Kyushu Cost of Living: How Affordable Is Life in Southern Japan?

Are you searching for a more affordable alternative to Tokyo or Osaka? Curious about living in Japan’s subtropical southern island? Understanding the Kyushu cost of living is essential for anyone considering relocation to this vibrant and diverse region that combines urban convenience with natural beauty.

Through extensive research and insights from expatriates currently living in the region, this comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to spend on housing, food, transportation, and other essentials in Kyushu. Whether you’re drawn to the international atmosphere of Fukuoka, the historical significance of Nagasaki, or the natural wonders of Kagoshima, this article provides the financial clarity needed for a successful transition in 2025.

What Makes Kyushu Special?

Kyushu (九州), Japan’s third-largest island, comprises seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. As the country’s southwestern gateway, Kyushu offers a unique blend of international influences, traditional Japanese culture, subtropical climate, and stunning natural landscapes that set it apart from other Japanese regions.

While our previous guides have explored the Tohoku cost of living in the north, the Kanto cost of living around Tokyo, the Chubu cost of living in central Japan, the Kansai cost of living in the Osaka region, and the Chugoku cost of living in western Honshu, Kyushu presents its own distinct value proposition. More affordable than Tokyo, Osaka or even Hiroshima, yet more cosmopolitan than many rural regions, Kyushu represents an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international residents seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Kyushu Cost of Living: The Quick Answer

The average monthly cost of living in Kyushu ranges from ¥160,000 to ¥280,000 ($1,050-$1,900) for a single person, depending on your location and lifestyle. Fukuoka City represents the higher end of this spectrum as the region’s largest urban center, while smaller cities and rural areas in Kagoshima, Miyazaki, and Kumamoto offer significantly lower living costs.

Fukuoka: The Urban Hub of Kyushu

Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city and economic center, provides valuable insight into the cost of living in the region’s urban areas. Let’s examine the typical expenses based on the most recent data:

Housing in Fukuoka

These figures reveal one of Kyushu’s most compelling advantages—housing costs that are approximately 50-60% lower than Tokyo and 20-30% lower than Osaka. This significant price difference makes Fukuoka particularly attractive for those who want urban amenities without the extreme costs associated with Japan’s largest metropolitan areas.

For those interested in purchasing property, the average price per square meter in Fukuoka’s city center is approximately ¥785,000, while locations outside the center average ¥363,000 per square meter—less than half of Tokyo’s prices.

Food Costs in Kyushu

Food expenses in Fukuoka provide insight into the broader Kyushu cost of living:

Restaurant Prices

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: ¥1,150
• Mid-range restaurant (three-course dinner for two): ¥6,000
• Fast food combo meal: ¥850
• Domestic beer (0.5L): ¥240
• Cappuccino: ¥448
• Soft drink: ¥152

Grocery Prices

• Milk (1L): ¥245
• Bread (500g loaf): ¥238
• Rice (1kg): ¥452
• Eggs (dozen): ¥374
• Local cheese (1kg): ¥3,000
• Chicken fillets (1kg): ¥900
• Beef (1kg): ¥3,000
• Apples (1kg): ¥450
• Bananas (1kg): ¥200
• Oranges (1kg): ¥200
• Onions (1kg): ¥471
• Lettuce (1 head): ¥132
• Bottled water (1.5L): ¥108

These prices are generally 10-15% lower than Tokyo but comparable to what you might find in the Kansai cost of living guide. Kyushu is renowned for its agricultural productivity, resulting in fresh, high-quality produce that is often more affordable than in other parts of Japan. When shopping at local markets or dining out in Kyushu, knowing basic Japanese can be extremely helpful. Our 100+ Essential Japanese Phrases guide includes many useful expressions for navigating markets and restaurants in the region.

Transportation Costs

Transportation in Fukuoka and other major Kyushu cities is efficient and relatively affordable:

• Single local transport ticket: ¥280
• Monthly transportation pass: ¥6,085
• Taxi start fare: ¥670 (plus ¥670 per kilometer)
• Gasoline (1L): ¥175

For those considering car ownership, a new Toyota Corolla costs approximately ¥2,815,812, while a Volkswagen Golf is around ¥3,342,000. While cities like Fukuoka and Kumamoto offer decent public transportation, many parts of Kyushu—particularly in rural areas—require a car for comfortable living.

Utilities and Services

Monthly utility costs in Fukuoka:

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m² apartment: ¥31,286
• Mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data: ¥3,920
• Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): ¥5,155

Utility costs in Kyushu can be higher than in regions like Kansai or Chugoku, primarily due to the extensive use of air conditioning during the hot, humid summer months. However, milder winters in southern Kyushu can offset some of these costs compared to northern Japan.

