City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs Tokyo — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Tokyo
Tight Budget
COL+Rent: 41.5 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo barely covers basics in Tokyo.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | Tokyo | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $725 | +$181 |
| Groceries | $171 | $316 | $145 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $107 | +$29 |
| Transportation | $46 | $63 | $17 |
| Utilities | $105 | $180 | $75 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $109 | +$27 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
Tokyo equivalent
$854
per month
Only $854/mo in Tokyo matches $1,500/mo in London — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in Tokyo on $1,500/month?
In Tokyo, $1,500/mo is rated "Tight Budget". Allocations: $725 rent, $316 groceries, $107 dining.
Is London or Tokyo cheaper?
Tokyo is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs Tokyo 41.5 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in Tokyo?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$854/mo in Tokyo using COL adjustment.