Cost Comparison 2025

TokyovsTel Aviv

Japan
Israel

Overall

💰

0.0%

Tokyo is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

-6.7%

Housing is 6.7% lower

Dining

🍽️

+58.3%

Restaurants 58.3% pricier

Groceries

🛒

-22.7%

Food shopping 22.7% less

Comparing the cost of living between Tokyo, Japan and Tel Aviv, Israel reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Tokyo is similarly priced than Tel Aviv. 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 Tel Aviv by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo's city center costs around ¥180,000, while the same in Tel Aviv is approximately ₪6,000.

Dining out in Tokyo offers significant savings compared to Tel Aviv. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ¥1,000 in Tokyo versus ₪60 in Tel Aviv.

Public transportation in Tokyo is more expensive, with monthly passes at ¥10,000 compared to ₪213 in Tel Aviv.

Grocery shopping in Tokyo is more expensive by approximately 29%. 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 Tel Aviv, the same lifestyle would cost around ₪2,001. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ¥220,500 monthly in Tokyo versus ₪7,004 in Tel Aviv. 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

Item
Tokyo, Japan
Tel Aviv, Israel

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
¥180,000
₪6,000
1BR Outside Center
¥100,000
₪4,500
3BR City Center
¥400,000
₪10,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
¥1,000
₪60
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
¥6,000
₪300
Cappuccino
¥450
₪15
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
¥500
₪30

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
¥200
₪6
Bread (500g)
¥250
₪8
Eggs (12)
¥300
₪15
Cheese (1kg)
¥2,000
₪50

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
¥200
₪6
Monthly Pass
¥10,000
₪213
Taxi Start
¥730
₪12
Gasoline (1L)
¥170
₪8

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
¥20,000
₪550
Internet (60 Mbps)
¥4,000
₪100
Mobile Minute
¥40
₪0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Tel Aviv 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 Tel Aviv 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

Cost of Living Index90
Rent Index75
Purchasing Power Index95

Tel Aviv

Cost of Living Index90
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index85

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tokyo more expensive than Tel Aviv?

The cost of living in Tokyo and Tel Aviv is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.

How much salary do I need in Tokyo compared to Tel Aviv?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Tel Aviv salary when living in Tokyo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Tel Aviv, you'd need about $50,000 in Tokyo for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Tokyo and Tel Aviv?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 37%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Tokyo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Tel Aviv provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Tokyo if you prioritize earning potential, or Tel Aviv for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Tokyo vs Tel Aviv?

In Tokyo, a single person needs approximately ¥163,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ¥470,500. In Tel Aviv, these figures are ₪6,501 for singles and ₪14,504 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Tokyo and Tel Aviv 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 Tel Aviv to maintain your lifestyle from Tokyo

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers