to those drawn to its manufacturing roots and traditional Japanese culture, rather than those seeking an easy expat lifestyle.

Can I afford Hamamatsu?

$

Hamamatsu

You could save

1,250/mo

Savings Rate42%

Monthly Costs

Rent $750
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,000

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
42/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
85
Safety
135
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$3
Meal (Mid-range) $16
Cappuccino *$3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $225
Mobile Plan (mo) *$20
Gym (mo) *$75
Cinema Ticket $13

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $750
1BR Outside (mo) *$364
3BR Center (mo) $1,500
3BR Outside (mo) *$729

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Naka-ku, Higashi-ku
Best For
industrial workers

Expat Life Notes

Hamamatsu has a unique expat scene due to its high population of Brazilian and Southeast Asian industrial workers.

Pros

  • Industrial jobs
  • Diverse food scene
  • Low cost of living

Cons

  • Low English proficiency
  • Lacks traditional expat amenities
  • Humid climate

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
3°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
2415 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Hamamatsu

Click any question to expand the answer.

Hamamatsu has a population of approximately 800,866 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,875 per month in Hamamatsu, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $750/month.

The nearest airport to Hamamatsu is FSZ, approximately 43km away.

Hamamatsu is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 84.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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