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Japan vs United States

Compare cost of living, taxes, salaries and visas between Japan and United States.

JapanUnited States
Cost of living
Cost of living index108116
Taxes
Income tax (top rate)45%37%
VAT / sales tax10%0%
Social security (employee)β€”7.7%
Corporate tax30%21%
Capital gains20.3%20%
Economy & salaries
Avg net salary$2,600/mo$4,300/mo
Minimum wage$1,300/mo$1,257/mo
GDP per capita$34,000$82,000
Life expectancy84 yr79 yr
Quality of life
LGBTQ+ acceptanceModerateHigh
Digital-nomad visaYesNo

? Frequently asked questions

Is Japan cheaper than United States?

United States is about 7% more expensive than Japan overall β€” its cost-of-living index is 116 versus 108 for Japan.

How much do you need to earn in United States to live like in Japan?

To keep the same standard of living, a $75,000 salary in Japan is worth about $80,357 in United States. Enter your own figure in the calculator above.

Which has lower taxes, Japan or United States?

United States has the lower top income-tax rate β€” 37% versus 45% in Japan.