Make Money Teaching English in Japan: Is it Worth it to be an Eikaiwa Teacher

What teachers abroad can make varies according to the school or company they work for, but most places offer a very standard 25,0000 yen per month. This is equivalent to roughly $2,500.00 per month in the USA.

How Much can a Teacher Make Working in Japan?

Is this a living wage in Japan? That too, depends on the situation. A single person living in subsidized housing makes more than enough over the course of a one year contract. Living expenses in subsidized company apartments should not be more than 5,0000 to 6,0000 Yen per month, and utilities will probably be around 2,000 Yen per month. This leaves plenty to live on each month. Some English teachers in Japan are even able to bring money home after their year contract. Here is a comparison of overseas teaching salaries by company.

What Standard of Living Can be Expected?

For those who are single, and don't have any bills to pay back home, Eikaiwa teachers can live very comfortably in Japan. The income level will allow those teaching in Japan to go out socially, take a few trips, and buy some luxury or commodity items. The compensation is comfortably middle class. After a year, however, this begins to shift somewhat. The longer instructors stay in Japan, the more bills they have. For instance, after a year, residents are expected to pay into the national healthcare system. They may also be expected to pay for city and prefecture taxes. As foreign workers acquire more things, they may also find that there are bills to go along with them. A phone contract will be a must, as well as internet access. Raises as an English teacher in Japan are not very frequent, so people who are working in Asia longer will need to learn to balance a budget a bit differently during a long stint working abroad.

Can English Teachers in Japan Make Money?

Absolutely! It may mean giving up frequent sightseeing trips, or not going out to eat often, but on the wage of an Eikaiwa teacher, those working overseas will easily be able to save money if they choose to. They can also wire money home to pay bills, help family members, or take care of debt back in the teacher's home country. What English teachers can expect to earn working abroad in Japan will vary depending upon placement, and the company they work for. The standard of living will be different in each area. Do plenty of research before leaving, and find out what each particular company is like. Ask teachers who have previously had a chance to teach English overseas what their experience was.