Cheapest Cities to Live in Japan: Japan is famous for its advanced technology, high-quality education, and unique culture, and is an ideal destination for students from India for higher studies. However, the cost of living in Japan can be quite high, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, etc.
Choosing the right city can make a significant difference in your experience, both financially and culturally. Here we will go through some of the cheapest cities to live in Japan that offer a rich experience without stretching your budget.
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Top 10 Cheapest Cities to Live in Japan
Japan is known for its high living costs, especially in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. However, there are many affordable cities where international students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without spending too much. These cities offer lower rent, budget-friendly food, and efficient public transport, making them ideal for students.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live while studying in Japan, here are the top 10 cheapest cities to live in Japan that offer quality education and a great living experience.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka is one of the cheapest cities in Japan which offers a safe and friendly atmosphere for students. Despite being the largest city in Kyushu, Fukuoka offers a lower cost of living than Tokyo and Osaka. Rent prices, in particular, are significantly more affordable here. One of the most affordable places in Japan to live in is Fukuoka, where a bedroom apartment rents for 67,500 YEN a month and groceries cost up to 3,000 YEN.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than Tokyo and Osaka |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 67,500 YEN/month |
| Grocery Costs | Up to 3,000 YEN |
| Transport Cost | Up to 580 YEN per trip |
| Why Choose Fukuoka? | Safe, friendly, and affordable with an efficient transport system |
Also Read: Want to know more about Japan then refer to Exploring the Mind-blowing Examples of Culture Shock in Japan
Osaka
As the second-largest city in Japan, Osaka is one of te cheaper cities to live in Japan for international students. Known for its friendly locals, delicious street food, and lively nightlife, Osaka offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Tokyo. Rent prices in Osaka are generally lower ranging from 70.000 to 80,509 YEN per month in the City Centre for a one-bedroom apartment and 47,500 YEN outside the City Centre.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than Tokyo but slightly higher than other cities |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 70,000 – 80,509 YEN (City Centre), 47,500 YEN (Outside City Centre) |
| Food Expenses | 1,000 – 5,000 YEN per meal |
| Public Transport | Efficient and budget-friendly |
| Why Choose Osaka? | Vibrant nightlife, friendly locals, and amazing street food |
Sapporo, Hokkaido
Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, is famous for its stunning beautiful scenery and annual snow festival. Despite being a major city, Sapporo offers a lower cost of living compared to other metropolitan areas in Japan. Rent prices in Sapporo are relatively affordable ranging from 44,000 to 80,000 YEN for a bedroom apartment, and the city’s transportation system is efficient and cost-effective.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than Tokyo and Osaka |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 44,000 – 80,000 YEN/month |
| Transport System | Affordable and efficient |
| Entertainment & Dining | Many pubs, restaurants, and bookshops available |
| Why Choose Sapporo? | Beautiful scenery, annual snow festival, and a relaxed lifestyle |
Further Read: How to Greet in Japanese? Important Greeting Customs in Japan
Kochi
Located on Shikoku Island, Kochi is an amazing city with an affordable and safe atmosphere. Kochi is famous for its number of affordable clubs, pubs and restaurants. If you love nature then Kochi is the best place for you. The cost of living in Kochi is significantly lower than in larger cities which ranges, and the lively atmosphere creates a sense of community and belonging. Kochi is near many famous universities in Japan like Kochi University.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Among the lowest in Japan |
| Rent Prices | Affordable compared to big cities |
| Nearby Universities | Close to Kochi University |
| Lifestyle | Great for nature lovers, with many affordable restaurants and clubs |
| Why Choose Kochi? | Safe, affordable, and offers a strong sense of community |
Okinawa
Okinawa, located beside Kyushu, is another cheapest city to .live in Japan This place is known for its amazing beaches, green forest, and unique wildlife. The cost of living in Okinawa is generally lower compared to urban areas. The monthly rent is 50,000 to 70,000 YEN for a bedroom apartment and 90,000 to 126,666 YEN for a three-bedroom apartment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than major urban areas |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 50,000 – 70,000 YEN/month |
| Average Rent (3BHK) | 90,000 – 126,666 YEN/month |
| Attractions | Beaches, green forests, unique wildlife |
| Why Choose Okinawa? | Beautiful island life, affordable living, and rich culture |
Nagoya
