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What Is The Cost Of Living In Japan For TEFL Teachers?
May 7, 2025
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Salaries in Japan
- Cost of living
- Urban vs rural cost of living
- How to budget
Teaching in Japan is an attractive concept for adventure-seeking TEFL teachers. But it has a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries in the world. So, how much does it cost to live in Japan? What is the cost of living in Japan? And how expensive is it to live in Japan?
We spoke to Matthew, a TTA alumni who is currently (in 2025) living in Japan with his wife. He teaches at NOVA. He gave us some insight into how much things cost in Japan.
FYI: Numbeo rates Japan as the 44th most expensive country in the world, so it might not be as expensive as you think!
But let’s let Matthew tell us more…
I currently live in Funabashi, a vibrant and dynamic city situated in Chiba Prefecture, just east of Tokyo. As part of the Greater Tokyo Area, Funabashi offers an ideal blend of urban amenities and residential comfort. It’s well-connected by multiple train lines, including the JR Sobu Line, Tobu Urban Park Line, and Keisei Line, making commuting to Tokyo or neighbouring cities fast and efficient. What makes Funabashi especially appealing is that it’s quieter and more affordable than central Tokyo, yet close enough that I never feel disconnected from the action—it’s the best of both worlds.
Funabashi is known for more than just its connectivity—it’s a city rich in culture, green spaces, and recreational opportunities. You’ll find large shopping centres like LaLaport Tokyo Bay, charming parks such as Funabashi H.C. Andersen Park (inspired by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen), and it’s just a short distance from theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. The city boasts excellent medical facilities, international dining options, and friendly locals who are used to seeing foreign residents and visitors.
My favourite thing about living in Funabashi is the balance between urban access and peaceful neighbourhoods. The residential areas are quiet and safe, which makes coming home a relaxing experience after a long day of teaching. There’s a sense of community that’s sometimes missing in busier, more commercial areas. Whether I’m enjoying a stroll through a local park, grabbing a bite at a family-owned ramen shop, or hopping on a train to explore Tokyo, Funabashi keeps me close to the action, without the chaos.
TEFL teacher salaries in Japan
Working as a TEFL teacher in Japan can be both rewarding and sustainable, especially if you manage your finances wisely. I work with NOVA, one of Japan’s largest English conversation (eikaiwa) schools. NOVA provides a structured work environment, standardised lesson plans, and extensive training, which makes it a great entry point for new teachers.
Read more: Navigating Japan’s TEFL Scene: 6 Biggest Conversation Schools In Japan
Salaries for TEFL teachers in Japan can vary based on a number of factors, including your employer, location, and teaching experience. At NOVA, the typical monthly salary for a full-time teacher ranges from ¥250,000 to ¥280,000 before taxes.
While this might seem modest compared to salaries in some Western countries, it’s generally enough to live comfortably in Japan, especially outside major metropolitan centres.
In my case, this salary comfortably covers my living expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. However, if you want to save significantly or afford luxuries like travel, high-end electronics, or buy from international retailers, you’ll need to budget carefully.
Cost of living in Japan for TEFL teachers
Housing
I live with my wife in a 1LDK apartment—this means one bedroom, a living room, dining area, and kitchen. It’s a comfortable setup that gives us enough space to live and work without feeling cramped. We chose private accommodation because we prefer more control over our living conditions.
However, for new arrivals in Japan, opting for company-arranged housing can significantly reduce the stress of apartment hunting, especially since some landlords are hesitant to rent to foreigners without a Japanese guarantor.
Our rent is ¥80,000 per month, and that includes basic furnishings, internet access, and utilities like electricity. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the convenience and peace of mind are well worth it. For those living alone, company housing may cost slightly less and typically includes shared amenities.
Food & Groceries
We usually spend between ¥25,000 and ¥30,000 on groceries each month. Supermarkets like Maruetsu, OK Store, and Seiyu offer great deals and carry both Japanese staples and some international items. We do most of our cooking at home, which helps us eat healthier and save money.
Eating out in Japan is relatively affordable.
- A basic meal at a local eatery can cost as little as ¥700 to ¥900. For example, a set meal with rice, miso soup, meat or fish, and vegetables is both filling and inexpensive.
- When we eat out together, dinner at a casual family restaurant costs around ¥1,800 to ¥2,500 for two people.
