Colombo vs Tokyo

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Colombo is roughly 46% more affordable than Tokyo (index 20 vs 36, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Colombo
More affordable overall
46% cheaper than Tokyo · Cost index: 20 vs 36

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

20Cost Index36
1,800Median Income /mo2,676
57Safety Index92
18Income Tax %20
45Internet (Mbps)85
150Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

ColomboCategoryTokyo
$550/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
37% cheaper →
$870/month
$0.48/liter
Meal for One
72% cheaper →
$1.7/liter
$4.5/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
55% cheaper →
$10/meal
$20/month
Monthly Transit Pass
75% cheaper →
$80/month
$35/month
Utilities (Monthly)
74% cheaper →
$135/month
$25/visit
Doctor Visit
50% cheaper →
$50/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Colombo

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$150/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability60/100

Tokyo

Internet85 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability80/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colombo cheaper than Tokyo?

Colombo is cheaper than Tokyo. Colombo has a cost of living index of 20/100 compared to 36/100 for Tokyo (New York = 100), making it roughly 46% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Colombo than Tokyo?

Colombo is approximately 46% cheaper than Tokyo based on cost index scores (20 vs 36, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Tokyo could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,615/month in Colombo.

What is the rent comparison between Colombo and Tokyo?

In Colombo, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $550/month. In Tokyo, the equivalent is around $870/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Colombo or Tokyo?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Colombo offers 45 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$150/month. Tokyo offers 85 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Colombo has a cost advantage of 46%.

What is the average income in Colombo vs Tokyo?

The median net monthly salary in Colombo is approximately $1,800 USD, compared to $2,676 USD in Tokyo.

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