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Hanami Festival in Kyoto, Japan

Cost of Living in Kyoto, Japan

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 10, 2023

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

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Is the cost of living in Kyoto high?

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

"Living in Kyoto can be considered moderately expensive, especially when compared to other major cities in the world. The cost of housing in Kyoto is relatively high, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being quite costly. Outside the city center, the rent decreases significantly but is still considerable. The cost of food in Kyoto can vary greatly depending on where you choose to eat. Eating out at restaurants can be quite expensive, especially at high-end establishments. However, there are also many affordable options such as street food and local markets where you can buy fresh produce and groceries at a lower cost. Transportation costs in Kyoto are also a significant part of the cost of living. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is widely used and can be quite affordable. However, owning and maintaining a car can be quite expensive due to the cost of petrol, parking, and maintenance. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and internet are also a significant part of the cost of living in Kyoto. These costs can vary depending on the size of your apartment and your usage. Healthcare in Kyoto is of a high standard, but it can also be quite expensive. However, Japan has a universal healthcare system, so residents are required to have health insurance, which can help offset these costs. Overall, while the cost of living in Kyoto can be high, it is also a city with a high standard of living, offering residents access to excellent healthcare, education, and cultural experiences," said one expat in Kyoto.

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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.

Hanami Festival in Kyoto, Japan

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