Is Tokyo safe?▾
Tokyo has a homicide rate of 0.2 per 100,000 people (source: UNODC), making it very safe. The world average is around 5.8 per 100,000. The Numbeo Crime Index is 25.1/100 (lower is safer), which reflects residents' self-reported concerns about property crime, theft, and everyday safety. As with any city, awareness of local neighborhoods is recommended before settling.
What is the cost of living in Tokyo?▾
A 1-bedroom apartment in Tokyo city centre costs around $1131/month (Numbeo data). Day-to-day: a cheap restaurant meal: $9.00, monthly transit pass: $80. A single person can expect total monthly costs of roughly $1531–$1931 depending on lifestyle — covering rent, food, transport, and utilities.
What is the weather like in Tokyo?▾
Tokyo has Summers reach around 31°C, winters drop to around 2°C. Summers are hot, so air conditioning is recommended.
Can you get by in Tokyo without knowing the local language?▾
Tokyo has Low English proficiency (EF EPI data). English is less widely spoken here. Learning the local language is strongly recommended for long-term relocation.
Is Tokyo a good place to settle long-term?▾
Tokyo is in Japan, which scores 8.4/10 on the EIU Democracy Index. Strong institutions and rule of law make it a stable choice for long-term settlement. Rent from $1131/month.
What is the job market like in Tokyo?▾
Japan has an unemployment rate of 2.5%, indicating a tight labor market where jobs are relatively plentiful. For settlers planning to work locally, research your industry before committing. Remote workers and self-employed expats are less affected by local employment conditions.
Which companies have offices in Tokyo?▾
Notable companies with offices in Tokyo include Sony, Nintendo, Rakuten, Mercari, Google, Amazon. The city's job market spans tech, finance, and other sectors — check company career pages for current openings.
Is Tokyo good for expats?▾
Tokyo attracts expats looking for long-term relocation in Japan. Key facts: rent from $1131/month; Japan Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements). The Livability Score, safety data, and cost of living figures above give a data-driven picture of what to expect when settling here.
How do I get long-term residency or a visa to live in Japan?▾
Japan offers the Japan Digital Nomad Visa program. Duration: 6 months (no renewal). Requirements: Income ≥ ~$68,000/yr (¥10M). Health insurance required. From countries with tax treaties. The process is manageable but requires preparation and documentation. Check the official government portal for the most up-to-date application process.