Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024-25

Japan is an expensive country to live in for Indian students. The average cost of living in Japan with rent is around Rs. 55,000-78,000 per month for international students. This is an average cost calculated from analysing the earlier trends of living expenses in Japan. The actual cost of living in Japan per month may vary depending on the prices of food, accommodation, transportation, utilities, and other significant expenses.

The Japan living expenses 2024 for international students are very high when compared to those in India. As per the latest statistics, the cost of living in Japan per month for a single person is approximately 124.5% higher than in India.

The average living expenses in Japan 2024 for students is influenced by multiple factors such as expenses for food, accommodation, transportation, and others. However, the major two determining factors for monthly expenses in Japan for Indian students are tuition fees and accommodation in the city. The average study in Japan cost for an undergraduate degree is around Rs. 2,55,500 per annum for top Japan colleges. Whereas, rent prices in Japan range from Rs. 30,000-45,000 per month.

This article evaluates all the major aspects of the cost of living in Japan 2024 in comparison to India. Students who wish to study in Japan are advised to read the complete article to learn about differences in living expenses in popular Japanese cities, top university tuition fees, tips for saving money in the country, and more.

Cost of Living in Japan for Indian Students 2024

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students 2024

How much money do you need to live in Japan as a student? The average living expenses in Japan for international students is around Rs. 55,000-78,000 per month. This is the minimum living expenses in Japan 2024 calculated by adding all the important expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other significant utilities. The major categories for expenses which constitute the cost of living for international students in Japan include:

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1. Study in Japan Cost

Tuition fees in Japan are relatively more affordable than in major study-abroad countries like the USA and UK. For undergraduate students, the average cost at the high-ranking University of Tokyo starts at Rs. 2,55,500 for an academic year.

Also, students will have to pay an admission fee ranging around Rs. 148000 for an academic year. This range may differ between universities and their specific programmes. Check the university website to learn more about the fee structure.

2. Accommodation Costs in Japan

Accommodation in Japan, on average, is 143.3% higher than in India. Without rent, the cost of living in Japan is 119.9% higher than in India. The rent for a single-bedroom apartment generally ranges from Rs. 30,000-45,000 per month. The rent is comparatively higher in the city centres than living outside the city.

Cost of Living in Japan for International Students: Accommodation

3. Food Prices in Japan

For food, Japan is considerably more expensive than in India. Although, Japan offers various pocket-friendly food options for students. However, restaurant prices in Japan are 87.7% higher than in India. Whereas, groceries prices are 127.6% higher in Japan than in India.

Meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant costs around Rs. 3000 for three courses. However, cooking at home can save you a good amount of money.

Food Expenses in Japan 2024

4. Clothing Costs in Japan

The cost of clothing in Japan can vary depending on several factors, including brands, quality, location, and season. Japan has a vibrant second-hand clothing market. Students can shop for clothing in those markets to save money on clothes and shoes.

Living Expenses in Japan for Clothing

5. Transportation Costs in Japan

Japan has an extensive public transportation system which is comparatively convenient and relatively affordable for Indian students than taking a private bus or taxi. The prices for local trains start around Rs. 80 per trip for short distances. Students can use rechargeable smart cards like Suica or Pasmo to get slight discounts on transportation.

Transportation Cost in Japan

6. Utility Costs in Japan

Utility costs are crucial for budgeting living expenses in Japan. The actual utility bills can vary depending on your specific usage, apartment size, location, and season.

Monthly Expenses in Japan: Utilities

Tuition Fees in Japan for International Students 2024

Top Student Cities in Japan 2024

Japan is a popular destination for top student cities in the world. As per the latest QS Best Student Cities 2025 ranking report, Tokyo is the 2nd best student city in the world with an overall score of 99.2. Whereas, Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe and Nagoya were included among the top 150 QS Best Student Cities 2025. Tokyo is more expensive when compared to other cities in Japan followed by Osaka, Kyoto, and then Fukuoka.

Student Living Cost in Japan

Cost of Living in Japan vs India

Generally, the cost of living in Japan is comparatively higher than that of living in India. According to the latest report of Numbeo, the cost of living in Japan is 124.5% higher than in India. Whereas, rent prices are 143.3% higher than in major Indian cities. The difference is due to variables in the cost of housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses.

Living Expenses in Japan vs India

Tips for Saving Money in Japan

Living expenses in Japan can be financially exhausting for Indian students. However, some effective tips can help students to save their money while study in Japan. Check out a few tips that can help you manage your living expenses in Japan while studying:

• Opt for share houses or apartments outside the city centres to cut the expensive rent.

• Cook your own meals at home to save money on expensive restaurants.

• Use public transport and local trains to travel short distances.

• Shop from second-hand clothing markets and department stores to save money on clothes.

• Seek financial assistance and scholarships in Japan from the university to manage your tuition costs in the country.

• Take advantage of free activities such as parks, festivals, and museums.

• Check websites like GaijinPot or local job boards to apply for part-time jobs in Japan.

• Use apps like LINE for communication, which offers free calls and messaging.

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