Tokyo vs Rome: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Tokyo (Japan) and Rome (Italy) reveals a cost-of-living index of 59.8 in Tokyo versus 64.5 in Rome (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Tokyo is 7.3% more affordable than Rome.

Metrological Indicator Tokyo (Japan) Rome (Italy)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 59.8 64.5
Rent Index 32.7 39.3
Groceries Index 65.2 57
Restaurant Price Index 39.4 60.3
Local Purchasing Power Index 84.5 68.4
1-Bed Apartment in City Center ¥156,000 €1,144
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal ¥1,144 €15.60
Monthly Public Transit Pass ¥10,400 €36.40
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) ¥22,880 €182.00
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 77.9/100 · Health 86.4/100 Safety 48.9/100 · Health 72.1/100

Is Tokyo more expensive than Rome?

Rome has a higher overall cost-of-living index (64.5) compared to Tokyo (59.8), representing an index differential of 4.7 points (7.3% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Tokyo and Rome?

In Tokyo, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages ¥156,000/month (Rent Index: 32.7), whereas in Rome it averages €1,144/month (Rent Index: 39.3).

→ Tokyo Full Cost Report → Rome Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Tokyo

The cost of living in Tokyo, Japan is indexed at 59.8 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Tokyo are defined by a Rent Index of 32.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about ¥156,000 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Tokyo, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages ¥1,144, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around ¥541. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately ¥10,400, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging ¥22,880 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Tokyo secures a safety index rating of 77.9/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 82.5/100, healthcare standard scores 86.4/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 94.8 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: TOKYO-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Rome

The cost of living in Rome, Italy is indexed at 64.5 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Rome are defined by a Rent Index of 39.3. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,144 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Rome, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €15.60, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €1.56. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €36.40, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €182.00 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Rome secures a safety index rating of 48.9/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 91.2/100, healthcare standard scores 72.1/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 86.4 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: ROME-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED