Home › Compare

Nara vs Ōsaka

Japan vs Japan · 28 km apart

Nara

Japan

¥151,309 ($976)

single / month

Cheaper overall

Ōsaka

Japan

¥185,978 ($1,200)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

Expense	Nara	Ōsaka	Cheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	$9.22	$11.14	Nara
Three-course meal for two, mid-range	$36.89	$44.54	Nara
Cappuccino	$2.77	$3.34	Nara
Monthly groceries (single person)	$209	$252	Nara
Monthly public transport pass	$33.81	$40.83	Nara
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment	$89.15	$108	Nara
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)	$25.82	$31.18	Nara
Fitness club membership	$25.82	$31.18	Nara
Cinema ticket	$6.76	$8.17	Nara
One-bedroom apartment in city centre	$519	$658	Nara
One-bedroom apartment outside centre	$361	$457	Nara
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre	$1,084	$1,372	Nara
Total single-person budget	$976	$1,200	Nara
Average net salary	$2,650	$3,200

Verdict

Nara is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Nara runs about $976 versus $1,200 in Ōsaka — a difference of roughly 23%.

Salary-adjusted, Ōsaka leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Nara · Full cost of living in Ōsaka

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nara cheaper than Ōsaka?

Yes. A single person spends an estimated $976 per month in Nara versus $1,200 in Ōsaka — about 23% less.

How far is Nara from Ōsaka?

The straight-line distance between Nara and Ōsaka is approximately 28 km (17 miles).

Which city has better salaries, Nara or Ōsaka?

The estimated average net salary is $2,650 in Nara and $3,200 in Ōsaka. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $1,674 in Nara versus $2,000 in Ōsaka per month.