Living · Japan

Fukuoka

Cost of living, housing, transport and neighborhoods in Fukuoka.

Fukuoka · Asia ·UTC+9
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MediumCost
Caution: lowSafety
LimitedEnglish
JPY ¥Currency
1,600,000Population

Safety is a general editorial assessment, not an official rating — check the official travel advisories for Japan before travelling.

City Overview

Fukuoka is the largest city in Kyushu and the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture — the economic, trade and gateway city of western Japan, geographically close to Korea and China with strong Asian ties. Famed for Hakata ramen, yatai (street stalls), a lively business scene and a startup-friendly culture, it has recently ranked among Japan’s most livable and entrepreneurial cities. Its airport is near the center for easy access. Costs are lower than Tokyo and Osaka with a young population — the economic and cultural center of Kyushu.

Cost of Living Snapshot

1BR Apartment ¥55,000–80,000/mo (center); ¥42,000–68,000/mo (suburbs)
Dining Out ¥700–1,400 (restaurant); ¥300–600 (convenience store)
Monthly Transport Monthly pass ¥8,000–14,000 (depends on commute)
Monthly Groceries ¥28,000–44,000/mo (supermarket basics)
USD Reference: Approx. USD 350–510/mo (1BR centre)· at 2026-10-09 FX rates
Full Cost of Living Report →

Source: Richbay editorial estimate — indicative, not guaranteed Estimate baseline: 2026-06-19 · Actual costs vary by location, timing, and personal lifestyle.

Getting Around

Municipal subway + Nishitetsu + buses; Hayakaken/nimoca cards work across them. Fukuoka Airport is ~5 min from Hakata Station by subway — among Japan’s most convenient. Shinkansen to Osaka/Tokyo.

Location & maps

Fukuoka on external map services. We don't load a map until you ask for one.

Fukuoka Japan

Housing & Neighborhoods

City Center Tenjin/Hakata (core/commercial)
International Hub Daimyo/Imaizumi (culture/dining)
Quiet & Residential Momochi/Nishijin (livable/seaside)
Budget-Friendly Outer wards (value)

Universities in Fukuoka (1)

Why Live Here

  • Largest Kyushu city; Asian gateway
  • Among the most livable & startup-friendly cities
  • Airport near center; young & vibrant

Plan your move

Frequently asked questions

How are the cost figures estimated?

Cost figures are Richbay editorial estimates of typical rent, food and transport, normalised to USD — indicative, not guaranteed. Verify locally before relying on them.

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