Healthcare and Education

Japan’s universal healthcare system provides consistent service 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 Fukuoka include:

• Preschool/Kindergarten (private, full day): ¥60,000 monthly
• International primary school: ¥1,800,000 yearly

These educational costs are substantially lower than Tokyo and moderately lower than Osaka, making Kyushu an attractive option for expatriate families. If you’re moving with children who will attend Japanese schools, our Hiragana & Katakana Cheat Sheet and JLPT N5 Kanji Cheat Sheet provide excellent resources for helping them adapt to the Japanese education system.

Beyond Fukuoka: Other Kyushu Cities

The Kyushu cost of living varies significantly across the region. Here’s how other notable cities compare:

Nagasaki City

• Housing: 15-20% lower than Fukuoka
• Food: 5-10% lower than Fukuoka
• Transportation: Less comprehensive public transit than Fukuoka
• Advantage: Rich international history, beautiful harbor views, and more temperate climate

Kumamoto City

• Housing: 20-25% lower than Fukuoka
• Food: 5-10% lower than Fukuoka
• Transportation: Good public transit within the city
• Advantage: Central location in Kyushu with easy access to mountains and hot springs

Kagoshima City

• Housing: 25-30% lower than Fukuoka
• Food: 10-15% lower than Fukuoka
• Transportation: Limited public transit compared to Fukuoka
• Advantage: Spectacular views of Sakurajima volcano and access to subtropical islands

Miyazaki City

• Housing: 30-35% lower than Fukuoka
• Food: 10-15% lower than Fukuoka
• Transportation: Limited public transit necessitating car ownership
• Advantage: Beautiful beaches, mild climate, and excellent surfing conditions

For those interested in smaller cities and rural areas within Kyushu, our guide to Living in the Japanese Countryside & Cost of Living in Rural Japan offers additional valuable insights.

Seasonal Considerations in the Kyushu Cost of Living

Kyushu’s subtropical climate creates distinct seasonal expenses:

Summer (June-September)

Summers in Kyushu are extremely hot and humid, particularly in urban areas like Fukuoka and Kumamoto. Air conditioning is essential, adding approximately ¥7,000-¥12,000 to monthly utility bills during peak months. This is reflected in the higher average utility costs in Fukuoka compared to regions like Tohoku or Chugoku.

Winter (December-February)

Winters in northern Kyushu (Fukuoka, Saga) can be chilly but are significantly milder than in regions like Tohoku. Southern Kyushu (Kagoshima, Miyazaki) enjoys a subtropical climate with very mild winters. Winter heating costs typically increase bills by only ¥3,000-¥5,000 per month in northern Kyushu and even less in southern areas—a significant advantage compared to our findings in the Tohoku cost of living guide.

Average Salaries in Kyushu

Understanding local salary levels helps contextualize the Kyushu cost of living:

The average monthly salary in Fukuoka after taxes is approximately ¥194,500. This is substantially lower than Tokyo (¥364,667) and Osaka (¥312,000), but the significantly reduced living costs—particularly for housing—result in a comparable or sometimes better quality of life.

Industry-specific average monthly salaries (after tax) in Kyushu:

• IT/Technology: ¥250,000-¥350,000
• Manufacturing: ¥200,000-¥300,000
• Education (English teaching): ¥220,000-¥270,000
• Tourism/Hospitality: ¥180,000-¥230,000
• Agriculture/Fisheries: ¥170,000-¥220,000
• Entry-level positions: ¥170,000-¥200,000

When compared to our analysis of Okinawa’s cost of living, Kyushu generally offers slightly higher salaries with comparable living costs, especially in urban areas.

Comparing Kyushu and Other Japanese Regions

For a clearer picture of how Kyushu compares to other Japanese regions, consider this comparison for a single person’s monthly expenses (excluding rent):

This comparison reveals that Kyushu offers an excellent middle ground—significantly more affordable than Tokyo while providing better urban amenities and milder climate than regions like Tohoku. Compared to regions explored in our Chugoku cost of living and Chubu cost of living guides, Kyushu offers comparable or slightly higher costs but compensates with a more international atmosphere and gentler climate.

