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Shizuoka, Japan

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,630
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
82.5
Healthcare
117 facilities

With a population of 3.6 million, Shizuoka is a sprawling Pacific coast metropolis with a lot to offer, but some harsh realities. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the prefecture's temperate climate and scenic Mount Fuji views are hard to beat. Shizuoka also has a storied history as the home of the first Tokugawa shogun, and today it's a manufacturing powerhouse, producing a whopping 28% of Japan's motorcycle exports. However, the region's earthquake risk is no joke - a major quake hits every 100-150 years on average. So if you can tolerate the red tape and occasional tremors, Shizuoka might be the perfect blend of natural beauty and industrial might for the right expat.

Can I afford Shizuoka?

$

Shizuoka

You could save

1,370/mo

Savings Rate46%

Monthly Costs

Rent $650
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$980

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
46/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
83
Safety
117
Healthcare
100
Walkability
5
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) $61
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $130
Mobile Plan (mo) $15
Gym (mo) *$48
Cinema Ticket $12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $650
1BR Outside (mo) *$364
3BR Center (mo) $1,200
3BR Outside (mo) *$729

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Shizuoka City Center
Best For
nature lovers, retirees

Expat Life Notes

Shizuoka offers a peaceful life with stunning views of Mt. Fuji but lacks a larger foreign support network.

Pros

  • ✓ Stunning Fuji views
  • ✓ Clean air and nature
  • ✓ Safe and family-friendly

Cons

  • ✗ Severe language barrier
  • ✗ Quiet nightlife
  • ✗ Limited high-paying jobs

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
2°C°C - 30°C°C
Annual Rainfall
2380 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Shizuoka

Click any question to expand the answer.

Shizuoka has a population of approximately 3,609,465 people.

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

The nearest airport to Shizuoka is FSZ, approximately 18km away.

Shizuoka is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 82.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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