What is the Cost of Living in Tokyo in 2025?

Tokyo is one of the leading industrial centres in the world. A number of companies have their corporate headquarters located in Tokyo. Furthermore, the city is well-known for its job opportunities, tradition and culture that welcomes students and expats from all over the world for education and jobs.

In this article, we are going to see the cost of living in Tokyo for a month.

Team Digit

Average Cost of Living in Tokyo
Factors Determining the Cost of Living
Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living
Important Things to Know
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Average Cost of Living in Tokyo?

The average cost of living in Tokyo is quite expensive compared to other top cities globally. The table below shows the approximate monthly cost of living in Tokyo for a family of four, bachelor and students:

Area of Expense	Cost
Rent	¥150,000 to ¥250,000 per month.
Entertainment	¥1,500 to ¥4,500
Groceries	¥30,000 to ¥50,000
Transport	¥10,000 to ¥15,000
Utilities	¥10,000 to ¥20,000
Schooling of children	¥1,000,000 to ¥3,000,000

Cost of Living in Tokyo for Bachelors

The typical expenses for a bachelor's degree in Tokyo City include housing, utilities, food, leisure activities, transportation, and more. The table below highlights some of the main costs. The table below reflects some of the key expenditures:

Area of Expense	Price Range
Accommodation	¥120,000
Groceries	¥30,000
Transport	¥15,000
Utilities	¥18,000
Entertainment and Shopping	¥25,000
Housemaid	¥12,000
Wi-Fi	¥6,000
Bus Pass/Metro Pass	Tokyo Metro Pass (1-day Pass): ¥600, Toei Subway Pass (1-day Pass): ¥700
Miscellaneous	¥15,000

Cost of Living in Tokyo for Students

The following table signifies some of the key outlays associated with the cost of living in Tokyo for students:

Area of Expense	Price Range
Rent (shared apartment)	¥60,000 - ¥80,000 per month
Rent (single room PG)	¥80,000 - ¥120,000 per month
Food (monthly)	¥30,000 - ¥40,000
Transportation (monthly)	¥10,000 - ¥15,000
Utilities (monthly)	¥10,000 - ¥15,000
Wi-Fi	¥5,000 - ¥7,000
Miscellaneous	¥10,000 - ¥15,000
Bus Pass/Metro Pass	¥10,000 - ¥12,000 per month

Cost of Living in Tokyo for a Family

Tokyo, known for its luxury and high cost of living, offers a variety of accommodation options such as apartments, cottages, villas, and more. The table provided below outlines some of the main expenses associated with living in this vibrant city

Area of Expense	Price Range
Accommodation	¥200,000 - ¥300,000 per month
Groceries & Food	¥80,000 - ¥100,000 per month
Transport	¥30,000 - ¥40,000 per month
Utilities	¥20,000 - ¥30,000 per month
Entertainment & Shopping	¥50,000 - ¥80,000 per month
Education & Daycare	¥50,000 - ¥150,000 per child per month
Housemaid	¥15,000 - ¥20,000 per month (for part-time cleaning services)
Wi-Fi	¥5,000 - ¥7,000 per month
Miscellaneous	¥20,000 - ¥30,000 per month

Cost of Living in Tokyo for Couples

The expenses associated with living in Tokyo for couples include costs for housing, utilities, food, transportation, entertainment, and more. Refer to the table provided for a comprehensive overview:

Area of Expense	Price Range
1 BHK apartment for rent	¥150,000 - ¥200,000 per month
2 BHK apartments for rent	¥250,000 - ¥300,000 per month
Electricity bill	¥8,000 - ¥12,000 per month
Bus pass	¥10,000 - ¥12,000 per month per person
Wi-Fi	¥5,000 - ¥7,000 per month
Groceries	¥50,000 - ¥60,000 per month
Meal for two	¥4,000 - ¥8,000 per meal
Housemaid	¥15,000 - ¥20,000 per month (for part-time cleaning services)
Miscellaneous	¥20,000 - ¥30,000 per month

Factors That Determine the Cost of Living in Tokyo

Here are the common factors that impact the cost of living in Tokyo, Japan:

1. Housing

Most expats prefer living in serviced or furnished accommodations that are larger and much more expensive than other living spaces in the city. The average rent of these houses varies depending on the housing type, size, age of the property and the amenities available.