Money-Saving Tips for Living in Kyushu

To maximize your budget in this region:

1. Consider satellite cities – Living in places like Dazaifu or Onojo while commuting to Fukuoka can reduce housing costs by 20-30%
2. Take advantage of local produce – Kyushu’s abundant agriculture means farmers’ markets offer excellent value
3. Use regional transportation passes – The Sugoca card and various regional passes can save significant money
4. Embrace local cuisine – Kyushu specialties like tonkotsu ramen and mentaiko are often less expensive than international options
5. Consider shared housing options – Sharehouse arrangements are becoming popular in cities like Fukuoka and can reduce housing costs by 30-50%
6. Learn basic Japanese numbers – Our Counting to 100 in Japanese guide will help you understand prices and negotiate effectively

Who Will Thrive in Kyushu?

The Kyushu cost of living and lifestyle make this region particularly well-suited for:

• Young professionals drawn to Fukuoka’s growing startup scene and tech industry
• International residents appreciating the historical connections to Korea, China, and the West
• Food enthusiasts exploring Kyushu’s distinct culinary traditions
• Outdoor lovers enjoying the mountains, beaches, and hot springs
• Climate-sensitive individuals preferring milder winters than northern Japan
• Digital nomads leveraging lower costs while maintaining urban conveniences

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyushu Cost of Living

How does Fukuoka compare to Tokyo for expatriates?

Fukuoka offers substantially better value than Tokyo for expatriates. With housing costs 50-60% lower and other expenses generally 10-30% less expensive, your money goes significantly further in Fukuoka. The city has been actively attracting international residents and businesses, resulting in a growing expatriate community and infrastructure. While offering fewer international amenities than Tokyo, Fukuoka provides enough English support for comfortable living, excellent transportation, and a more relaxed lifestyle.

Is a car necessary for living in Kyushu?

In Fukuoka City and to some extent in Kumamoto and Nagasaki, public transportation is sufficient for daily needs. However, in smaller cities and rural areas, a car becomes increasingly essential. For those living outside major urban centers, budget for car ownership costs including purchase price, insurance (approximately ¥5,000-¥10,000 monthly), gasoline, and maintenance. The need for a car is similar to what we described in our Chugoku cost of living guide.

Which area of Kyushu is most affordable?

The most affordable areas are found in rural Kagoshima, Miyazaki, and Kumamoto prefectures, where housing costs can be 50-70% lower than Fukuoka. Cities like Miyakonojo, Kirishima, and Yatsushiro offer particularly good value. However, these areas require stronger Japanese language skills and typically necessitate car ownership. For a balance of affordability and convenience, mid-sized cities like Saga, Oita, and Kumamoto offer good value while maintaining adequate infrastructure.

How does the climate affect living costs in Kyushu?

Kyushu’s climate creates a trade-off in seasonal expenses. The subtropical weather means higher cooling costs in summer but lower heating costs in winter compared to northern Japan. Overall, residents typically spend more on electricity for air conditioning but save on heating, heavy winter clothing, and snow removal costs. The financial impact varies by location—northern Kyushu experiences more seasonal variation than southern areas like Kagoshima and Miyazaki.

How much Japanese language ability is needed in Kyushu?

Basic Japanese skills are important in Kyushu, though Fukuoka has more English infrastructure than other parts of the region. While tourist areas and major transportation hubs offer some English support, daily life outside these areas requires at least fundamental Japanese. Our 100+ Essential Japanese Phrases guide provides an excellent starting point for daily communication. In comparison to what we noted in our Kanto cost of living guide, you’ll find less English support in Kyushu than in Tokyo, but more than in regions like Tohoku or Shikoku.

How much should I budget for initial moving costs to Kyushu?

Plan for:

• Initial housing costs (deposit, key money, agent fee): equivalent to 2-3 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 ¥500,000-¥800,000 (approximately $3,300-$5,300) available for initial setup costs is advisable.

Conclusion: Is Kyushu Right for You?

The Kyushu cost of living represents one of Japan’s best value propositions, offering an ideal balance between affordability, climate comfort, and urban amenities. With costs substantially lower than Tokyo and even Osaka, Kyushu provides an opportunity to experience a dynamic part of Japan without the financial pressure of the country’s largest cities.

Whether you choose Fukuoka’s international vibe, Nagasaki’s historical richness, Kumamoto’s central convenience, or the subtropical lifestyle of Kagoshima and Miyazaki, Kyushu offers diverse environments to match various lifestyles and budgets. Compared to our explorations of the Kanto cost of living, Kansai cost of living, and Chubu cost of living, Kyushu emerges as perhaps the most well-rounded option for those prioritizing climate comfort alongside cost—offering substantially lower costs than Kanto, milder weather than Tohoku or Chubu, and a more international atmosphere than many parts of Chugoku.

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 Kyushu? Share your questions or plans in the comments below!

This article was last updated in February 2025 with the most current pricing information available for the Kyushu 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.