City Guide 2026
Japan
Living in Tokyo
Everything you need to know about cost of living, visas, taxes, climate, and lifestyle in Tokyo, Japan.
Monthly Cost (Solo)
$3,345
Rent + groceries + bills
Safety Score
76/100
Low crime
Avg Temperature
16°C
61°F average
Tourist Visa
90 days
DN visa available
Internet Speed
180 Mbps
Fast
Cost of Living in Tokyo
Rent Prices (USD/month)
| Apartment | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $2,650 | $1,723 |
| 3 Bedroom | $9,000 | $5,850 |
Source: Numbeo, crowd-sourced data.
Groceries
$375/month
Healthcare
$150/month
Utilities
$120/month
Transport
$50/month
Climate in Tokyo
Monthly Average Temperature (°C)
Jan
5.2°
Feb
6.1°
Mar
9.5°
Apr
14.8°
May
19.2°
Jun
22.6°
Jul
26.4°
Aug
27.8°
Sep
24.1°
Oct
19°
Nov
13°
Dec
7.9°
Air Quality (AQI)
45
Good
Avg Rain Days/mo
9
days per month
Beach Distance
0 km
to nearest coast
Mountains
30 km
to nearest range
Lifestyle in Tokyo
Walkability
60/100
Internet Speed
180 Mbps
Cultural Score
75/100
Nightlife
85/100
Outdoor Activities
48/100
English Proficiency
80/100
Expat Community
medium
Transit Quality
good
Coworking Spaces
3+
LGBTQ+ Friendly
moderate
Tax Overview in Japan
Tax System
Worldwide (taxes global income)
Tax residency threshold: 183 days/year · Treaty network: excellent
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Capital Gains (Long-term) | 20% |
| Capital Gains (Short-term) | 20% |
| Dividend Tax | 20% |
| Interest Income | 20% |
| Wealth Tax | None |
| Crypto Gains | 20% |
| Exit Tax | No |
| Estate Tax | No |
Special Regime: Non-Permanent Resident Taxation
Tax rates are estimates. Consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Tokyo?
A comfortable solo lifestyle in Tokyo costs approximately $3,345-5,352/month for a single person or couple, covering housing in the city center, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and transport. Rent for a 1-bedroom in the center averages $2,650/month.
Is Tokyo safe for expats?
Tokyo has a safety index of 76/100 (higher is safer). Tokyo is considered very safe with low crime rates. Most expats report feeling comfortable walking around at night. Healthcare quality is rated 90/100.
What is the weather like in Tokyo?
Tokyo has an average annual temperature of 16°C (61°F). The warmest months reach 27.8°C and the coolest drop to 5.2°C. Air quality is good with an average AQI of 45.
What is the internet speed in Tokyo?
Average internet speed in Tokyo is 180 Mbps, which is excellent for remote work and video calls. There are 3+ coworking spaces available.
What taxes will I pay living in Japan?
Japan uses a worldwide tax system. Capital gains are taxed at 20% (long-term) and dividends at 20%. There is no wealth tax. Tax residency kicks in after 183 days/year. A special regime (Non-Permanent Resident Taxation) may offer reduced rates.
Can I get a digital nomad visa in Tokyo?
Yes, Japan offers a digital nomad visa valid for 6 months. The residency pathway is: 10 years for standard; 3 years for 70-point HSP; 1 year for 80-point HSP..
Is Tokyo good for digital nomads?
Tokyo has fast internet at 180 Mbps, a medium expat community, and 3+ coworking spaces. English proficiency is high at 80/100. The cost of living index is 83/100 (NYC = 100), making it relatively expensive for remote workers.
Can You Retire on $X in Tokyo?
Run the FIRE math for Tokyo against the most-searched portfolio milestones — honest yes/no/tight verdicts with the numbers behind them.
Compare Tokyo with other cities
See what your money actually buys across housing, food, healthcare, and more with our lifestyle purchasing power tool.