I’m currently in the process of applying at a company based in Tokyo. The minimum wage listed for the role is 400K JPY minimum and goes up from there.
Let’s say they’d want to evaluate my ability first and put me in 400K before tax first, what kind of lifestyle can I expect? I’ve no problem living in a slightly smaller room until I can afford a better place, but I’m more worried about being able to save up after spending on groceries and daily necessities.
I’m currently in Perth with a 70K AUD salary and I usually able to save up half my salary as it comes in if there is no additional big spending.
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**Is gross 400K JPY a month a livable wage in Tokyo right now?**
I’m currently in the process of applying at a company based in Tokyo. The minimum wage listed for the role is 400K JPY minimum and goes up from there.
Let’s say they’d want to evaluate my ability first and put me in 400K before tax first, what kind of lifestyle can I expect? I’ve no problem living in a slightly smaller room until I can afford a better place, but I’m more worried about being able to save up after spending on groceries and daily necessities.
I’m currently in Perth with a 70K AUD salary and I usually able to save up half my salary as it comes in if there is no additional big spending.
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You could live on that and save. Think about it as 3k USD per month. Depending on the type of place you get you could pay all bills and save. However if you’re trying to save more I think it’s a pay cut, I’m not sure what that position is but it’s low. I’ve heard this amount is offered to non speaking English tech workers, which is low compared to native English speaking tech workers.
When I was an English teacher at a private kindergarten school a few years ago, I was getting paid 2.3k and others 3k per month. I was able to travel and go out to have fun while living in a small loft apartment in Tokyo. I also had a tiny bit left to save. Of course this was back in 2019 so take it with a grain of salt. I’ve thought of moving back since I now work as a data analyst but have yet to find anything.
Liveable depending on what type of housing and location you want to be in.
Certainly very doable though
CoL is generally better in Tokyo than Perth (rent may not be) but you’re talking about a 30-40% pay cut. How much could you save on that salary? 50K per month, 100K? Given the current exchange rate that’s still far less than you are currently saving.
Seems like you’re frugal already so that should be doable without buying anything fancy.