Is the Minimum Wage in Japan Enough? Calculating the Cost of Living and Saving Strategies!
The cost of living in Japan is known to be quite high, especially for housing, transportation, and mobile phone services. For foreign workers or students relying on the Regional Minimum Wage (RMW), it is crucial to determine whether their income is sufficient to cover daily expenses. This article explores a detailed breakdown of living costs in Japan compared with your gaji di Jepang, including accommodation, food, and transportation, while also providing smart saving strategies to help manage expenses efficiently. With proper financial planning, living in Japan can be more affordable without compromising one’s quality of life.
House rental fees for foreign students
More than 70% of international students in Japan find independent rental accommodation. Many of them choose to share a room with friends or acquaintances they meet through social networks. If you are planning to live with others from the start, it is advisable to consult with senior international students before arriving in Japan for proper advice.
Based on a 2023 JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) survey of 10,000 international students, it was found that the cost of renting a house for international students varies depending on the location and type of accommodation chosen. Rent costs in Japan vary depending on the region. Tokyo has the highest rent at ¥57,000, followed by Yokohama in the Kanto region at ¥51,000. Meanwhile, cities like Osaka and Sapporo have lower rents at ¥40,000 and ¥34,000 respectively. The cities with the lowest rents are Sendai and Hiroshima at ¥26,000 each. The national average rent in Japan is ¥41,000 while for example if you work as elderly nurse, the Gaji Kaigo di Jepang ranges between ¥120.000–270.000, this average rent is relatively high. This difference is an important factor for newcomers or international students in choosing a place to live that fits their budget.
Water, Gas and Electricity Costs
The average monthly water, gas and electricity bills for foreign students are as follows. Water and utility bills vary across Japan depending on location. Sapporo in Hokkaido has the highest bill at ¥10,000, followed by Sendai in Tohoku and Hiroshima in Chugoku at ¥9,000. Meanwhile, cities like Yokohama in Kanto, Nagoya in Chubu, and Matsuyama in Shikoku have the same bill at ¥8,000. Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka have the lowest bill at ¥7,000. Nationally, the average bill for water and utilities in Japan is ¥8,000. These cost differences can be an important consideration for newcomers looking to save money while living in Japan.
Total Expenditure of Foreign Students
Relying on the regional minimum wage alone is generally not enough for international students to cover the costs of education and living in Japan. Unless they receive a scholarship or are granted a tuition fee waiver, they may face financial difficulties. Therefore, it is important for international students to plan their finances well, look for scholarship opportunities, and consider various cost-saving options, such as sharing a flat or taking advantage of special student discounts.
Conclusion
The conclusion we can draw from this discussion is that international students in Japan cannot rely solely on the regional minimum wage when you Kerja di Jepang to meet their financial needs. To manage their expenses effectively, they need to seek additional financial support, and implement cost-saving strategies such as shared housing and discounts. Proper financial planning is essential to avoid financial difficulties while studying in Japan.