How Much Money to Move to Japan? The Complete Breakdown 🇯🇵💰

18 February 2025

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Thinking about starting a new life in Japan? Whether you’re drawn to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the historic charm of Kyoto, or the peaceful countryside, making the move requires careful financial planning.

But how much money do you need to move to Japan comfortably? The short answer: at least ¥620,000–¥750,000 ($4,500–$5,500 USD) to cover apartment deposits, initial expenses, and daily costs before your first paycheck. However, your total budget depends on location, lifestyle, and whether your job offers any housing benefits.

In this guide, we’ll break down every cost—from rent and key money to food and transport—so you can prepare for your move without any financial surprises.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Japan? An Overview

Moving to Japan involves several upfront costs, which can add up quickly. Here’s a general breakdown of the minimum amount needed:

Expense

Estimated Cost (¥)

Estimated Cost (USD)

Apartment deposit + key money

¥250,000 – ¥300,000

$1,800 – $2,300

Rent (1st month)

¥50,000 – ¥90,000

$350 – $650

Real estate + guarantor fees

¥30,000 – ¥50,000

$220 – $370

Furniture & appliances

¥100,000 – ¥150,000

$750 – $1,100

Living expenses (2 months)

¥300,000

$2,200

Total (Minimum Budget)

¥620,000 – ¥750,000

$4,500 – $5,500

This does not include airfare, visa application fees, or unexpected expenses, so it’s best to save at least $6,000+ before moving.

Renting an Apartment in Japan: How Much to Budget 🏡

Unlike in some countries, renting in Japan comes with multiple upfront fees beyond just the first month’s rent.

Key Housing Costs:

• Security Deposit (敷金, shikikin) – Typically 1-2 months’ rent (refundable if no damages).
• Key Money (礼金, reikin) – A non-refundable payment to the landlord, often equal to 1-2 months’ rent.
• Guarantor Company Fee – Many landlords require a guarantor. If you don’t have a Japanese co-signer, you’ll need a guarantor company (~half a month’s rent).
• Real Estate Agent Fee – If using an agency, expect a one-time fee of 1 month’s rent.

Average Rent by City:

Location

1-Bedroom Apartment (¥/month)

USD Equivalent

Tokyo

¥90,000 – ¥120,000

$650 – $900

Osaka

¥60,000 – ¥80,000

$430 – $600

Kyoto

¥55,000 – ¥70,000

$400 – $500

Hiroshima

¥45,000 – ¥60,000

$330 – $450

Fukuoka

¥40,000 – ¥55,000

$290 – $400

How to Save on Rent:

• Choose “zero key money” apartments (探せばゼロ礼金物件が見つかる)
• Consider company housing if your employer offers it
• Live outside city centers (e.g., Chiba or Saitama instead of Tokyo)

Total upfront cost for housing: ¥250,000 – ¥300,000 ($1,800 – $2,300)

Setting Up Your New Home: Furniture & Appliances 🏠

Most apartments in Japan come unfurnished, so you’ll need to budget for basic furniture and appliances.

Essential Items

Estimated Cost (¥)

Estimated Cost (USD)

Futon mattress/bed

¥15,000 – ¥30,000

$110 – $220

Washing machine

¥25,000 – ¥50,000

$180 – $370

Refrigerator

¥20,000 – ¥40,000

$150 – $300

Microwave

¥8,000 – ¥15,000

$60 – $110

Basic table & chairs

¥10,000 – ¥20,000

$75 – $150

Total Cost

¥100,000 – ¥150,000

$750 – $1,100

How to Save Money on Furniture:

• Buy second-hand items from Mercari, Craigslist Japan, or Sayonara Sales
• Shop at Nitori (Japan’s version of IKEA)
• Look for free furniture on Facebook groups like “Tokyo Sayonara Sales”

Monthly Cost of Living in Japan 💳

Even after moving, you’ll need a monthly budget to cover your daily expenses.

Expense

Estimated Monthly Cost (¥)

USD Equivalent

Rent

¥50,000 – ¥90,000

$350 – $650

Food

¥40,000 – ¥60,000

$300 – $450

Utilities

¥10,000 – ¥15,000

$75 – $110

Transportation

¥5,000 – ¥15,000

$40 – $110

Health Insurance

¥10,000 – ¥20,000

$75 – $150

Total

¥115,000 – ¥200,000

$850 – $1,500

If you cook at home, live outside major cities, and use public transport, you can keep costs lower.

Extra Costs to Consider Before Moving ✈️

Visa & Work Permit

• Visa application fees (~¥3,000 – ¥10,000)
• Residency card registration (Free but required)

Flight to Japan

• One-way ticket: ¥50,000 – ¥150,000 ($350 – $1,100), depending on the season

Emergency Fund

• Having at least ¥200,000 ($1,500 USD) saved for unexpected expenses is highly recommended.

Final Budget: How Much Money Do You Need to Move to Japan? 📊

Based on minimum necessary expenses, here’s the total amount you should save before moving:

Category

Minimum Cost (¥)

Maximum Cost (¥)

Housing Costs

¥250,000

¥300,000

Furniture & Appliances

¥100,000

¥150,000

Initial Living Expenses (2 months)

¥300,000

¥350,000

Flights & Visa

¥50,000

¥150,000

Total

¥700,000 ($5,000)

¥950,000 ($7,000)

For a smooth transition, having ¥800,000 – ¥1,000,000 ($6,000 – $7,500 USD) saved is ideal.

Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Japan Affordable?

Moving to Japan isn’t cheap, but with smart budgeting and cost-cutting strategies, you can make it work.

Before you move:

✔️ Secure a job with relocation benefits
✔️ Find affordable housing (zero key money, shared apartments)
✔️ Save at least ¥800,000+ ($6,000 USD) to cover all initial costs

Want to learn Japanese before moving? Check out Wakoku’s free study guides to make your transition smoother! 🚀