- If we decide to splurge on sushi or yakiniku, that price might go up, but even then, it’s not excessive compared to Western prices.
Transportation Costs
My daily commute is fully reimbursed by NOVA, which is common practice among many eikaiwa schools. The average one-way fare for train travel is about ¥211, but this varies by distance and rail company.
Public transportation in Japan is exceptionally reliable, clean, and punctual. For leisure or weekend travel:
- Local train rides range from ¥150 to ¥400, depending on the distance.
- A round-trip ticket to central Tokyo costs between ¥1,000 and ¥1,500.
If you plan to travel the same route frequently, buying a commuter pass (teikiken) can save you a lot. These passes are valid for unlimited rides between two stations and can also be used for any stops in between.
Utilities & Internet
- Monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas): around ¥10,000–¥12,000
Usage can fluctuate depending on the season: summer air conditioning and winter heating can drive costs up.
- Internet (fiber-optic connection): ¥4,000–¥5,500/month
Speeds are generally fast and reliable, which is essential for teachers who
offer online lessons or need to stay in touch with family abroad.
Health Insurance & Taxes
One of the major benefits of working in Japan is access to the National Health Insurance (NHI) system. NOVA enrols its full-time employees in this program, which covers approximately 70% of most medical costs. Whether it’s a routine check-up, dental cleaning, or prescription medication, your out-of-pocket expenses are relatively low.
Taxes, including income tax and resident tax, are automatically deducted from your monthly salary. The exact amount varies, but expect around 10–15% of your salary to go toward taxes and insurance combined. While that might sound high, it’s a small price to pay for the level of healthcare access and public services Japan offers.
Leisure & Entertainment Costs
Japan is a country with endless opportunities for entertainment and exploration. In my free time, I enjoy photography, visiting shrines and temples, hiking local trails, and exploring nearby cities like Yokohama or Kamakura.
- A movie ticket typically costs ¥1,800, though discounts are available on certain days.
- A coffee at a café will run you around ¥400 to ¥600.
- Many local sightseeing attractions are either free or
charge a modest entry fee—usually under ¥500.
We keep our entertainment budget modest by prioritising simple pleasures like picnics in the park, free cultural events, or festivals. Japan’s seasonal festivals (matsuri) are particularly fun and don’t cost much to enjoy.
Comparison of urban vs rural cost of living
Where you live in Japan has a huge impact on your monthly expenses. Urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama generally have higher rent, but also more job opportunities, convenience stores, public services, and potential for private tutoring gigs.
On the other hand, rural areas offer a much slower pace of life. Rent in smaller towns or countryside regions can be as low as ¥40,000–¥50,000 for a 1LDK apartment, but you might need a car to get around and will have fewer entertainment options. If you’re looking to save money and enjoy nature, a rural placement might be ideal.
How to budget & save as a TEFL teacher in Japan
Living in Japan doesn’t have to break the bank. With some discipline and smart habits, not only can you cover your expenses, but you can also save a decent amount.
Here are my top five money-saving tips:
- Cook at home regularly. It’s not only healthier but far more
economical than eating out daily. - Shop at budget-friendly supermarkets. Stores like Maruetsu, Seiyu,
and Don Quijote offer great prices. - Invest in a commuter pass. If you travel the same route every day, this
can save you thousands of yen per month. - Use point cards and reward systems. Many stores offer loyalty points
that accumulate quickly and can be redeemed for discounts. - Buy second-hand. Japan has a robust market for used goods. From
electronics to furniture and clothing, you can find high-quality items
at a fraction of the cost.
Living and teaching in Japan is a life-changing experience. The cultural richness, safety, and respect for tradition and innovation create a unique environment for personal and professional growth. While the cost of living can be high, especially in urban centres, careful budgeting, conscious spending, and a willingness to adapt go a long way.
Whether you’re drawn by Japan’s history, cuisine, language, or landscapes, working as a TEFL teacher offers a front-row seat to it all.
It’s a fulfilling journey that’s not just about teaching English, but also about building connections, expanding your worldview, and making unforgettable memories in one of the most fascinating countries in the world.
