Are you considering a move to central Japan? Looking for the perfect balance between big-city amenities and affordable living costs? Understanding the Chubu cost of living is your first step toward making an informed decision about relocating to this diverse and strategically located region.
Based on extensive research and insights from current residents, this comprehensive guide breaks down what you can expect to spend on housing, food, transportation, and other essentials in Chubu. Whether you’re eyeing Nagoya’s urban landscape or the smaller cities nestled among the Japanese Alps, this article provides the financial clarity you need for a successful relocation in 2025.
What Makes Chubu Special?
Chubu (中部), literally meaning “central region,” spans the width of central Honshu and includes nine prefectures: Aichi, Gifu, Shizuoka, Nagano, Yamanashi, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, and Niigata. Geographically diverse, it encompasses everything from Japan’s industrial heartland to picturesque mountain communities and coastal areas.
While our previous guides have explored the Tohoku cost of living in the north and the Kanto cost of living around Tokyo, Chubu offers a compelling middle ground—combining economic opportunities with more reasonable prices than Tokyo while providing better access to urban amenities than more rural regions.
Chubu Cost of Living: The Quick Answer
The average monthly cost of living in Chubu ranges from ¥180,000 to ¥300,000 ($1,200-$2,000) for a single person, depending on your location and lifestyle. Nagoya, as the region’s largest city, represents the higher end of this spectrum, while smaller cities and towns offer significantly more affordable options.
Nagoya: The Hub of Chubu
Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city and the capital of Aichi Prefecture, serves as Chubu’s economic and cultural center. Let’s examine the typical expenses based on the most recent data:
Housing in Nagoya
| Housing Type | Monthly Cost (JPY) | Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | ¥89,000 | ¥75,000-¥150,000 |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | ¥58,333 | ¥50,000-¥70,000 |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) | ¥243,333 | ¥180,000-¥300,000 |
| 3-bedroom apartment (outside center) | ¥123,333 | ¥100,000-¥150,000 |
These prices reveal one of Nagoya’s major advantages—housing costs that are approximately 40-50% lower than Tokyo while still offering excellent urban amenities. This makes Nagoya particularly attractive for those who want city living without the extreme costs associated with living in different regions of Japan, especially Tokyo.
For property buyers, the average price per square meter in Nagoya’s city center is approximately ¥365,000, while locations outside the center average ¥222,500 per square meter—roughly one-quarter of Tokyo’s prices.
Food Costs in Chubu
Food expenses in Nagoya provide insight into the broader Chubu cost of living:
Restaurant Prices
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: ¥1,000
- Mid-range restaurant (three-course dinner for two): ¥5,000
- Fast food combo meal: ¥800
- Domestic beer (0.5L): ¥500
- Cappuccino: ¥453
- Soft drink: ¥156
Grocery Prices
- Milk (1L): ¥223
- Bread (500g loaf): ¥210
- Rice (1kg): ¥462
- Eggs (dozen): ¥337
- Local cheese (1kg): ¥1,520
- Chicken fillets (1kg): ¥925
- Beef (1kg): ¥2,725
- Apples (1kg): ¥482
- Bananas (1kg): ¥358
- Oranges (1kg): ¥633
- Tomatoes (1kg): ¥1,250
- Potatoes (1kg): ¥500
- Onions (1kg): ¥362
- Bottled water (1.5L): ¥203
These prices are generally 5-15% lower than Tokyo but slightly higher than what you might find in our guide to the Tohoku cost of living. When shopping for groceries in Chubu, knowing basic Japanese phrases can be extremely helpful. Our 100+ Essential Japanese Phrases guide includes many useful expressions for navigating markets and restaurants.
Transportation Costs
Chubu’s transportation infrastructure is well-developed, particularly in and around Nagoya:
- Single local transport ticket: ¥240
- Monthly transportation pass: ¥10,000
- Taxi start fare: ¥500 (plus ¥440 per kilometer)
- Gasoline (1L): ¥175
For those considering car ownership, a new Toyota Corolla costs approximately ¥2,450,000, while a Volkswagen Golf is around ¥3,342,000. Unlike Tokyo, where public transportation is often more convenient than car ownership, many parts of Chubu—especially outside major cities—may require a vehicle for comfortable living.
Utilities and Services
Monthly utility costs in Nagoya:
- Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m² apartment: ¥22,250
- Mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data: ¥3,926
- Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): ¥4,383
These costs tend to be about 15-20% lower than in Tokyo, representing significant long-term savings.
