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Tokyo, Japan
Capital City

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,800
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
82.5
Healthcare
1749 facilities

Prepare for a grueling commute and a heavy tax burden if you're considering a move to Tokyo. With a population of over 14 million in the city proper, this megacity is the most populous urban area in the world. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the city's governing structure is more akin to a prefecture than a traditional municipality. And the climate is marked by hot, humid summers and occasional cold snaps in winter. But Tokyo remains a global financial and cultural powerhouse, home to 26 of the world's 500 largest companies. This frenetic, densely-packed city is best suited for career-driven urbanites who can navigate its challenges.

Can I afford Tokyo?

$

Tokyo

You could save

200/mo

Savings Rate7%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,400
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,400

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
7/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
83
Safety
1749
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
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) $54
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $157
Mobile Plan (mo) $23
Gym (mo) *$68
Cinema Ticket $13

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,400
1BR Outside (mo) *$364
3BR Center (mo) $2,800
3BR Outside (mo) *$729

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Minato, Shibuya, Setagaya, Ebisu
Best For
professionals, foodies

Expat Life Notes

A massive, ultra-safe metropolis. Tokyo offers a unique blend of hyper-modernity and deep tradition, though integration can be slow.

Pros

  • ✓ Unparalleled safety and cleanliness
  • ✓ Excellent public transport
  • ✓ Incredible food quality

Cons

  • ✗ Work culture can be intense
  • ✗ High language barrier for depth
  • ✗ Small living spaces

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
2°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1369 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Tokyo

Click any question to expand the answer.

Tokyo has a population of approximately 14,264,798 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,500 per month in Tokyo, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1400/month.

The nearest airport to Tokyo is HND, approximately 18km away.

Tokyo 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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