Ben controversy on FB

[Deep Blue]

But cost of living includes other things, like housing, utilities, eating out, transportation.
Housing costs in many places in the UK are just insane.

There are many aspects to this - we have talked about them all before.

Accomodation prices are high in the UK, but then your property is likely to double in price over the long run rather than depreciate to zero. So you pay more initially but you end up with an asset that has appreciated in value... swings and roundabouts maybe. I do think the UK needs to build more housing and bring prices down but it isn't clear to me Japan's model of disposable housing that is often torn down and rebuilt after 25-40 years is a better system.

The tax situation in Japan is insane too, and one of the hardest to avoid. One can always economise on housing, on food, on holidays and adjust discretionary spending as needed in either the UK or Japan. But no way to avoid the very high taxation burden here if you are in the upper brackets.

[adamu]

I asked ChatGPT to have this discussion to save us all some time.

Forum Discussion: Cost of Living in the UK vs. Japan

User1: Hey everyone! I've been thinking about moving to either the UK or Japan, but I'm curious about the cost of living in both countries. Any insights from those who have lived in either place?

User2: I lived in Japan for a few years, and I found the cost of living to be relatively high. Rent for a small apartment in Tokyo can be quite expensive, and groceries are also pricier compared to what I was used to in the UK.

User3: That's interesting, User2! I actually had the opposite experience. I lived in London for a year, and the rent prices there were outrageous. Even sharing a flat with others was quite costly. But I found groceries and public transportation fares to be reasonable.

User4: I've lived in both countries, and I must say that the cost of living can vary greatly depending on the city you choose. In some parts of Japan, like Osaka or Fukuoka, I found the cost of living to be more affordable than in Tokyo.

User5: I'm currently living in Japan, and one thing to keep in mind is that utility bills can add up quickly here, especially during the summer and winter months when you need to use air conditioning or heating.

User6: I had a friend who lived in Kyoto, and she said that while rent was lower there compared to Tokyo, the cost of dining out and entertainment was higher in Kyoto. It's essential to consider your lifestyle preferences when comparing costs.

User7: I moved from the UK to Japan a few years ago, and overall, I've found the cost of living to be relatively similar. Some things are cheaper in Japan, while others are more affordable in the UK. It all comes down to your individual spending habits and priorities.

User8: Agreed, User7! I moved to the UK for work, and I found that public transportation in the UK was more expensive than in Japan. However, healthcare in the UK is a significant benefit, as it's mostly covered by the NHS.

User9: My spouse and I moved from London to rural Japan, and it's been a huge cost-saving for us. Rent is significantly lower, and we can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Plus, fresh produce is more affordable here compared to the UK.

User10: Just to add another perspective, I'm an international student in the UK, and the tuition fees for non-EU students can be quite high. This is something to consider if you're planning to pursue education abroad.

User11: I think both countries have their pros and cons when it comes to the cost of living. Ultimately, it boils down to what you prioritize and how you manage your finances. Both the UK and Japan offer unique experiences that are worth considering.

User12: Absolutely, User11! It's essential to do thorough research and maybe even visit both countries before making a decision. Each person's situation is different, so what might be expensive for one could be affordable for another.

User13: I've been considering a move to Japan for a while now, and this discussion has been enlightening. Thanks, everyone, for sharing your experiences and insights!

User14: Good luck, User13! Whatever you decide, I hope you have a fantastic experience living abroad, whether it's in the UK or Japan! Safe travels!

[captainspoke]

But cost of living includes other things, like housing, utilities, eating out, transportation.
Housing costs in many places in the UK are just insane.

There are many aspects to this - we have talked about them all before.

Accomodation prices are high in the UK, but then your property is likely to double in price over the long run rather than depreciate to zero. So you pay more initially but you end up with an asset that has appreciated in value... swings and roundabouts maybe. I do think the UK needs to build more housing and bring prices down but it isn't clear to me Japan's model of disposable housing that is often torn down and rebuilt after 25-40 years is a better system.

The tax situation in Japan is insane too, and one of the hardest to avoid. One can always economise on housing, on food, on holidays and adjust discretionary spending as needed in either the UK or Japan. But no way to avoid the very high taxation burden here if you are in the upper brackets.

Did you ever hear that old saying about not projecting any bodily fluids into the wind?

