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Sagamihara, Japan

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,850
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
82.4
Healthcare
392 facilities

With a population of 483,000, Sagamihara is a sprawling Tokyo suburb that has steadily grown over the decades, thanks in part to its transportation links. However, the city's role as a commuter hub means over a quarter of residents travel to Tokyo for work, suggesting a dormitory-town vibe rather than a vibrant local economy. And while the climate is mild, the heavy annual rainfall of 1,906mm is a persistent headache.

Sagamihara is a pragmatic choice for those seeking an affordable alternative to the Tokyo metro area, with good transit connections. But the city's administrative complexity - it was merged from multiple municipalities over time - and lack of distinct identity make it better suited for practical living than cultural enrichment.

Can I afford Sagamihara?

$

Sagamihara

You could save

1,150/mo

Savings Rate38%

Monthly Costs

Rent $750
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,100

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
38/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
82
Safety
392
Healthcare
100
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$8
Meal (Mid-range) $52
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $115
Mobile Plan (mo) $23
Gym (mo) *$38
Cinema Ticket $11

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $600
1BR Outside (mo) *$291
3BR Center (mo) $1,200
3BR Outside (mo) *$583

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Very Few
Top Neighborhoods
Minami-ku, Hashimoto
Best For
commuters, families

Expat Life Notes

Sagamihara functions largely as a bedroom community for Tokyo and Yokohama, offering a quiet life with high safety.

Pros

  • ✓ Safe and quiet
  • ✓ Proximity to Tokyo
  • ✓ Lower rent prices

Cons

  • ✗ Limited social life for foreigners
  • ✗ Commute-heavy lifestyle
  • ✗ Low English prevalence

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1801 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Jun, Oct

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Sagamihara

Click any question to expand the answer.

Sagamihara has a population of approximately 483,000 people.

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

The nearest airport to Sagamihara is HND, approximately 38km away.

Sagamihara is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 82.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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