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 8 Cheapest Cities to Live in Japan
Japan often has a reputation for being expensive, particularly in major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto. However, there are several budget-friendly cities where international students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a much lower cost. These locations provide affordable housing, reasonably priced food options, and reliable public transportation—making them excellent choices for students looking to manage their expenses.
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
- Osaka
- Sapporo, Hokkaido
- Kochi
- Okinawa
- Nagoya
- Kagoshima
- Sendai
Fukuoka
Fukuoka stands out as one of the most affordable cities in Japan, providing a safe and welcoming environment for students. As the largest city in Kyushu, it boasts a significantly lower cost of living compared to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Rent is especially budget-friendly, with one-bedroom apartments available for around 67,500 YEN per month. Additionally, grocery expenses remain manageable, averaging up to 3,000 YEN, making Fukuoka an excellent choice for cost-conscious residents.
| 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 of Hokkaido, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and its famous annual snow festival. Although it’s a major urban center, Sapporo maintains a lower cost of living than many other large cities in Japan. Rental costs are relatively affordable, with one-bedroom apartments typically ranging from 44,000 to 80,000 YEN. Additionally, the city offers a reliable and budget-friendly public transportation system, making it an attractive option for residents seeking both convenience and value.
| 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, situated in southern Japan, is a great choice for students seeking one of the most affordable places to live in the country. The city combines a low cost of living with stunning natural landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere. Students can take advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking, relaxing on beaches, and visiting hot springs. Additionally, Kagoshima’s public transportation is both budget-friendly and efficient, making it easy to get around without overspending.
| 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 budget-friendly city in Japan that caters well to students. It offers low rental costs, affordable public transportation, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The city is home to Nagasaki University, which attracts a diverse international student community. Additionally, food and grocery expenses are considerably lower than in larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka, making it an ideal place for students to live comfortably on a budget.
| 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).
Yes, Japan as a whole is considered very safe, and its smaller, more affordable cities often have even lower crime rates and tight-knit communities.
Fukuoka is a top choice, offering a balanced lifestyle with urban amenities, coastal beauty, and a relatively low cost of living.
Yes, cities like Sendai (Tohoku University), Nagasaki (Nagasaki University), and Sapporo (Hokkaido University) are home to reputable institutions with strong international programs.
Absolutely. Public transport in smaller cities tends to be more affordable, and many residents use bicycles or walk, saving even more money.
While smaller cities have fewer English speakers than Tokyo or Osaka, many still have active expat communities and support networks for international students.
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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