Single · Comfortable · $3,000/mo

KurumeOverall winner

Kurume is approximately 117% less expensive than Ueda based on cost of living including rent. This makes Kurume a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.

Kurume has a FIRE Score of 75/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The city's safety index is 88, which is relatively safe.

Recommended profile: Kurume is ideal for GeoArbitragers and remote workers looking to maximize savings.

Side by side

Best in row

Japan

Kurume

Normal Precautions
FIRE75

Japan

Ueda

Normal Precautions
FIRE88
Cost
Cost of living index
65.2
-
One person, excluding rent
Best in row. $1,011/mo
$1,550/mo
Family of four, excluding rent
Best in row. $3,651/mo
$5,600/mo
Total monthly, rent included
Best in row. $610/mo
$826/mo
Monthly savings
Best in row. $2,390/mo
$2,174/mo
Housing
1BR, city centre
Best in row. $190
$412
1BR, outside centre
Best in row. $127
$336
3BR, city centre
Best in row. $475
$887
3BR, outside centre
Best in row. $317
$412
Scores
FIRE score
Best in row. 83/100
71/100
Nomad score
22/100
Best in row. 50/100
Retiree score
64/100
Best in row. 74/100
Overall score
75/100
Best in row. 88/100
Safety & infrastructure
Safety index
88
Best in row. 90
Internet speed
Best in row. 200 Mbps
85 Mbps
Walkability score
-
-

Estimates from published local prices. N/A means no figure is published for that city.

About these cities

About Kurume

About Japan

Safe, efficient, and financially punishing for anyone chasing early retirement. A 1BR in central Tokyo runs $531.81/mo, cheap by American standards, but progressive income tax up to ~55% (incl. local) erases most remote-work savings. No retirement visa exists, and the digital nomad route requires $6,667/mo income with zero path to permanent residency or citizenship without a long, difficult grind.

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Kurume vs Ueda -- Frequently Asked Questions

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