In general, the monthly rent of a house is highest in the city centre and comparatively lower in the surrounding suburbs and outskirts of Tokyo.

Classification of Accommodation	Approximate Rent Per Month
900 sq. ft. furnished accommodation (in the city centre)	¥ 4,50,000
900 sq. ft. furnished accommodation (outside the city centre)	¥ 2,00,000
480 sq. ft. furnished studio accommodation (in the city centre)	¥ 169,536
480 sq. ft. furnished studio accommodation (outside the city centre)	¥ 1,39,438
Private bedroom in a guest house	¥ 40,000
Shared room in a dormitory	¥ 36,000

The table below shows the approximate price of buying a property in Tokyo:

Location of the Property	Cost Per Square Metre
Tokyo’s 23 wards	¥ 11,80,000
Western suburbs	¥ 7,90,000
Chiba prefecture	¥ 6,00,000
Kanagawa prefecture	¥ 7,60,000
Saitama prefecture	¥ 6,80,000

2. Groceries

Grocery is the only expense area where an individual can easily save money. Just like any other place in the world, one can save a lot by purchasing seasonal vegetables and fruits and cooking with local ingredients. The table below shows the approximate cost of some basic grocery items in Tokyo:

Grocery Items	Approximate Cost
Milk (regular) (1 litre)	¥ 200
Fresh Bread (500g)	¥ 250
Rice (white) (1kg)	¥ 394.4
Eggs (regular) (1 dozen)	¥ 230
Local Cheese (1kg)	¥ 1,850
Chicken 1 kg (boneless)	¥ 1,000
Apples (1kg)	¥ 800
Banana (1kg)	¥ 500
Oranges (1kg)	¥ 700
Tomato (1kg)	¥ 1,017.47 and ¥ 1,794.03
Potato (1kg)	¥ 165.94 and ¥ 597.37
Onion (1kg)	¥ 350
Lettuce (1 head)	¥ 200

3. Transportation

Tokyo is known for having one of the most efficient transportation systems in the world. Its convenience, speed, and timeliness are praised far and wide. The city is interconnected by trains, buses, and subways. Furthermore, students in Tokyo enjoy the benefits of a monthly pass, using which they can make unlimited stops between their campus and home.

Fuel Cost/Transportation Service	Approximate Cost
One-way ticket (public transport)	¥ 200
Monthly pass (public transport)	¥ 11,250
Price of diesel (as of July 2024)	¥ 154.40 per litre
Price of gasoline (as of July 2024)	¥ 175.25 per litre
Taxi (1 km)	¥ 440
Rental bikes and scooters	¥ 100 - ¥ 300 per hour
Cabs (minimum fare)	¥ 730

4. Basic Utilities

The money spent on basic utilities like electricity, gas connection, water supply, internet and mobile prepaid package adds up a significant amount to the monthly expenses in Tokyo.

Monthly Utilities	Approximate Cost
Basic (heating, cooling, electricity, water) for a house	¥ 25,000
Prepaid mobile bill	¥ 50
Internet for cable, ADSL, unlimited data	¥ 4,500

5. Entertainment

Tokyo has a number of movie theatres, nightlife hotspots, and game centres where you can relax and enjoy yourself. However, these areas demand a lot of money. Therefore, be careful to manage your expenses wisely.

Area of Expense	Approximate Cost
1-month gym membership	¥ 9,700
1-morning cappuccino	¥ 511.95
Tennis court rent for 1 hour	¥ 4,400
Cinema (1 seat)	¥ 2,000
A meal in an affordable restaurant (1 person)	¥ 1,000
Three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant	¥ 6,000
McMeal at McDonald's	¥ 700

6. Childcare and Schooling

While evaluating the cost of living in Tokyo, a person should consider the monthly tuition fees of their kids. Tokyo has a number of reputed schools and colleges that impart high-end education and training to children.

