Japan is one of the most developed regions in the world.
As an industrial business hub, economic growth has been fast over the last several decades.
The population has increased across the major industrial cities to create a broader consumer market and workforce.
Here is a list of the richest cities in Japan, with a thorough comparison of the housing conditions and associated living costs.
Table of Contents
Comprehensive list of the Richest Cities in Japan
To create room for everyone, most cities in Japan have seen a rapid expansion, with a high demand for residential developments.
Due to the advancements in technology, living in Japan is considered expensive.
The number of wealthy people willing to spend more to acquire resources has also raised the cost of living.
Japan’s rich culture and history make it an exciting country to work and live.
As a Result – Most workers and super-rich residents prefer living in the major cities for easy access.
However, this has led to congestion in most urban areas, although some cities are wealthier than others.
Here some of the cities considered rich in Japan.
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1. Tokyo
While Japan ranks as the second most wealthy country in the World, Tokyo ranks among the top three most affluent cities.
The modern landscape, with awe-striking architecture, attracts wealthy investors, making it the lifeline of Japan.
The metropolitan area has various international financial centers, an intricate transport system, and technological advancements.
As the most populated city in Japan, living in Tokyo is expensive.
To be at the center of all the city has to offer, you have to be willing to spend more on basic needs like food and housing.
Booking.comThe housing situation in Tokyo
Housing in Tokyo is costly; the nearer you live to the city center, the more you pay.
The residential areas in Tokyo are known as wards, and the central neighborhoods are the most expensive.
However, demand is still high, and most of these wards already have many residents.
If you want cheaper housing, living in the northern wards or side of Tokyo is ideal.
However, the commute to work or school within the city will be longer.
Neighborhoods with foreign embassies and business headquarters are preferred by foreigners and expatriates, making them extravagant.
To rent an apartment in Tokyo, one has to choose between a short or long-term lease.
You get an unfurnished house for a long-term lease. In this case, electricity, gas, and water are billed separately. Internet connection is often an additional cost.
The rent per unit may differ in one block of apartments based on a few factors.
They are:
- Size of the apartment and number of rooms in the unit.
- Age of the apartment block and type of construction.
- Distance to the nearest train or bus station.
- The amenities available, such as in-built AC, balconies, and parking spaces.
Cost of Living in Tokyo
Here is a breakdown of the basic costs of living in Tokyo:
- Rent for a three-bedroom house in Tokyo will cost above $3,000 a month.
- You will pay from $1,000 to slightly above $2,000 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $200 depending on usage.
- Food costs $40 per day to feed at least three people.
- Transport costs are about $12 a day.
Entertainment costs are higher in Tokyo due to luxurious restaurants, shopping complexes, and social facilities.
Tokyo is ideal for you if you are looking for a fast-paced city life.
There are so many international schools and access to the public transport system is easy.
2. Fukuoka
Fukuoka is one of the densely populated harbor cities in Japan.
It’s one of the oldest cities, with a rich Kyushu culture and history.
Manufacturing industries in the area major in vehicle assembly and spare parts manufacture.
The housing situation in Fukuoka
Housing in Fukuoka is cheaper compared to neighboring cities.
The city offers an excellent work-life balance with entertainment spots attractive to residents and visitors.
Rent is affordable, and you get more space and amenities.
Booking.comCost of Living in Fukuoka
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost between $550 to $1,000 a month.
- You will pay $250 to $480 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $120, depending on usage.
- Food costs $20 per day to feed at least three people.
- Transport is shorter and cheaper at about $70 a month.
Read next – 5 Best Hotels in Fukuoka
3. Kawasaki
Kawasaki is an industrial city separated from Tokyo by the Tamagawa River.
As one of the richest cities in Japan, it is famous as a technology hub.
The city has a high population of local and international residents, who contribute to the extensive economy of the town.
The housing situation in Kawasaki
The city is lively, has an easy commute and comfortable living quarters.
