Verdict: Chiang Mai is 70% cheaper — saving you $1,385/month ($16,620/year)
Chiang Mai ($595/mo)
Tokyo ($1,980/mo)
1BR Apartment (Center)
$350
$1200
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$200
$750
Cheap Meal
$2
$8
Mid-Range Meal
$8
$25
Transit Pass
$20
$70
Utilities
$50
$130
Internet
$15
$40
Groceries
$100
$300
CategoryChiang MaiTokyoDifference
1BR Apartment (Center)$350$1200$-850
1BR Apartment (Outside)$200$750$-550
Cheap Meal$2$8$-6
Mid-Range Meal$8$25$-17
Transit Pass$20$70$-50
Utilities$50$130$-80
Internet$15$40$-25
Groceries$100$300$-200
Total Estimated$595$1,980$1,385 (70%)

Safety Index

Chiang Mai: 75/100

Tokyo: 91/100

Average Monthly Salary

Chiang Mai: $600

Tokyo: $3,200

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chiang Mai cheaper than Tokyo?

Chiang Mai is approximately 70% cheaper.Chiang Mai costs around $595/month vs Tokyo at $1,980/month. That is a saving of $1,385/month ($16,620/year).

Which city has cheaper rent — Chiang Mai or Tokyo?

Chiang Mai has cheaper rent.Chiang Mai charges $350/month for a city-center 1BR, while Tokyo is $1200/month.

Which city is safer — Chiang Mai or Tokyo?

Tokyo is safer, with a safety index of 91/100 vs 75/100.