Nagoya, located in central Japan, is a great choice for students looking for a low cost of living with big city benefits. It is known for its affordable rent, excellent transport system, and top universities like Nagoya University. While being a major city, Nagoya has lower living costs than Tokyo and Osaka. Students can also enjoy cheap and delicious food at many local restaurants.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than Tokyo and Osaka |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 50,000 – 70,000 YEN/month |
| Transport Cost | Reasonable and well-connected |
| Top Universities | Nagoya University, Nanzan University |
| Why Choose Nagoya? | Affordable city life, excellent universities, and a student-friendly environment |
Kagoshima
Kagoshima, located in southern Japan, is an ideal city for students who are looking for the cheapest city to live in Japan. It offers a low cost of living, beautiful natural scenery, and a relaxed lifestyle. Students can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beaches, and hot springs. The public transport system is also affordable and efficient, making it easy to explore the city on a student budget.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than most major Japanese cities |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 40,000 – 65,000 YEN/month |
| Public Transport | Affordable and well-maintained |
| Lifestyle | Relaxed, surrounded by nature, great for outdoor activities |
| Why Choose Kagoshima? | Low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful student environment |
Okayama
Okayama is a hidden gem for students looking for the cheapest cities to live in Japan. It is known for cheap rent, low food costs, and a friendly local culture. The city is also home to Okayama University, a well-ranked institution for international students. Public transport is affordable and well-connected, and students can find budget-friendly restaurants and markets.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Lower than Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 45,000 – 68,000 YEN/month |
| Transport Cost | Budget-friendly and efficient |
| Top Universities | Okayama University |
| Why Choose Okayama? | Affordable living, great universities, and a peaceful student atmosphere |
Sendai
Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, offers an affordable cost of living with the benefits of a developed city. Tohoku University, one of Japan’s top universities, is located here, attracting many international students. The city is known for cheap student accommodation, low transportation costs, and delicious yet inexpensive food. It also has a beautiful environment with green spaces and cultural sites.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Much lower than Tokyo and Osaka |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 50,000 – 75,000 YEN/month |
| Transport System | Cheap and convenient |
| Top Universities | Tohoku University, Miyagi University |
| Why Choose Sendai? | Budget-friendly, great universities, and a student-friendly city |
Nagasaki
Nagasaki is another affordable student-friendly city in Japan. It has low rent prices, inexpensive public transport, and a peaceful environment. The city is also home to Nagasaki University, which welcomes many international students. Food and groceries are also more affordable compared to big cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living | Cheaper than Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto |
| Average Rent (1BHK) | 42,000 – 65,000 YEN/month |
| Transport Cost | Affordable and well-connected |
| Top Universities | Nagasaki University |
| Why Choose Nagasaki? | Low living costs, peaceful environment, and good educational opportunities |
FAQs on Cheapest Cities to Live in Japan
Some of the cheapest cities to live in Japan are Fukuoka, Osaka, Sapporo (Hokkaido), Kochi, and Okinawa.
Fukuoka is considered one of the cheapest cities to stay in Japan, offering a safe and friendly atmosphere.
The rent prices vary across cities, but generally, you can find affordable options. For example, in Fukuoka, a one-bedroom apartment can rent for 67,500 YEN per month, while in Sapporo, it ranges from 44,000 to 80,000 YEN.
Yes, Osaka is generally cheaper than Tokyo in terms of the cost of living, including rent prices and dining options.
The cost of living in Japan is quite inexpensive when compared to other nations.
Yes! Many students work part-time in cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, and teaching English. The minimum wage varies by city, but students can earn around YEN 900 – YEN 1,200 per hour (USD 6 – USD 9).
Fukuoka is one of the best and cheapest cities for students. It has low rent, many universities, a vibrant student community, and affordable food options. Other good choices include Kyoto and Sendai.
Yes! Living in Japan on a budget is possible, especially in the cheapest cities like Sendai and Fukuoka. Renting a shared apartment, using public transport, and eating at budget-friendly places can help save costs.
Look for university dorms, shared apartments (guesthouses), or budget apartments. Websites like GaijinPot, Craigslist Japan, and local Facebook groups can help you find affordable student housing.
Yes! Kyoto is much cheaper than Tokyo, with lower rent, affordable transport, and cheaper food options. A student can live comfortably in Kyoto for YEN 100,000 – YEN 150,000 per month (USD 700 – USD 1,100).
Thank you for reading our blog. This blog is all about the cheapest cities to live in Japan. Hope you liked it. Reach out to Fly Homes now at 1800572118 to secure the finest accommodation abroad.
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