[Gulliver]

I asked ChatGPT to have this discussion to save us all some time.

Forum Discussion: Cost of Living in the UK vs. Japan

User14: Good luck, User13! Whatever you decide, I hope you have a fantastic experience living abroad, whether it's in the UK or Japan! Safe travels!

The upbeat tone of this chatGPT conversation really put me in a bad mood!

[Deep Blue]

Yeah it needs someone shouting at the OP for lack of visa planning and then a few jibes about Charisma Man to be slightly realistic

[adamu]

User1: Hey everyone, I'm thinking about moving to either the UK or Japan, but I need to know about the cost of living there. Any info?

User2: Seriously? You're just thinking about it now? Have you even considered visa requirements and the hassle of immigration? You can't just waltz into another country without proper planning!

User3: Whoa, calm down, User2! While visa planning is essential, let's focus on the cost of living topic here.

User4: Yeah, I've heard some expats in Japan get called "Charisma Man" for being clueless about the culture and just winging it. Don't be a Charisma Man, OP!

User5: Oh come on, not everyone's a "Charisma Man." But OP, you better have a solid plan for visas and work permits before even thinking about moving!

User2: I'm just saying, visa issues are real, and you should have thought about it before blabbering about moving abroad.

User6: Alright, we get it, but can we please get back to discussing the cost of living? I've lived in both countries, and there are significant differences we should talk about.

User7: Agreed, let's stick to the topic. The cost of living can vary greatly between the UK and Japan, so it's essential to consider your lifestyle and priorities.

User8: I lived in London, and boy, it's expensive! The rent prices there are outrageous, and public transportation can eat up your budget.

User9: Ha, you think London's expensive? Try Tokyo! The rent there is insane, and utilities will drain your wallet faster than you can say "Charisma Man."

User10: I'm an international student in the UK, and tuition fees for non-EU students are a nightmare. So, if you're considering education there, be prepared to pay a hefty sum.

User2: See? These are the practical things you need to know before making any moves. Visa, tuition fees, rent – it's not all rainbows and unicorns!

User11: Okay, okay, no need to shout. OP should have done their homework, but we can still provide some insights on the cost of living without getting all worked up.

User12: Agreed. In some parts of Japan, like Osaka, the cost of living is more manageable than in Tokyo or London.

User13: Thanks, User12! That's helpful info. I'll consider different cities when comparing costs.

User14: Just remember, OP, don't be a "Charisma Man." Plan your visa properly, and be ready for the realities of living abroad. Good luck!

I won't post any more ChatGPT in this thread, I promise

[TokyoBoglehead]

Do any of you actually want to live in the UK?

The cost of housing, and lunch aside, especially now that you are no longer "European". Is there a real appeal?

If your pinning for the isles, and a vacations not enough, it's probably time to move back.

[beanhead]

Accomodation prices are high in the UK, but then your property is likely to double in price over the long run rather than depreciate to zero. So you pay more initially but you end up with an asset that has appreciated in value... swings and roundabouts maybe. I do think the UK needs to build more housing and bring prices down but it isn't clear to me Japan's model of disposable housing that is often torn down and rebuilt after 25-40 years is a better system.

Agreed. Those folks who believe property in Japan is a valuable asset like in many other countries get a shock.

Though it did worry me when people used to say in the UK that they had no pension plans, their house was their 'pension'.
I am not sure if this line of thinking is still common.
I have seen family members try to downgrade to 'cash in' on that equity in their house, however, and it is not as easy as it looks.

[Deep Blue]

Yes, lots of potential issues with drawning down the equity in your property for retirement income. I don't think this is a good solution for most. But the UK has been running a very generous ISA scheme for decades, which will have allowed anyone with foresight and spare income to build up a very large pot of assets to supplement any state & private pension income. I helped my parents invest in some basic equity tracker fund inside ISA wrappers about 15 years ago and even though they only put in two or three years allowance each the funds have grow to a very sizeable amount now.

[TJKansai]

It's been a while (10yrs or more, so when the yen was stronger), and I never went, but the teachers who were 引率者 for student groups that went to london complained that the per diem didn't cover the basics of being there as an escort.

I hear you on that, especially with the yen so weak right now. Hotel allowance will cover a nice backpackers in Australia, and daily food per diem enough for a decent lunch if you are lucky.