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Cost of Living in Okinawa, Japan

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 14, 2023

Summary: What is the cost of living in Okinawa, Japan? Hear what expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Okinawa have to say about the cost of housing, health insurance and general living costs.

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Is the cost of living in Okinawa high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Okinawa, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Okinawa, is relatively lower compared to other major cities in Japan like Tokyo or Osaka. Housing is quite affordable, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being significantly cheaper than in Tokyo. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are also reasonably priced. Groceries in Okinawa can be a bit more expensive due to the island's remote location, but it's still manageable. Eating out at restaurants is quite affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing less than what you would pay in Tokyo. Transportation costs are also lower in Okinawa. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, and owning a car is not as necessary due to the smaller size of the island. Healthcare in Okinawa is of high quality and is relatively affordable due to Japan's universal healthcare system. Overall, while the cost of living in Okinawa is not the cheapest in Japan, it is significantly lower than in the country's major cities. It offers a good quality of life with its beautiful beaches and warm climate, making it an attractive place to live," said one person in Okinawa.

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With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.
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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

VRBO
VRBO

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip.
Learn More

VRBOVRBO

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip.
Learn More

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