Living on your own can be difficult, especially if you are in a foreign country. How much does utility cost? How much is the average rent? DON'T WORRY! In this article we will explain and give you tips on how to do job hunting; as well as some helpful tips to live in Japan. Be a Jimoto-min aka jimomin, a local with us!
Breakdown of the cost
The following table shows the average cost of living in the Kansai region of Japan. The cost is per month and for one person so the amount might change depending on the variants.
| Factors | Cost | Comment |
| Rent | For a 1K 70,000~100,000円*The cost will vary depending on the area; there are more places cheaper with rent | Reason for Price ↑・If the building is new ・More facility ・Good security ・Nearer to the station and/or city centre |
| Utility | 5,000~10,000円 | |
| Transportation | ~10,000円 | Many companies provide the transportation cost to your workplace. |
| Expense (Essential) | 25,000~40,000円 | This includes needs such as grocery |
| Leisure | 20,0000~40,000円 | The amount can vary as it includes costs of activities, hobbies, socialising, eating out etc |
| Total | 155,000円 |
Things to note!
There are few points to remember when you start living in Japan when:
- If you are working full time, some amount will be deducted from your salary (around 30% will be deducted) to pay insurance and pension. Therefore, when looking for an apartment, base the rent price on your net income you will receive rather than the salary which is written on your employee contract. In Japan, The average rent is around 30% of the monthly salary. If it exceeds 30%, you might not pass during tenant screening.
If the company rents the house for you, you might be able to rent at a higher rate as there is no tenant screening for you. Or if it is a company property dorm, there will be no tenant screening for you.
- Different areas have different cost of living; some might be rather expensive and some areas might have lower cost of living. Undoubtedly, Tokyo has the highest living cost, especially if you would want to live near or within the city centre. On the other hand, in some prefectures, they provide subsidies or grants to encourage more Regional migration. In this case, with conditions applied, you might receive it hence the cost of living can be minimised for some time.
These are the few of the things to keep in mind to maintain the cost aspect when living in Japan.
Summary
As mentioned earlier, the cost of living varies depending on the area. Therefore, it is highly recommended to research the area’s cost and the factors which affect it. You can also visit the Prefectural Center and use the Living Consultation Service.
How can we help you!
Depending on the area we also have a moving fee support!! Do check it out!
By living in the countryside, you can lower the living costs and also enjoy a different lifestyle which is rich in nature. Therefore, when deciding where to live and work, it is also a good idea to consider what kind of lifestyle you would want alongside the cost of living.
In jimomin.work, we offer career counselling where you can discuss your problems and understand what sort of jobs you want to do.
We aim to spread awareness and give tips and information which are not taught in school or universities. Changing residence card, what is an Entry sheet, how to reserve a moving company; we cover all sorts of topics.
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