Are you dreaming of studying in Japan and wondering, “How much money do I need to live in Osaka?” Whether you’re planning short-term language studies or preparing for a full academic program, understanding your monthly expenses will help you plan your budget wisely.
At DEOW Japan, we support students from around the world who want to live and study in Japan — and Osaka is one of the top choices for its friendly people, rich culture, and delicious food. Below, we break down typical living costs to help you prepare!
Rent in Osaka
Accommodation costs in Osaka are generally more affordable than in Tokyo. Here are some average monthly prices:
- Private Apartment: 40,000 yen – 65,000 yen
- Shared House: 30,000 yen – 55,000 yen
- Student Residence/Dormitory: 35,000 yen – 60,000 yen
Shared housing or student residences are usually the most budget-friendly and also great for meeting people.
DEOW Japan operates its own share house, Casa Tokiwa, offering affordable and comfortable accommodation for international students.
Learn more about living at Casa Tokiwa here
Food Costs in Osaka
Your food budget will depend on your lifestyle. Cooking at home is the most affordable, but here’s a breakdown of common monthly costs:
- Groceries (cooking at home): 12,000 yen – 18,000 yen
- Convenience Store Meals: 3,000 yen – 5,000 yen
- Eating Out (casual restaurants): 7,000 yen – 10,000 yen
- Cafes & Snacks (1-2 times a week): 2,000 yen – 3,000 yen
Tip: Osaka is famous for cheap and tasty street food — takoyaki and okonomiyaki are a must-try!
School Supples & Fees
Besides tuition, there are other school-related expenses to consider:
- Basic Materials (notebooks, pens, etc.): 3,000 yen – 5,000 yen
- Textbooks & Additional Fees (depends on school): 5,000 yen – 10,000 yen
Phone & Wi-Fi
Staying connected is essential! Here’s what you might expect to pay monthly:
- SIM Card Plan: 2,000 yen – 4,000 yen
- Home Wi-Fi or Pocket Wi-Fi: 2,000 yen – 3,000 yen
Transportation
Osaka’s transportation system is convenient and student-friendly.
- Student Train/Bus Pass: 5,000 yen – 8,000 yen
- Additional Train/Bus (IC Card like Suica or Pasmo): 1,500 yen – 3,000 yen
Personal Items
Everyday essentials add up, so don’t forget to include them in your budget:
- Toiletries & Laundry: 2,000 yen – 3,000 yen
- Other (cosmetics, medicine, small items): 1,000 yen – 2,000 yen
Fun & Social Life
Enjoying your student life in Osaka means balancing your studies and leisure!
- Casual Entertainment (cinema, karaoke, local trips): 4,000 yen – 6,000 yen
- Social Life/Nightlife (izakayas, concerts, shopping): 3,000 yen – 5,000 yen
Estimated Monthly Total:
Depending on your lifestyle choices, a student’s average monthly living cost in Osaka ranges between 80,000 yen – 150,000 yen.
Why Choose Osaka for Studying Abroad?
Osaka offers a fantastic balance: it’s lively but more affordable than Tokyo, full of culture but relaxed, and famous for both its food and friendly locals. Whether you want to explore Kansai’s traditions, enjoy modern city life, or simply improve your Japanese in a welcoming environment, Osaka is a great choice for international students.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards studying in Osaka, DEOW Japan is here to help!
