Want to build a new life and career in Japan? Gaining a clear understanding of the average salary is a crucial first step in managing your finances and choosing the right city and career path that align with your goals.

What’s the standard pay scale in Japan?

According to the latest survey published by the National Tax Agency of Japan (NTA), the average annual salary in 2023 for private-sector employees who worked throughout the year was ¥4,600,000 (approximately USD 32,000). This equals about ¥383,000 per month (USD 2,700). The figure includes workers across different industries and job types, providing a comprehensive view of Japan’s wage landscape.

Breaking it down, male employees earned an average of ¥5,690,000 annually (around ¥474,000 per month), while female employees earned ¥3,160,000 annually (about ¥263,000 per month). Regular full-time staff (正社員) averaged ¥5,300,000 per year, compared to ¥2,020,000 for non-regular employees.

These findings from the Ministry of Finance / NTA report highlight the significant disparities in income between genders and employment types. While Japan remains competitive compared to neighboring economies, wage gaps persist, making it important for professionals to understand these averages when planning their careers and financial goals.

As of 2025, workers in Japan earn an average monthly salary of approximately ¥516,000 (approximately USD 3,485), which amounts to about ¥6,192,000 per year (approximately USD 41,838). This figure reflects a general estimate across various sectors, including both white-collar and blue-collar roles. While competitive compared to many neighbouring countries, this number may fluctuate depending on job type, company size, and city of employment.

The average salary in Japan varies by job.

Average salary in Japan 

By 2025, professionals employed (meaning all salaried workers, from office staff and engineers to teachers, healthcare workers, and service employees) in Japan can expect to receive an average monthly salary of approximately ¥516,000, which translates to about USD 3,485. When projected annually, this figure reaches roughly ¥6,192,000, or around USD 41,838. This average takes into account a wide range of roles, from entry-level positions to mid-career professionals and senior-level staff, providing a useful benchmark for those considering employment in Japan.

It’s important to note that this average reflects broad national trends across many industries, including both technical and non-technical fields. Factors such as geographic location, job function, company size, and work experience all contribute to variations in earnings. Nonetheless, the estimated income offers a helpful overview of general compensation levels in the country and serves as a practical starting point for job seekers, expats, and employers looking to understand Japan’s evolving salary landscape.

Average monthly salary in Japan across industries.

What’s the normal range of earnings?

According to the latest survey by Japan’s National Tax Agency (NTA), the average annual salary in 2023 was ¥4.61 million, which equals about ¥384,000 per month. Salaries vary widely depending on industry, occupation, and experience level.

The median annual salary was approximately ¥3.8 million, showing that half of workers earn less than this figure, while the other half earn more. This gap highlights clear income disparities across different sectors and regions.

In addition, minimum wages are set by prefecture. As of October 2024, the national average minimum wage was ¥1,054 per hour, with Tokyo recording the highest at ¥1,113–1,163 per hour.

Understanding these benchmarks can help workers and job seekers better evaluate opportunities and living costs when planning a career in Japan.

Salary range in Japan varies by role and region.

What’s the Middle Ground?

According to the National Tax Agency’s 2023 survey, the median annual salary in Japan is about ¥3.8 million, which equals roughly ¥316,000 per month. This median value means that half of all employees earn more than this amount, while the other half earn less.

Unlike the average salary of ¥4.61 million per year (¥384,000 per month), which can be skewed upward by high-income earners, the median provides a clearer picture of typical earnings for most workers. For those considering employment in Japan, this benchmark is useful when evaluating job offers and setting realistic financial expectations.

What Can International Employees Expect to Earn in Japan?

Moving to Japan for work is an exciting opportunity, but it also comes with important financial considerations. For many international employees, especially those starting out in entry-level positions, understanding salary ranges, deductions, and overtime pay is essential for managing daily life and planning ahead. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what foreign workers can expect to earn in Japan.

Base Salary for Entry-Level Jobs

Most international employees in Japan begin with monthly salaries ranging between ¥120,000 and ¥150,000 (around USD 770–970). These roles are often in sectors such as:

• Manufacturing and factory work
• Hospitality and restaurants
  Caregiving and healthcare support
• Language support or basic clerical work

Working conditions are typically 8 hours per day, 5–6 days per week, aligning with Japan’s standard full-time schedule. While this pay range may feel modest compared to Japan’s national average (about ¥516,000/month), it provides a starting point for many foreign workers entering the job market.

