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Ibaraki, Japan

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,600
Retiree Score
50.0
Safety Index
82.1
Healthcare
6 facilities

With a population of over 2.9 million, Ibaraki is an industrial powerhouse - but don't expect Tokyo's glitz. The prefecture's vast flat terrain makes it a magnet for factories and research institutes, though the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. While Ibaraki boasts natural wonders like the Tsukuba Mountains and Lake Kasumigaura, the climate can be harsh, with long, humid summers. This pragmatic, workmanlike region is best suited for those seeking affordable living and job opportunities outside the Tokyo bubble.

Can I afford Ibaraki?

$

Ibaraki

You could save

1,400/mo

Savings Rate47%

Monthly Costs

Rent $650
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$950

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
47/100
Retiree Score
(i)
50/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
82
Safety
6
Healthcare
100
Walkability
5
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $3
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$8
Meal (Mid-range) $66
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $133
Mobile Plan (mo) $19
Gym (mo) *$31
Cinema Ticket $9

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $650
1BR Outside (mo) *$364
3BR Center (mo) $1,250
3BR Outside (mo) *$729

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
City Center, near Ibaraki Station
Best For
families, commuters

Expat Life Notes

A residential city between Osaka and Kyoto. It is popular with families for its balance of quiet and accessibility.

Pros

  • ✓ Perfect location between two major cities
  • ✓ Safe and family-friendly
  • ✓ Excellent public transport

Cons

  • ✗ Quiet nightlife
  • ✗ Limited English in local shops
  • ✗ High cost of living for Japan

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
0°C°C - 30°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1417 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ibaraki

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ibaraki has a population of approximately 2,917,857 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,625 per month in Ibaraki, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $650/month.

The nearest airport to Ibaraki is IBR, approximately 13km away.

Ibaraki is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 82.1. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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