Introduction
Moving to Japan as a foreign resident can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with plenty of questions—especially about managing finances. One of the biggest concerns many face is:
“How much will it cost to live in Japan?”
Whether you’re here for work, study, or family, understanding the cost of living and knowing how to save can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll break down average living expenses in Japan and share practical tips for saving money. Plus, we’ll show you how to manage your finances easily, even without a Japanese bank account, using MobalPay—a solution designed specifically for foreign residents.
Let’s get started!
Average Monthly Living Costs in Japan
The cost of living in Japan can vary depending on where you live, your lifestyle, and how well you manage your budget. Below is a breakdown of what many foreign residents typically spend per month in Japan:
🏠 Rent
Tokyo area: ¥60,000–¥100,000 for a shared apartment or small studio
Smaller cities: ¥30,000–¥70,000
Tip: Share houses and guesthouses are popular choices among foreign residents to save money and meet new people.
🍽 Food
If you mostly cook at home: ¥20,000–¥30,000/month
If you eat out regularly: ¥35,000–¥50,000/month
Tip: Supermarkets and 100 yen shops are great places to save on groceries—convenience stores can get expensive quickly.
📶 Mobile Phone & Internet
SIM card (data + calls): ¥1,000–¥5,000/month (depending on provider) →Mobal SIM
Wi-Fi at home: ¥4,000–¥6,000/month (often included in rent for share houses)
→Mobal offer Pocket Wifi and it’s perfect for home/portable WiFi
🚆 Transportation
Local travel with IC cards (Suica, Pasmo): ¥5,000–¥10,000/month
If commuting regularly, a commuter pass (teiki-ken) can reduce travel costs.
🎮 Other Expenses
Entertainment, subscriptions (e.g. Netflix, Spotify), outings: ¥5,000–¥15,000
Health insurance (required): around ¥2,000/month (foreign residents may have different options)
Initial setup costs (furniture, home goods): one-time ¥10,000–¥30,000
💡 Total Estimated Monthly Budget:
Tokyo: ¥120,000–¥180,000
Other cities: ¥80,000–¥130,000
Money-Saving Tips for Foreign Residents in Japan
Living in Japan doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you use these smart money-saving tips tailored for foreign residents:
🏡 Live in a Share House or Guesthouse
Rent is often the highest cost for foreign residents. Share houses are a cost-effective solution and a great way to meet other people living in Japan.
🛒 Shop at Discount Stores and Supermarkets
Avoid the convenience stores for everyday shopping—supermarkets, discount shops like Don Quijote, and 100 yen stores offer much better deals.
🍱 Take Advantage of Discounted Bento Boxes
Many supermarkets discount their bento boxes and other ready-to-eat meals in the evening—perfect for a cheap, delicious dinner.
📱 Use a Budget SIM Card or Wi-Fi Plan
Avoid overpriced mobile plans by using a prepaid SIM card or a low-cost mobile carrier. Many cafes and public places also offer free Wi-Fi.
🎟 Take Advantage of Free Activities
Look for free or low-cost activities like local festivals, museum exhibits, and community events. You can enjoy Japan on a budget without missing out on the culture.
🚆 Get a Commuter Pass or IC Card
If you regularly travel the same route, a commuter pass can save you money. For occasional travel, Suica or Pasmo IC cards are a convenient option.
Managing Your Money in Japan as a Foreign Resident
For foreign residents, managing money in Japan can be tricky, especially without a Japanese bank account. However, MobalPay is a perfect solution for those in this situation.
💳 What Is MobalPay?
MobalPay is a prepaid Visa card designed specifically for foreign residents living in Japan. You don’t need a Japanese bank account to apply, and the card is accepted both in-store and online.
✅ Why MobalPay Is Ideal for Foreign Residents
No Japanese bank account required
Easy to apply with just a passport and address in Japan
Use it for all kinds of payments—from groceries to online shopping
Track your spending through the app and reload funds easily
Accepted at many locations across Japan, just like a regular credit card
🔄 Perfect for Budgeting and Managing Your Expenses
Because MobalPay is a prepaid card, you can load only what you need, which makes it easier to stay on top of your finances and avoid overspending. Perfect for foreign residents who may not have a regular income stream yet or need a secure payment method.
With MobalPay, you can take control of your financial life in Japan—no bank account necessary. It’s a simple, effective way to pay for everything from groceries to monthly subscriptions, all while keeping track of your budget.
Conclusion: Living in Japan as a Foreign Resident Made Easy
Living in Japan as a foreign resident doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By understanding your costs, shopping smart, and managing your money wisely, you can enjoy all that Japan has to offer while sticking to your budget.
And when it comes to managing your finances, MobalPay is the perfect solution for foreign residents. It allows you to pay, budget, and manage your expenses without the need for a Japanese bank account.
Ready to simplify your payments and budgeting in Japan?
Learn more about MobalPay and get started today!