Meet The Author
Kirsten Colquhoun is the Content Manager for The TEFL Academy. A graduate of Cambridge University and DELTA-qualified, she first started teaching kindergarten in Thailand in 2003. A South African, she has also taught in China, the UK, Spain, Qatar and South Africa, but these days she is a teacher trainer and freelance writer and editor.Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Salaries in Japan
- Cost of living
- Urban vs rural cost of living
- How to budget
Teaching in Japan is an attractive concept for adventure-seeking TEFL teachers. But it has a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries in the world. So, how much does it cost to live in Japan? What is the cost of living in Japan? And how expensive is it to live in Japan?
We spoke to Matthew, a TTA alumni who is currently (in 2025) living in Japan with his wife. He teaches at NOVA. He gave us some insight into how much things cost in Japan.
FYI: Numbeo rates Japan as the 44th most expensive country in the world, so it might not be as expensive as you think!
But let’s let Matthew tell us more…
I currently live in Funabashi, a vibrant and dynamic city situated in Chiba Prefecture, just east of Tokyo. As part of the Greater Tokyo Area, Funabashi offers an ideal blend of urban amenities and residential comfort. It’s well-connected by multiple train lines, including the JR Sobu Line, Tobu Urban Park Line, and Keisei Line, making commuting to Tokyo or neighbouring cities fast and efficient. What makes Funabashi especially appealing is that it’s quieter and more affordable than central Tokyo, yet close enough that I never feel disconnected from the action—it’s the best of both worlds.
Funabashi is known for more than just its connectivity—it’s a city rich in culture, green spaces, and recreational opportunities. You’ll find large shopping centres like LaLaport Tokyo Bay, charming parks such as Funabashi H.C. Andersen Park (inspired by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen), and it’s just a short distance from theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. The city boasts excellent medical facilities, international dining options, and friendly locals who are used to seeing foreign residents and visitors.
My favourite thing about living in Funabashi is the balance between urban access and peaceful neighbourhoods. The residential areas are quiet and safe, which makes coming home a relaxing experience after a long day of teaching. There’s a sense of community that’s sometimes missing in busier, more commercial areas. Whether I’m enjoying a stroll through a local park, grabbing a bite at a family-owned ramen shop, or hopping on a train to explore Tokyo, Funabashi keeps me close to the action, without the chaos.
TEFL teacher salaries in Japan
Working as a TEFL teacher in Japan can be both rewarding and sustainable, especially if you manage your finances wisely. I work with NOVA, one of Japan’s largest English conversation (eikaiwa) schools. NOVA provides a structured work environment, standardised lesson plans, and extensive training, which makes it a great entry point for new teachers.
Read more: Navigating Japan’s TEFL Scene: 6 Biggest Conversation Schools In Japan
Salaries for TEFL teachers in Japan can vary based on a number of factors, including your employer, location, and teaching experience. At NOVA, the typical monthly salary for a full-time teacher ranges from ¥250,000 to ¥280,000 before taxes.
While this might seem modest compared to salaries in some Western countries, it’s generally enough to live comfortably in Japan, especially outside major metropolitan centres.
In my case, this salary comfortably covers my living expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. However, if you want to save significantly or afford luxuries like travel, high-end electronics, or buy from international retailers, you’ll need to budget carefully.
Cost of living in Japan for TEFL teachers
Housing
I live with my wife in a 1LDK apartment—this means one bedroom, a living room, dining area, and kitchen. It’s a comfortable setup that gives us enough space to live and work without feeling cramped. We chose private accommodation because we prefer more control over our living conditions.
However, for new arrivals in Japan, opting for company-arranged housing can significantly reduce the stress of apartment hunting, especially since some landlords are hesitant to rent to foreigners without a Japanese guarantor.
Our rent is ¥80,000 per month, and that includes basic furnishings, internet access, and utilities like electricity. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the convenience and peace of mind are well worth it. For those living alone, company housing may cost slightly less and typically includes shared amenities.
Food & Groceries
We usually spend between ¥25,000 and ¥30,000 on groceries each month. Supermarkets like Maruetsu, OK Store, and Seiyu offer great deals and carry both Japanese staples and some international items. We do most of our cooking at home, which helps us eat healthier and save money.
Eating out in Japan is relatively affordable.
- A basic meal at a local eatery can cost as little as ¥700 to ¥900. For example, a set meal with rice, miso soup, meat or fish, and vegetables is both filling and inexpensive.
- When we eat out together, dinner at a casual family restaurant costs around ¥1,800 to ¥2,500 for two people.
- If we decide to splurge on sushi or yakiniku, that price might go up, but even then, it’s not excessive compared to Western prices.