School and Childcare	Approximate Cost
Preschool or kindergarten, full-day, private, monthly for 1 Child	¥ 75,000
International primary school, yearly for 1 child	¥ 25,00,000

The table below illustrates the best international schools in Tokyo –

School	Curriculum
New International School of Japan	International, Japanese
United School of Tokyo	American, International
Tokyo YMCA International School	American, International
Axis International School	American
Horizon Japan International School	International Baccalaureate, American
Shinagawa International School	International Baccalaureate
Clarence International School	British
Laurus International School of Science	British
Kohana International School	British
The French-Japanese International School of Tokyo	French

Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living in Tokyo

Here are the best ways to reduce the cost of living while residing in Tokyo, Japan:

Housing: There are a number of housing facilities available in Tokyo, from modern apartments to traditional tatami-mat rooms. To cut costs, you should live far from the city centres because property prices dramatically reduce as you go towards the city's peripheries.
Transportation: Tokyo has a highly advanced public transportation system featuring efficient train and bus systems. If you have frequently travelled in the city, it is recommended to have a commuter pass, which would save a good amount of money. Owned bikes are also used as a common and economical mode of city travel.
Grocery Shopping: Eateries are abundant in Tokyo, but it is not always cost-effective to eat out. For your grocery shopping, find bargain stores, such as Gyomu Super or OK Store. If you shop during the closing hours, you might find good deals on fresh foodstuffs and cooked meals.
Dining on a Budget: One can get a long line of dining options in Tokyo, from street food to sophisticated restaurants. Travellers who desire to do this at a meagre amount should do it like a local and eat at the street food markets Yokocho and local eateries Izakaya, which offer good, inexpensive set menus, mostly better prices than the dinner set.
Healthcare Considerations: Healthcare in Japan is top-notch, although it can be expensive without insurance. It is recommended that you register for the national health insurance program (kokumin kenko hoken) or secure private health insurance that will cover medical expenses.
Fun on a Budget: Tokyo is full of cultural and entertainment opportunities, many of which are free and many others that are relatively inexpensive. Museums often have discount entry days, and public parks are green spaces for relaxing. Community events and festivals abound, promising a whole new life to Japanese culture.
Language and Integration: Knowing basic Japanese will make even everyday life simple and help you navigate service provision. Engaging in local community NGOs or language exchange meetings creates a support system and cultivates friendships, making your Tokyo experience richer and possibly more affordable.

Important Things to Know Before Moving to Tokyo

Discussed below are the crucial things you need to remember while moving to Tokyo:

Cultural Differences: Tokyo blends modernity with traditional Japanese tradition. Understanding cultural norms, which include etiquette in public spaces and social hierarchies, can ease your integration into day-to-day existence.
Legal and Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the ideal visa for your stay in Japan. Long-term visas frequently require sponsorship from a local business enterprise or educational institution, while quick-term visas have different necessities.
Cost of Living: Tokyo consistently ranks among the most luxurious cities globally. Researching price-of-residing indexes lets you budget efficiently and negotiate salaries if moving for paintings.
Climate: Tokyo studies four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers and cold winters. Be prepared for typhoons in past due summer and early autumn, which may affect tour and day-by-day workouts.
Transportation Infrastructure: Tokyo's train and subway community is giant but can be overwhelming for newbies. Familiarise yourself with maps, ticketing systems, and rush hour etiquette to navigate efficaciously.
Accommodation Challenges: Finding suitable lodging may be competitive and calls for navigating condo corporations and guarantors. Consider temporary housing whilst attempting to find a long-term rental.
Education and Healthcare: Tokyo gives global colleges and universities; however, enrolment may be aggressive. Research healthcare options and ensure you have access to clinical offerings that meet your desires.
Work Culture: The Japanese work culture emphasises punctuality, teamwork, and respect for hierarchy. Understanding those norms can enhance your professional relationships and career potential in Tokyo.

Therefore, Tokyo is one of the costliest cities in the world. However, an individual's lifestyle and standard of living play the most crucial role in deciding the cost of living in Tokyo. Managing your expenses wisely can help you save more money at the end of the month or year.

Frequently Asked Questions

All

Is residing in Tokyo costly?

