Los Angeles vs Tokyo

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Tokyo is roughly 62% more affordable than Los Angeles (index 35 vs 93, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Tokyo
More affordable overall
62% cheaper than Los Angeles · Cost index: 35 vs 93

Head-to-Head Stats

93Cost Index35
3,834Median Income /mo2,520
40Safety Index87
25Income Tax %22
242Internet (Mbps)185
300Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

Los AngelesCategoryTokyo
$2,839/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
59% ← cheaper
$1,175/month
$1.6/liter
Meal for One
1% ← cheaper
$1.58/liter
$16/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
44% ← cheaper
$9/meal
$122/month
Monthly Transit Pass
61% ← cheaper
$48/month
$245/month
Utilities (Monthly)
51% ← cheaper
$120/month
$164/visit
Doctor Visit
70% ← cheaper
$50/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Los Angeles

Internet242 Mbps
Coworking$300/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability69/100

Tokyo

Internet185 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Los Angeles cheaper than Tokyo?

Tokyo is cheaper than Los Angeles. Tokyo has a cost of living index of 35/100 compared to 93/100 for Los Angeles (New York = 100), making it roughly 62% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Tokyo than Los Angeles?

Tokyo is approximately 62% cheaper than Los Angeles based on cost index scores (35 vs 93, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Los Angeles could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,139/month in Tokyo.

What is the rent comparison between Los Angeles and Tokyo?

In Los Angeles, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,839/month. In Tokyo, the equivalent is around $1,175/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Los Angeles or Tokyo?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Los Angeles offers 242 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$300/month. Tokyo offers 185 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Tokyo has a cost advantage of 62%.

What is the average income in Los Angeles vs Tokyo?

The median net monthly salary in Los Angeles is approximately $3,834 USD, compared to $2,520 USD in Tokyo.

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