INFO Cost of Living in Okinawa

[Square]

I feel like a thread with this title may be a good landing spot for people considering the move to Okinawa. As one of said people, I wonder if some of you wouldn't mind sharing what you consider the standard monthly cost of living for you. No need to say "it depends on location, family size, special requirements etc.". Just as detailed a breakdown as you are willing to give on your own situation - which could include location, family size, special requirements etc.

 

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[island cyclist]

Well, I think if people in the know will share, it will have a lot of interest. But its my understanding that moving to Okinawa at the present time just might be a good time. The reason why I feel is that some things just might be negotiable, like rents with no key deposits.

I'd like to find out also what bus rides cost. I have plans to be in Okinawa pretty soon, so Square, I'll be on the look out for what things will be costing me. So check back in March or April of this thread if all goes well for me.

I'm interested in renting a run down house actually out in the boondocks, but haven't got any help on that yet.

David and Snow should be able to give you a rundown on things. I, from my own experience living in Yamaguchi, transportation would be probably up on the list and for you I would guess the schools would be up on the list.

I don't know of any Japanese forums that deal with Okinawa.

I would suggest to you go to this site: Free virtual language exchange site using Skype by Dickinson College | The Mixxer
and look for someone that can help you out, you might find someone on Okinawa.

Look for someone that just joined the site, because the people that been on there a while, well you'll be wasting your time trying to get them to write to you.

It's a site put out by a university. Good site. All professional and yes, its free.

 

[David]

No need to say "it depends on location, family size, special requirements etc."

I honestly don't think this matters in Japan with all the social programs available for low income families.

It all depends on how much you're willing to cut from your Canadian lifestyle.

I believe that a family can have two members of the household work for minimum wage and still be somewhat comfortable here, for as long as they forego some luxuries of life. Rent and all associated costs can be as low as 1/2 a month's minimum wage paycheck, leaving a bit to still wiggle with. That ultimately shouldn't be your outlook on life forever, but it goes to show that you can be rock bottom here and everything from housing to serious health can be covered.

We first moved back here in 2009, but lived with my wife's father until his passing about 2 years later. By then we were able to afford a 3LDK apartment. We could've very well gotten a 1K place from the start, but I didn't want my life to be that public with students in and out of our small house.

"What are you willing to give up for a year?" should be the only question on your mind because I think the cost of living here is the minimum wage (×2 for more comfort).