How much does it cost to live in Japan each month?

Japan is known as a market with a large number of migrant workers, but at the same time, the cost of living in Japan is extremely expensive, especially in Tokyo.

The cost of living in Japan is not insignificant.

The demand for labor export to Japan is increasing due to the attractive income levels, higher than countries like South Korea and Taiwan. However, high income also means high living costs.

If you are planning to study or work in Japan, this article will detail the cost of living in Japan to give you a comprehensive overview of life there.

1. Cost of Living by Region in Japan

The cost of living in Japan varies considerably depending on the region. Large cities like Tokyo and Osaka generally have high incomes, and consequently, quite high living costs.

1.1 Cost of Living in Hokkaido

Hokkaido’s cold climate is one of Japan’s greatest specialties.

Hokkaido is an island in northern Japan, attracting many foreigners to live, work, and study there.

Housing Costs

Compared to other regions of Japan, housing costs in Hokkaido are not too expensive, typically ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 yen per month (2-3 million VND) for a spacious place.

Hokkaido’s industries are primarily agriculture, dairy farming, and construction. Trainees working in Japan are often provided dormitory accommodation by their employers, significantly reducing costs compared to studying in Japan or renting their own accommodation.

Food Costs

Food and living expenses here are relatively inexpensive, with reasonable prices. You can refer to the price list below.

• Electricity, water, and gas costs

1.2 Living expenses in the Kanto region

Kanto is the most expensive region to live in Japan.

Kanto includes the prefectures of Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa.

Housing Costs

Kanto, home to Tokyo, has the highest housing costs in Japan. Typically, the lowest housing costs range from 20,000-25,000 Yen per month (approximately 4-5 million VND).

For trainees, companies often provide accommodation assistance or free housing, so you can rest assured about this. However, international students should also consider this housing expense.

• Gas, Electricity, and Water Costs

These costs are relatively inexpensive in Japan.

• Prices of food vary depending on the city and region.

• Internet and phone billsInternet bills typically cost 2,000-3,000 Yen/month. You can save on this cost by sharing with others.

  Phone bills are quite a bit more expensive than in Vietnam, with some network providers charging up to 7,000-10,000 Yen/month.

  If you are interested in working in Japan, check out these 10 essential expenses when going to work in Japan at https://www.nhhk.com.vn/blogs/tin-uc/chi-phi-di-nhat

  2. What are the actual monthly living expenses in Japan?

  Living expenses in Japan are the monthly expenses you need to cover while living and working there.

  2.1 Rent

Housing costs in Japan vary widely.

Depending on the area and type of housing you choose, the cost of renting a place to live while working in Japan will differ, usually ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 yen per month. You can stay in a dormitory or rent a private apartment with friends to save on costs.

2.2 Utilities (Electricity and Water)

Electricity costs in Japan are paid based on consumption and depend on the electrical appliances in the house, so each house has a different fee.

International students living in dormitories pay their electricity and water bills to the school. If you rent an apartment, you pay the landlord.

Interns will have their electricity bills deducted from their salary.

If you live with several people, your electricity bill will be lower, around 2500-3000 yen, while if you live alone, it can be up to 8000 yen.

Water bills are approximately 1500-2500 yen per month, possibly slightly higher in the summer.

2.3 Food expenses

Food costs in Japan are quite expensive.

The price of food varies depending on the area you live in. Generally, if you buy ingredients and cook at home, the cost of food is around 20,000-30,000 yen per month per person; sharing meals will be more economical.

If you frequently eat out, the cost of food will definitely be around 30,000 yen per month. In addition, there are other expenses such as snacks, meals when going out with friends, etc.

2.4 Telephone and Internet Costs

Saving on phone and internet costs

If you only use your phone for calls and texts, your monthly phone bill will be around 1500-2500 yen/month. If you also use internet, the cost will be around 6000-7000 yen/month.

A popular, high-speed internet package in Japan costs around 3500 yen/month. Therefore, sharing an internet connection will keep this cost relatively low and can offset other expenses.

2.5 Other mandatory expenses

Besides living expenses, you also have to pay other mandatory costs:

Insurance fees

When working in Japan, employees are required to pay 2 to 3 insurance premiums per month, including national health insurance, welfare insurance, and pension insurance, ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 Yen per month. These are mandatory costs to ensure the rights of employees when seeking medical treatment in Japan.

Furthermore, you can rest assured that you will receive a refund of these insurance premiums upon returning home.

Taxes

When working in Japan with a high income, you will naturally have to pay personal income tax, approximately 1,000-2,000 Yen per month.

Other expenses

There are many other expenses such as medication, personal items, transportation, and socializing, totaling at least 3,000 Yen per month.

In summary, the cost of living in Japan for one month ranges from 51,000 to 81,000 Yen (10-16 million VND) and varies between regions, but is generally quite expensive.

3. Tips to Reduce Living Costs in Japan

Below are some tips to help you save on living expenses in Japan.

3.1 Reduce rent, save on electricity, water, and gas.

Consider and choose a suitable rental price.

To save on housing costs, the best option is to stay in the company’s dormitory. Many places offer free or low-cost accommodation for employees.

At the same time, use electricity, water, and gas sparingly and avoid waste. Remember to turn off unnecessary electrical appliances and check faucets to ensure there are no leaks.

3.2 Saving on food costs

Food costs need to be controlled to save money and ensure good health.

Instead of eating out to save on food costs, you can go to the market to buy ingredients and cook yourself. Cooking with friends is especially a great way to save money and ensure better hygiene.

Also, remember to buy only what you need, avoiding excess and waste. Don’t leave food in the refrigerator for too long as it will spoil or lose its nutritional value.

3.3 Reduce living expenses in Japan by choosing appropriate transportation.

Choosing the right mode of transportation can help reduce your expenses.

Whether you’re going to school or work, you should choose a suitable mode of transportation.

If you frequently travel long distances, you can choose the subway or bus, which are reasonably priced.

If you need to travel a relatively short distance, using a bicycle will save you money and protect the environment.

3.4 Avoid buying unnecessary items.

Actively control your spending and avoid buying unnecessary items.

To avoid buying many unnecessary items, you should list all the items you need on paper or note them on your phone before going to the store.

If you frequently shop at large supermarkets, you should register for a loyalty card to save a small amount on future purchases.

With a reasonable spending plan, after deducting all the previously paid expenses for going to Japan, you will have a considerable amount of money left over after your time in Japan.

Hopefully, the information provided by Nhat Huy Khang Japanese labor export center above will help you estimate the cost of living in Japan per month, and thus create a reasonable spending plan. This will ensure you still have a certain amount of surplus in your account when you return to Vietnam.