Healthcare and Education
Japan’s healthcare system maintains consistent quality across regions:
- Private health insurance supplements the national system and costs approximately ¥5,000-¥10,000 monthly depending on coverage.
- A doctor’s visit typically costs ¥1,000-¥3,000 after insurance.
For families with children, education expenses in Nagoya include:
- Preschool/Kindergarten (private, full day): ¥88,172 monthly
- International primary school: ¥2,433,333 yearly
While these educational costs are higher than in Tohoku, they remain more affordable than equivalent options in Tokyo. If you’re moving with children who will attend Japanese schools, our Hiragana & Katakana Cheat Sheet provides an excellent foundation for the Japanese writing system.
Beyond Nagoya: Other Chubu Cities
The Chubu cost of living varies significantly across the region. Here’s how other notable cities compare:
Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture)
- Housing: 10-15% cheaper than Nagoya
- Food: Similar to Nagoya
- Transportation: Slightly more expensive than Nagoya due to less extensive public transit
- Advantage: Exceptional traditional culture and cuisine, with well-preserved historical districts
Shizuoka City (Shizuoka Prefecture)
- Housing: 5-10% cheaper than Nagoya
- Food: 5-10% cheaper than Nagoya
- Transportation: Similar to Nagoya
- Advantage: Beautiful views of Mt. Fuji, milder climate, and proximity to beaches
Matsumoto (Nagano Prefecture)
- Housing: 15-20% cheaper than Nagoya
- Food: 10-15% cheaper than Nagoya
- Transportation: More limited public options
- Advantage: Spectacular mountain scenery, cooler summers, and winter sports access
Toyama (Toyama Prefecture)
- Housing: 20-25% cheaper than Nagoya
- Food: 10-15% cheaper than Nagoya
- Transportation: Modern tram system within the city
- Advantage: Access to the Japan Sea coast and the Japanese Alps, with lower population density
For those interested in smaller cities and rural areas within Chubu, our guide to Living in the Japanese Countryside & Cost of Living in Rural Japan offers additional valuable insights.
Seasonal Considerations in the Chubu Cost of Living
Chubu’s varied geography creates distinct seasonal experiences that impact living expenses:
Winter (December-March)
The mountainous areas of Nagano, Gifu, and Toyama experience heavy snowfall, significantly increasing heating costs. Winter utility bills in these areas can be ¥8,000-¥15,000 higher per month compared to summer. Coastal areas like Shizuoka have milder winters with smaller cost increases.
Summer (June-September)
Summers in the Nagoya area are notoriously hot and humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F). Air conditioning is essential, adding approximately ¥5,000-¥10,000 to monthly utility bills during peak months. Mountain areas enjoy cooler temperatures and lower cooling costs.
Average Salaries in Chubu
Understanding local salary levels helps contextualize the Chubu cost of living:
The average monthly salary in Nagoya after taxes is approximately ¥339,752. This is lower than Tokyo (¥364,667) but higher than many other regional cities, reflecting Nagoya’s industrial strength and the presence of major employers like Toyota.
Industry-specific average monthly salaries (after tax) in Chubu:
- Manufacturing/Automotive: ¥350,000-¥450,000
- IT/Tech: ¥320,000-¥400,000
- Education (English teaching): ¥230,000-¥280,000
- Hospitality: ¥220,000-¥260,000
- Entry-level positions: ¥180,000-¥230,000
When compared to our analysis of Okinawa’s cost of living, Chubu generally offers higher salaries with a slightly higher but still reasonable cost of living.
Comparing Chubu and Other Regions
For a clearer picture of how Chubu compares to other Japanese regions, consider this comparison for a single person’s monthly expenses (excluding rent):
| Region/City | Monthly Expenses | % Difference from Chubu (Nagoya) |
|---|---|---|
| Chubu (Nagoya) | ¥120,000 | Baseline |
| Kanto (Tokyo) | ¥146,978 | 22.5% higher |
| Kansai (Osaka) | ¥118,000 | 1.7% lower |
| Tohoku (Sendai) | ¥95,000 | 20.8% lower |
| Kyushu (Fukuoka) | ¥105,000 | 12.5% lower |
| Okinawa (Naha) | ¥110,000 | 8.3% lower |
This comparison reveals that Chubu offers a middle ground in Japan’s cost spectrum—more affordable than Tokyo but higher than rural regions like Tohoku. Compared to our guide on the cost of living in Kyoto, Chubu cities like Nagoya offer similar urban amenities at slightly lower prices.