Affordable apartments are available with modern amenities in the town and around it.
There are public universities and schools within walking distance from residential areas.
Cost of Living in Kawasaki
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost about $1,000 a month.
- You will pay $250 to $500 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $150, depending on usage.
- Food costs $20 per day to feed at least three people.
- Transport is shorter and cheaper at about $70 a month.
Read later – 5 Best Hotels in Kawasaki
4. Chiba
Chiba is home to the two Disney Parks in Japan.
Besides the international attraction, the city boasts the longest sandy beach, perfect for people who love water sports.
The wealth in Chiba is due to its natural land and surroundings, which attract investors and visitors alike.
The housing situation in Chiba
Chiba has a relaxed, small-town feel and hence cheaper housing facilities.
However, along the beachfront, properties tend to be costly as more wealthy Japanese are moving here.
Since it is a big, less congested city, affordable apartments are new and easy to come by.
It is the ideal spot for someone who loves space, fresh air and a cheaper way of life.
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Cost of Living in Chiba
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost between $800 to $900 a month.
- You will pay $250 to $600 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $100, depending on usage.
- Food costs $20 per day to feed at least three people.
- Transport is about $100 a month.
5. Osaka
Osaka city is a wealthy international business hub in Japan, contributing about 4% of Japan’s GDP.
Densely populated, Osaka has various manufacturing industries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and construction firms.
It has the highest number of wealthy individuals as residents, after Tokyo.
The housing situation in Osaka
Housing in Osaka is pretty expensive, almost similar to Tokyo.
Highly competitive, new land to construct homes is scarce, and the current living conditions are deteriorating.
The millions of public housing facilities available cannot accommodate the influx of people.
Private developments are the general solution, although they are costly.
Booking.comCost of Living in Osaka
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost from $1,200 and above a month.
- You will pay above $700 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $150, depending on usage.
- Food costs $30 per day to feed at least three people.
- Transport is about $8 every day.
6. Yokohama
Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan after Tokyo.
It is the largest port and ship manufacturing industrial area.
International companies have offices in this area, which is the headquarters of most Japanese manufacturing industries.
The housing situation in Yokohama
The wealthy Yokohama residents, including foreigners and residents, live in modern apartment complexes or houses built on the Yamate hills.
Access to the city is easier for commuters, and there is relatively affordable housing in Yokohama for workers in the manufacturing sector.
Cost of Living in Yokohama
A breakdown of the living expenses in Yokohama is as follows:
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost between $800 to $1200 a month.
- You will pay between $300 to $750 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $150, depending on usage.
- Food costs $25 per day to feed at least three people.
Yokohama has public schools, universities, modern entertainment, and shopping centers to cater to all.
7. Saitama
Saitama City is on the Eastern side of Japan and is steadily growing in population.
Local manufacturing industries, medical facilities, technology research institutes, and proximity to Tokyo make it a famous city.
The housing situation in Saitama
Saitama is a suburb area North of Tokyo, popular with wealthy residents seeking spacious living spaces and tracts of land.
It is also an affordable area for residents willing to commute to Tokyo for work.
The southeast suburb area has mansions and low-level homes, while the western parts are rural homes.
Cost of Living in Saitama
Although the commute to Tokyo is long, living costs are relatively affordable.
- Rent for a three-bedroom house will cost between $900 to $1500 a month.
- You will pay between $200 to $550 monthly for a one-bedroom or studio apartment.
- Utilities cost about $110, depending on usage.
- Transport costs around $100 monthly.
- Food costs $30 per day to feed at least three people.
Conclusion
Previously, the richest cities in Japan were densely populated, but there has been a shift in recent times.
Although most economic growth remains in the main cities like Tokyo, people are moving away to lower living costs.
Most manufacturing companies have branches in other cities, making it easier to ease the congestion.
Additionally, the wealthy Japanese are buying and developing second properties away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
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