Cost of living in Japan
The cost of living in Japan runs at about 69% of US prices, and the long stay status for retirees asks for at least 30 million yen in savings.
Official prices, where your money goes further, and a budget built from your own rent and insurance. Checked against official sources on Oct 8, 2026.
- Price level
- ~69% of the US Household consumption, 2025. World Bank. Checked Oct 7, 2026.
- Tax on a foreign pension
- 5% to 45% Foreign pensions are taxed. National Tax Agency; PwC Tax Summaries. Checked Oct 8, 2026.
Build your Japan budget
No official source tracks what expats pay in rent, and rent is the biggest line in any budget. So this starts from what is measured and adds your own numbers.
Get rent from current listings in the area you like and a written quote for health insurance at your age.
Your monthly budget
$0
Cost of living questions
How much do I need a month to live in Japan?
It depends mostly on rent, which no official source tracks for expats. Add your rent and insurance quotes in the calculator above.
Is Japan cheaper than the US?
On average, yes: the World Bank puts household prices in Japan at about 69% of US levels (2025). Imported goods, cars and electronics can cost as much as at home or more.
Is Japan expensive to retire in?
Prices run at about 69% of US levels on the World Bank's comparison. The long stay status for retirees asks for at least 30 million yen in savings.
How much does it cost to retire in rural Japan?
Japan publishes no official monthly retiree budget by area. Countrywide, prices run at about 69% of US levels on the World Bank's comparison.