Transportation Costs
My daily commute is fully reimbursed by NOVA, which is common practice among many eikaiwa schools. The average one-way fare for train travel is about ¥211, but this varies by distance and rail company.
Public transportation in Japan is exceptionally reliable, clean, and punctual. For leisure or weekend travel:
- Local train rides range from ¥150 to ¥400, depending on the distance.
- A round-trip ticket to central Tokyo costs between ¥1,000 and ¥1,500.
If you plan to travel the same route frequently, buying a commuter pass (teikiken) can save you a lot. These passes are valid for unlimited rides between two stations and can also be used for any stops in between.
Utilities & Internet
- Monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas): around ¥10,000–¥12,000
Usage can fluctuate depending on the season: summer air conditioning and winter heating can drive costs up.
- Internet (fiber-optic connection): ¥4,000–¥5,500/month
Speeds are generally fast and reliable, which is essential for teachers who
offer online lessons or need to stay in touch with family abroad.
Health Insurance & Taxes
One of the major benefits of working in Japan is access to the National Health Insurance (NHI) system. NOVA enrols its full-time employees in this program, which covers approximately 70% of most medical costs. Whether it’s a routine check-up, dental cleaning, or prescription medication, your out-of-pocket expenses are relatively low.
Taxes, including income tax and resident tax, are automatically deducted from your monthly salary. The exact amount varies, but expect around 10–15% of your salary to go toward taxes and insurance combined. While that might sound high, it’s a small price to pay for the level of healthcare access and public services Japan offers.
Leisure & Entertainment Costs
Japan is a country with endless opportunities for entertainment and exploration. In my free time, I enjoy photography, visiting shrines and temples, hiking local trails, and exploring nearby cities like Yokohama or Kamakura.
- A movie ticket typically costs ¥1,800, though discounts are available on certain days.
- A coffee at a café will run you around ¥400 to ¥600.
- Many local sightseeing attractions are either free or
charge a modest entry fee—usually under ¥500.
We keep our entertainment budget modest by prioritising simple pleasures like picnics in the park, free cultural events, or festivals. Japan’s seasonal festivals (matsuri) are particularly fun and don’t cost much to enjoy.
Comparison of urban vs rural cost of living
Where you live in Japan has a huge impact on your monthly expenses. Urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama generally have higher rent, but also more job opportunities, convenience stores, public services, and potential for private tutoring gigs.
On the other hand, rural areas offer a much slower pace of life. Rent in smaller towns or countryside regions can be as low as ¥40,000–¥50,000 for a 1LDK apartment, but you might need a car to get around and will have fewer entertainment options. If you’re looking to save money and enjoy nature, a rural placement might be ideal.
How to budget & save as a TEFL teacher in Japan
Living in Japan doesn’t have to break the bank. With some discipline and smart habits, not only can you cover your expenses, but you can also save a decent amount.
Here are my top five money-saving tips:
- Cook at home regularly. It’s not only healthier but far more
economical than eating out daily. - Shop at budget-friendly supermarkets. Stores like Maruetsu, Seiyu,
and Don Quijote offer great prices. - Invest in a commuter pass. If you travel the same route every day, this
can save you thousands of yen per month. - Use point cards and reward systems. Many stores offer loyalty points
that accumulate quickly and can be redeemed for discounts. - Buy second-hand. Japan has a robust market for used goods. From
electronics to furniture and clothing, you can find high-quality items
at a fraction of the cost.
Living and teaching in Japan is a life-changing experience. The cultural richness, safety, and respect for tradition and innovation create a unique environment for personal and professional growth. While the cost of living can be high, especially in urban centres, careful budgeting, conscious spending, and a willingness to adapt go a long way.
Whether you’re drawn by Japan’s history, cuisine, language, or landscapes, working as a TEFL teacher offers a front-row seat to it all.
It’s a fulfilling journey that’s not just about teaching English, but also about building connections, expanding your worldview, and making unforgettable memories in one of the most fascinating countries in the world.
Meet The Author
Kirsten Colquhoun is the Content Manager for The TEFL Academy. A graduate of Cambridge University and DELTA-qualified, she first started teaching kindergarten in Thailand in 2003. A South African, she has also taught in China, the UK, Spain, Qatar and South Africa, but these days she is a teacher trainer and freelance writer and editor.