Take-Home Pay After Deductions

Gross salary in Japan is not the same as take-home pay. After mandatory deductions such as:

• Income tax (progressive, depending on salary)
• Social insurance (health, pension, unemployment insurance)
• Municipal resident tax
• Housing and utilities

the actual amount received is often reduced to around ¥80,000–¥110,000 per month (roughly USD 520–710).

This difference highlights the importance of budgeting. For example, rent in Tokyo for a small apartment may cost between ¥50,000–¥80,000, leaving little room for savings unless workers find affordable housing, share accommodation, or live outside the city center.

Overtime Pay and Extra Earnings

One way many foreign workers supplement their income is through overtime work. Japanese labor law requires companies to pay higher rates for extra hours, with increments depending on when the work is performed:

• Weekday overtime: +25%
• Late-night hours (10 PM–5 AM): +25%
• Sundays and holidays: +35%
• Late-night overtime on holidays: +60–100%

For example, someone in Tokyo earning ¥1,163/hour who works 40 overtime hours per month could earn an extra ¥58,000 (≈ USD 380) on top of their base salary. For many foreign workers, this can make a significant difference in covering rent, saving, or sending money home.

Regional and Industry Differences

Income levels vary significantly depending on both location and job type:

• Tokyo and other major cities (Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya) usually offer higher wages due to higher living costs and stronger demand for labor.
  Rural areas often provide lower wages but may offset this with cheaper rent and daily expenses.
• Industry matters: Caregiving, hospitality, and factory jobs often stay closer to the entry-level range, while IT, engineering, or specialized roles can exceed the ¥200,000–¥300,000/month threshold, even for foreigners.

Saving Potential for International Workers

Ultimately, how much international employees can save depends on personal spending habits and living arrangements. Workers who live in shared housing, cook at home, and avoid expensive city centers can save more compared to those renting solo apartments in central Tokyo.While starting salaries may seem modest, opportunities to increase income through overtime, changing industries, or advancing skills make Japan a financially viable option for many international workers in the long run.

Foreign workers in Japan earn modest wages with overtime pay.

Minimum Wage in Japan

Minimum wages in Japan are set based on each prefecture and industry, reflecting differences in living costs and local economic conditions. The national average minimum wage stands at about ¥1,054 per hour.

Here are some examples of minimum wages by region Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan), Minimum Wage by Prefecture (as of October 2024), MHLW Official Table: These rates highlight the regional differences in living costs and economic activity across Japan.

Prefecture	Minimum Wage (¥ per hour)
Tokyo	1,163
Kanagawa	1,162
Osaka	1,114
Aichi	1,077
Hokkaido	1,010

The Japanese government aims to raise the average minimum wage to ¥1,500 per hour by the end of this decade to improve living standards and encourage domestic spending. For foreign workers, knowing the minimum wage levels is essential to protect their rights and plan their finances effectively while working in Japan.

Why Are Salaries Bigger in Major Urban Areas?

By 2025, salaries across Japan show noticeable differences between cities, reflecting economic disparities, living costs, and job opportunities. Below is an overview of the average monthly wages in several major cities:

City	Average Monthly Salary (JPY)	Average Monthly Salary (USD)
Tokyo	369,400	2,510
Kanagawa	340,700	2,315
Osaka	332,600	2,260
Saitama	308,700	2,098
Chiba	306,500	2,083
Ibaraki	304,200	2,067
Fukuoka	294,000	1,998
Aichi	317,200	2,156
Shizuoka	294,900	2,004
Miyagi	283,700	1,928
Hyogo	312,300	2,122

Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama offer higher wages as they serve as economic, financial, and technological hubs in Japan. The presence of major corporations, diverse job openings, and strong demand for skilled workers drives salaries upward. However, living expenses in these urban centres tend to be higher, especially housing and services.

Conversely, rural areas and smaller towns generally have lower pay levels, which correspond with reduced living costs and fewer employment options. Choosing where to live and work requires balancing salary expectations with living expenses to maintain a good quality of life.

