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Fukuoka🇯🇵

Japan · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Timezone
Asia/Tokyo
Nomad community
Small

City metrics

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)US$800/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)US$550/mo
Cost of living (national avg)1134 (USA=100, World Bank ICP)
Cheap mealUS$8.00
Mid-range meal for 2US$35.00
Monthly groceries~US$280

Infrastructure

Internet speed180 Mbps
Healthcare index82/100
Coworking spaces~20

Lifestyle

Safety index82/100
Air quality15 AQI — Good
Walkability75/100
Climate score75/100
English proficiencylow
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Visa easemedium
Budget score55/100
Lifestyle score78/100
Overall nomad score
72/100
Source: World Bank ICP (cost of living, USA=100), Ookla (internet), OpenAQ (air quality) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

Living in Fukuoka offers a genuine slice of Japanese life without breaking the bank. It's an ideal spot for nomads seeking an authentic experience in a charming city that still feels accessible. Rent is quite affordable, especially compared to bigger Japanese cities, making it easy to stretch your budget further. You'll find internet speeds are impressively fast and reliable, perfect for remote work. While the expat and nomad community is present, it's fairly small, so don't expect a massive international scene. English proficiency among locals is generally low, so embracing some Japanese phrases will greatly enhance your daily life and integration. This city is wonderfully safe, allowing you to explore with peace of mind. The main caveat is that visa requirements can be moderately complex to navigate, so plan accordingly.

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Who this suits

FamiliesPremium lifestyleClean air seeker

Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Fukuoka.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Fukuoka as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Fukuoka averages around $800 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Japan sits at 1134 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Fukuoka safe for digital nomads?+

Fukuoka scores 82/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.

How fast is the internet in Fukuoka?+

Headline average internet speed in Fukuoka is around 180 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.

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