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Nara, Japan
Capital City

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,550
Retiree Score
86.0
Safety Index
88.2
Healthcare
216 facilities

With a population of just 366,591, Nara is a quaint relic of old Japan - but don't let the historic charm fool you. The city's bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the heavy rainfall and hot summers can be a challenge. However, Nara's plentiful Buddhist temples, deer-filled parks, and reputation as a top tourist draw make it an appealing option for those seeking a slower-paced, tradition-soaked lifestyle.

Can I afford Nara?

$

Nara

You could save

1,450/mo

Savings Rate48%

Monthly Costs

Rent $550
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,000

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
48/100
Retiree Score
(i)
86/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
53/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
88
Safety
216
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
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) *$6
Meal (Mid-range) $53
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $156
Mobile Plan (mo) $23
Gym (mo) *$35
Cinema Ticket $11

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $440
1BR Outside (mo) *$291
3BR Center (mo) $880
3BR Outside (mo) *$583

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Naramachi
Best For
retirees, historians

Expat Life Notes

Nara is a cultural jewel with many tourists but a very small foreign residential community.

Pros

  • ✓ Stunning historic environment
  • ✓ Peaceful lifestyle
  • ✓ Close to Osaka/Kyoto

Cons

  • ✗ Quiet social scene
  • ✗ Limited non-tourist jobs
  • ✗ Almost no English infrastructure

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1670 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Nara

Click any question to expand the answer.

Nara has a population of approximately 366,591 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,375 per month in Nara, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $550/month.

The nearest airport to Nara is ITM, approximately 35km away.

Nara is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 88.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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