What It’s Like Moving from Chicago to Tokyo
Get a Free Moving Quote Now!
Start Your International Moving Journey
It’s a pretty huge transition moving overseas from Chicago to Tokyo, but most people will say it’s more exciting than scary. These cities have such different rhythms, lifestyles and cultural scenes that the change is large — but also refreshing. Chicago residents moving to Tokyo are generally looking for a complete reset: a new pace, new habits and environment that disrupts their daily routines in beneficial ways.
Professional international moving companies can make these moves easier on you by handling the packaging, shipping or even dealing with the local movers in another country. For resident Chicagoans, professional international movers can take the stress of planning a move and provide you with safe travels for your belongings.
How Different Are Living Costs Between Chicago and Tokyo?
One of the first things you notice after moving is the change in daily expenses. Tokyo has a reputation for being expensive, but many Chicago international moving companies note that costs can feel surprisingly balanced once you settle in.
Rent is the biggest difference. A one-bedroom apartment in downtown Chicago on average rents for around $2,100 per month, which is comparable to about ¥170,000 ($1,200 USD) you’d be paying for the same kind of place in central Tokyo. This reduction can add up for a family or individual moving abroad.
Groceries also move with the habits. The staples of Japanese cuisine like rice, tofu, vegetables and seafood are generally less expensive. Western imports, like cheese and cereals and snacks, are more expensive than at Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s or Aldi. Supermarkets in Tokyo stock less volume than an equivalent American store, so they’re shopped more often and with smaller acts.
Healthcare is another notable difference. Chicago residents often face unpredictable copays and higher insurance costs. In Japan, public healthcare typically covers 70%, and a routine doctor visit may cost only $20–$30. Many Chicago expats consider this one of the biggest lifestyle improvements after international moving.
Transportation costs drop as well. CTA passes, parking, gas, and insurance add up quickly in Illinois. In Tokyo, Suica and Pasmo cards handle most travel, and monthly commuter passes usually cost $50–$100. Many newcomers skip owning a car entirely, though some may consider international car shipping if they wish to bring a vehicle from the U.S.
What Cultural Adjustments Will You Notice Daily?
Moving from Chicago to Tokyo involves adapting to new social norms. Chicagoans are used to direct communication, casual public behavior, and louder environments. In Tokyo, people move with quiet awareness. Conversations on trains are soft, lines are orderly, and personal space is respected.
Handshakes are replaced for a bow, silence during meals is typical and politeness suffuses daily life. Work culture promotes agreement and indirect communication. While this may feel unusual at first, many Chicago professionals find it predictable and easier to navigate over time.
Even small tasks like waste separation require adjustment. Recycling rules are detailed and vary by district. Still, Tokyo’s safety, cleanliness, and efficiency make it easy to adapt with a little observation.
How Does Transportation Work Without a Car?
Chicagoans who regularly drive may find it strange to live without a car, but Tokyo makes car-free life effortless. Most international movers advise against shipping vehicles unless necessary. But for those who would like to see their car in Japan, there are international car shipping services that can handle the necessary paperwork and documents involved.
The public transport system is world-class – clean, reliable, easy to use. Stations also have floor markings to stand on, elevators, family-friendly pathways and storage lockers. Trains arrive within seconds of schedule, and commuting is often faster than Chicago’s CTA or Metra.
Both the Suica and Pasmo can be used on trains or buses, as well you can use them to pay in stores like FamilyMart or Lawson. Delivery services, station elevators and clearly marked walkways have made it a comfy commute for families, seniors or anyone lugging bags of groceries.
What Should You Know About Housing in Tokyo?
It is interesting to see how Tokyo housing compares against Chicago. Apartments are smaller, more efficient and designed to help tenants maximize space. A family of three can live quite comfortably in 600 square feet, with sliding doors and built-in storage — and rooms that do double duty.
Bathrooms are divided, kitchens typically have two-burner stoves and compressed refrigerators replace U.S.-style large appliances. Though they will likely be longing in size for Chicago’s larger kitchens, Tokyo apartments offer technological amenities such as heated toilet seats and energy-saving appliances.
Renting comes with unique requirements. Key money (essentially a nonrefundable gift) and a guarantor are often required by landlords. Many expats hire English-speaking agencies and international movers to help navigate paperwork. Each neighborhood has its own tempo — high, in the whirlwind of Shinjuku; low, in quieter areas such as Meguro or Suginami.
Where Can You Find Affordable Rent?
Several Tokyo neighborhoods offer reasonable rents without sacrificing safety or convenience:
- Itabashi – ¥75,000 ($525) for a 1-bedroom
- Kita – ¥85,000 ($595)
- Suginami – ¥90,000 ($630)
- Edogawa – ¥80,000 ($560)
- Adachi – ¥70,000–¥85,000 ($490–$595)
- Nerima – ¥88,000 ($615)
- Arakawa – ¥82,000 ($575)
Compared to Chicago’s North Side, these neighborhoods are more budget-friendly and convenient.
How Do Food Shopping and Dining Out Compare?
Eating habits will change quickly. Chicago grocery hauls at Costco, Target or Aldi are replaced with Tokyo pop-ins to supermarkets and convenience stores. FamilyMart, Lawson and 7-Eleven all have fresh meals — bento boxes, sandwiches, noodles — that are cheap ($5 or so).
Quality seafood and produce are of high quality and priced well. Meat is more costly on a per-gram basis, while rice, tofu and vegetables are cheaper. Western-style stores like National Azabu or Costco Japan are an option, but more expensive and farther away. Eating out is almost always cheaper than in Chicago, particularly for ramen, udon and curry or conveyor-belt sushi — you can eat extremely well for under $10.
Is Moving from Chicago to Tokyo Worth It?
Moving across the world is a huge decision, but moving from Chicago to Tokyo rarely disappoints as an interesting experience. The cheaper cost of living, fast and safe public transportation, and vibrant culture make life in Tokyo exciting.”+
Professional international movers help you move without hassle. From packing and shipping to moving abroad logistics and overseas car shipping services, having the necessary assistance minimizes the stress of setting in.
For most Chicagoans, the Tokyo metropolis is a city of surprises: efficient, thrilling and surprisingly family- friendly.