Osaka vs Tokyo

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Osaka is roughly 40% more affordable than Tokyo (index 22 vs 36, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Osaka
More affordable overall
40% cheaper than Tokyo · Cost index: 22 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

22Cost Index36
1,929Median Income /mo2,676
72Safety Index92
20Income Tax %20
74Internet (Mbps)85
180Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

OsakaCategoryTokyo
$600/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
31% cheaper →
$870/month
$1.7/liter
Meal for One
$1.7/liter
$10/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$10/meal
$48/month
Monthly Transit Pass
40% cheaper →
$80/month
$110/month
Utilities (Monthly)
19% cheaper →
$135/month
$50/visit
Doctor Visit
$50/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Osaka

Internet74 Mbps
Coworking$180/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Tokyo

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Osaka cheaper than Tokyo?

Osaka is cheaper than Tokyo. Osaka has a cost of living index of 22/100 compared to 36/100 for Tokyo (New York = 100), making it roughly 40% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Osaka than Tokyo?

Osaka is approximately 40% cheaper than Tokyo based on cost index scores (22 vs 36, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Tokyo could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,800/month in Osaka.

What is the rent comparison between Osaka and Tokyo?

In Osaka, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $600/month. In Tokyo, the equivalent is around $870/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Osaka offers 74 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$180/month. Tokyo offers 85 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Osaka has a cost advantage of 40%.

What is the average income in Osaka vs Tokyo?

The median net monthly salary in Osaka is approximately $1,929 USD, compared to $2,676 USD in Tokyo.

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