TokyovsMelbourne
Overall
💰-5.6%
Tokyo is 5.6%cheaper
Rent
🏠-13.3%
Housing is 13.3% lower
Dining
🍽️+41.7%
Restaurants 41.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒-27.3%
Food shopping 27.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Tokyo, Japan and Melbourne, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tokyo is more affordable than Melbourne by approximately 5.6%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Tokyo are higher than in Melbourne by 15%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo's city center costs around ¥180,000, while the same in Melbourne is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Tokyo offers significant savings compared to Melbourne. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ¥1,000 in Tokyo versus A$20 in Melbourne.
Public transportation in Tokyo is more expensive, with monthly passes at ¥10,000 compared to A$170 in Melbourne.
Grocery shopping in Tokyo is more expensive by approximately 38%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Tokyo can expect to spend approximately ¥63,000 per month (excluding rent), while in Melbourne, the same lifestyle would cost around A$786. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ¥220,500 monthly in Tokyo versus A$2,750 in Melbourne. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Melbourne to Tokyo, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Tokyo to Melbourne requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Tokyo
Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tokyo more expensive than Melbourne?
No, Tokyo is approximately 5.6% cheaper than Melbourne. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Tokyo compared to Melbourne?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Melbourne salary when living in Tokyo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Melbourne, you'd need about $47,368 in Tokyo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Tokyo and Melbourne?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 38%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Melbourne offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Tokyo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Tokyo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Melbourne for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tokyo vs Melbourne?
In Tokyo, a single person needs approximately ¥163,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ¥470,500. In Melbourne, these figures are A$2,486 for singles and A$5,550 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Tokyo and Melbourne in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Melbourne to maintain your lifestyle from Tokyo
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