TokyovsStockholm
Overall
💰-5.6%
Tokyo is 5.6%cheaper
Rent
🏠-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% 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 Stockholm, Sweden reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tokyo is more affordable than Stockholm 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 Stockholm by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo's city center costs around ¥180,000, while the same in Stockholm is approximately SEK 15,000.
Dining out in Tokyo offers significant savings compared to Stockholm. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ¥1,000 in Tokyo versus SEK 120 in Stockholm.
Public transportation in Tokyo is more expensive, with monthly passes at ¥10,000 compared to SEK 970 in Stockholm.
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 Stockholm, the same lifestyle would cost around SEK 4,702. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ¥220,500 monthly in Tokyo versus SEK 16,457 in Stockholm. 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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
Stockholm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tokyo more expensive than Stockholm?
No, Tokyo is approximately 5.6% cheaper than Stockholm. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Tokyo compared to Stockholm?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Stockholm salary when living in Tokyo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Stockholm, you'd need about $47,368 in Tokyo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Tokyo and Stockholm?
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?
Stockholm 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 Stockholm for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tokyo vs Stockholm?
In Tokyo, a single person needs approximately ¥163,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ¥470,500. In Stockholm, these figures are SEK 15,702 for singles and SEK 34,457 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Tokyo and Stockholm 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Stockholm to maintain your lifestyle from Tokyo
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