Money-Saving Tips for Living in Chubu
To maximize your budget in this region:
- Consider suburban locations – Living in cities like Gifu, Okazaki, or Toyohashi while commuting to Nagoya can reduce housing costs by 30-40%
- Use local markets – Shopping at morning markets (朝市, asaichi) often yields fresher produce at lower prices
- Take advantage of regional transit passes – The Toica card and various regional passes offer discounts for frequent travelers
- Embrace seasonal foods – Eating locally grown, in-season produce is both cheaper and higher quality
- Consider used furniture and appliances – Recycle shops (リサイクルショップ) offer quality secondhand goods at fraction of new prices
- Learn basic Japanese numbers – Our Counting to 100 in Japanese guide will help you understand prices and negotiate effectively
Who Will Thrive in Chubu?
The Chubu cost of living and lifestyle make this region particularly well-suited for:
- Manufacturing professionals seeking opportunities with major Japanese industrial companies
- Outdoor enthusiasts who value access to mountains, coastlines, and natural hot springs
- Families looking for more space and affordability than Tokyo can offer
- Food lovers interested in exploring central Japan’s diverse culinary traditions
- Digital nomads who want reasonable costs with good infrastructure
- Cultural explorers fascinated by traditional crafts and historical sites
Frequently Asked Questions About Chubu Cost of Living
How does Nagoya compare to Tokyo for expats?
Nagoya offers substantially better value than Tokyo for expatriates. With housing costs 40-50% lower and other expenses generally 10-20% less expensive, Nagoya provides a more affordable urban experience. While offering fewer international amenities than Tokyo, Nagoya still has a growing international community, quality international schools, and sufficient English-language services for comfortable living.
Which area of Chubu is most affordable?
The most affordable areas are in rural Gifu, Nagano, and Toyama prefectures, where housing costs can be 50-70% lower than Nagoya. However, these areas require Japanese language skills and often necessitate car ownership. For a balance of affordability and convenience, cities like Toyama, Matsumoto, and Gifu offer good value.
Is it difficult to find housing as a foreigner in Chubu?
Finding housing in Chubu is generally easier than in Tokyo, with less competition and more foreigner-friendly options. Larger cities like Nagoya have real estate agencies with English-speaking staff. However, you may still encounter properties that aren’t available to foreigners, and guarantors are typically required for rental contracts.
What’s the best time of year to move to Chubu?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather for moving. Avoid moving in summer (July-August) when extreme heat makes the process more difficult, and winter (December-February) when snow can complicate relocations to northern or mountainous areas.
Can I commute from a smaller Chubu city to work in Nagoya?
Yes, commuting to Nagoya from surrounding cities is both practical and common. Cities like Gifu (30 minutes), Okazaki (30 minutes), Toyota (45 minutes), and Tsu (50 minutes) offer more affordable living with reasonable commute times. The efficient train system makes these commutes comfortable and reliable.
How much should I budget for initial moving costs to Chubu?
Plan for:
- Initial housing costs (deposit, key money, agent fee): equivalent to 3-5 months’ rent
- Basic furniture and appliances: ¥100,000-¥200,000
- Utility deposits and setup fees: ¥30,000-¥50,000
- Moving expenses: ¥50,000-¥200,000 depending on distance and volume
In total, having ¥600,000-¥1,000,000 (approximately $4,000-$6,800) available for initial setup costs is advisable.
Conclusion: Is Chubu Right for You?
The Chubu cost of living represents one of Japan’s best value propositions for those seeking a balance between urban convenience and financial sustainability. With prices substantially lower than Tokyo but amenities and career opportunities that exceed many other regions, Chubu offers an attractive middle path for both expatriates and Japanese nationals.
Whether you choose Nagoya’s industrial dynamism, Kanazawa’s traditional charm, or the natural beauty of the Japanese Alps, Chubu provides diverse environments to match various lifestyles and budgets. Compared to our explorations of the Kanto cost of living and Tohoku cost of living, Chubu emerges as a compelling compromise—offering better career prospects than Tohoku with significantly lower costs than Kanto.
For additional resources on living in Japan, including language guides to help with your transition, visit our resources page where you can find free guides like our popular “Counting to 100 in Japanese” and “Hiragana & Katakana Cheat Sheet.”
Are you considering a move to Chubu? Share your questions or plans in the comments below!
This article was last updated in March 2025 with the most current pricing information available for the Chubu region. While I write from the Netherlands, this guide compiles research and firsthand accounts from expats living in the region to provide you with accurate insights.