Tokyo's standard of living is relatively high. Furthermore, the city ranks fourth among the most expensive in the world.

What annual salary does a person need to live in Tokyo?

To lead a comfortable life in Tokyo, an individual must earn ¥ 4 - ¥ 5 million annually.

How expensive is Tokyo compared to other major cities?

According to the 2021 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Tokyo is the fourth most expensive city for expatriates. Groceries are 41.51% more expensive in Tokyo than in London, but Tokyo is relatively cheap overall, as it is believed to be the leading city in Tokyo and California.

How much does it cost to use gym facilities or participate in fitness classes in Tokyo?

The cost of membership in gyms in Tokyo may vary. General or base memberships may start from around ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 per month. However, specialised fitness classes would need to be paid for separately.

What is the cost of living for students or young adults in Tokyo?

For students or young adults who share accommodations and live on a tight budget, total expenses would rise to about ¥100,000 to ¥150,000 per month, inclusive of rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation.

How much does a Tokyo monthly phone plan cost?

The cost of monthly phone plans in Tokyo will depend on the amount of data available and free calls/texts. The base plan can usually start between ¥5,000 and ¥7,000 per month.

Are there any additional taxes or fees residents need to pay in Tokyo?

Residents of Tokyo may need to pay residential tax, which is based on income and property ownership. The amount varies depending on individual circumstances.

How much does having a car cost in Tokyo?

So, the cost would involve parking, compulsory insurance, and road tax. Parking alone could be ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 per month or more, depending on the district.

Is Tokyo more expensive than other cities in Japan?

Yes, frankly speaking, Tokyo is more expensive than other Japanese towns. The living costs, particularly on rent, dining, and entertainment, are higher than in other Japanese cities.

Is Tokyo a safe place?

Yeah, Tokyo is basically one of the safest cities having low crime rates. The local culture is generally conducive to respect and orderliness, hence a safe environment for both residents and visitors.

Why is Tokyo the best place to live?

Tokyo has a unique mix of cultural richness, cutting-edge infrastructure, quality healthcare and education systems, smooth transportation by public conveyance, and a bright cuisine and entertainment scene that makes it an exquisite place to live for both locals and expatriates seeking a high-quality life.

What is the average rent in Tokyo?

Noticeably, it all depends on the region and size. From ¥100,000 a month for a small apartment in central areas like Shibuya or Shinjuku.

Are healthcare services reasonable in Tokyo?

Japan has a health care system that covers everyone, but not for free. Although out-of-pocket expenses differ, basic consultations are suitably priced.

Do you get cheap accommodation in Tokyo?

Yes, you do, although the city's central parts are relatively costlier, and the outlying and suburban districts provide cheaper accommodation.

What are the average costs of maintaining a car in Tokyo?

The average cost of keeping a car in Tokyo is very high. This is because of the high costs associated with parking, insurance, and taxes. It ranges between ¥30,000 and ¥60,000 or even higher.

How relatively expensive is housing in Tokyo when compared to other major cities of the world?

Even though the costs of housing are very not really low when compared with that of another big city, in a certain area within Tokyo, there is a huge range of vast differences.

Can one live affordably in Tokyo?

Yes, one can live reasonably in Tokyo through some sensible monetary management and some cheaper housing options and eating habits.

How can someone save money living in Tokyo?

Some effective ways through which somebody can save his or her money while in Tokyo include using public transport, preparing his or her meals at home, and enjoying free or low-cost cultural activities.

Does it cost to take children to a Daycare in Tokyo?

Childcare is very expensive in Tokyo with some of those fee schedules ranging from ¥50,000 to ¥150,000 per month.

Does it cost much to study Japanese in Tokyo?

In Tokyo, language schools cost between ¥50,000 and ¥100,000 a month excluding the price of textbooks and other learning materials.

What should I prepare for before travelling to Tokyo for a short project?

Tokyo is efficient and exciting, but even short visits can be costly, especially if you need medical attention or experience travel delays. While Japan has top-notch healthcare, it's not always accessible to short-term visitors without coverage. Overseas trip insurance gives you that safety net, offering reimbursement for emergencies so you can navigate the city worry-free.