Which Jobs or Industries Pay the Best?

Below is a summary of the highest-paying jobs in Japan for 2025, including average annual salaries and how suitable they are for foreign workers:

Rank	Job Title	Average Annual Income (JPY)
1	Airline Pilot	¥13,805,000
2	Doctor / Physician	¥10,907,000
3	Legal Professionals (Judicial / Legal Services)	¥7,708,000
4	Dentist	¥6,958,000
5	University Professor (including technical colleges)	¥6,663,000
6	Other Management / Finance / Insurance Specialists	¥6,180,000
7	Managerial Professions	¥5,575,000
8	Associate Professor (including technical colleges)	¥5,472,000
9	Certified Public Accountant / Tax Accountant	¥5,064,000
10	Veterinarian	¥4,918,000
35	Software Developer	¥3,854,000

High-paying industries in Japan include technology, finance, healthcare, and executive management.

• Tech jobs like AI and cybersecurity are in high demand with great salaries.
• Finance roles, such as CFOs and investment analysts, earn well, especially in cities like Tokyo.
• Medical professionals, especially surgeons and specialists, receive high pay due to rising healthcare needs.
• Top executives (e.g., CEOs) command large salaries reflecting their leadership and responsibilities.

These roles typically demand more than just technical expertise – they often require a solid academic background, proven work experience, and a good command of the Japanese language. Especially in senior or client-facing positions, being able to communicate smoothly and understand local business culture is a major advantage. Candidates who meet these expectations are more likely to stand out in a competitive job market like Japan’s.

What Impact Does Experience Have on Your Earnings?

In Japan, professional experience plays a major role in determining earnings. The traditional employment culture values tenure, often resulting in gradual income growth over time. This approach, referred to as the nenko system, prioritises dedication and long-standing service within an organisation.

Average Monthly Salary by Age Group in Japan

Here’s a breakdown of typical annual earnings in Japan by age group as of 2025. These figures provide insight into how income levels generally progress with age and experience in the Japanese workforce.

Age Group	Male (JPY)	Female (JPY)	Total Avg. (JPY)
Under 19	¥1,830,000	¥1,670,000	¥1,470,000
20–24	¥2,880,000	¥2,690,000	¥2,500,000
25–29	¥3,940,000	¥3,580,000	¥3,010,000
30–34	¥4,850,000	¥4,310,000	¥3,120,000
35–39	¥5,800,000	¥4,950,000	¥3,030,000
40–44	¥6,350,000	¥5,140,000	¥2,920,000
45–49	¥6,760,000	¥5,230,000	¥2,700,000
50–54	¥7,070,000	¥5,430,000	¥2,770,000
55–59	¥6,970,000	¥5,390,000	¥2,730,000
60–64	¥5,390,000	¥4,220,000	¥2,510,000
65+	¥5,670,000	¥4,610,000	¥2,800,000
Overall Average	¥5,670,000	¥2,800,000	¥4,610,000

The average salary in Japan increases with age and experience, peaking between ages 50–54 before gradually declining as workers approach retirement.

Compensation Changes With Job Tenure

The more years you spend working, the more your income tends to grow. Below is a look at how average pay progresses with professional experience.

Years of Experience	Average Salary Increase Compared to Entry-Level
2–5 years	+32%
5–10 years	+36%
10–15 years	+21%
15–20 years	+14%
Over 20 years	+9%

The biggest jumps in salary typically happen during the early and mid-career years. As professionals gain more experience, their income still grows, but the pace tends to slow down over time. Being aware of this pattern can help you make smarter career choices and set realistic goals for your earnings based on where you are in your professional journey.

Conclusion 

In 2025, salaries in Japan vary depending on your industry, experience, and where you work. Fields like tech, finance, and healthcare, especially in major cities like Tokyo, tend to offer higher pay. Income typically rises quickly in the early stages of your career and levels off as you gain seniority.

If you’re planning to stay and build a long-term career in Japan, finding the right place to live is just as important. That’s where Arealty can help – offering friendly support and clear, reliable housing services tailored to your needs and budget. 

If your monthly salary is around 200,000 yen, take a look at this detailed guide to find realistic rent options in Japan: With 20 man salary, how much rent can I afford?