What is the average salary for foreign English teacher in Tokyo?

Question

My wife and I are teaching English in South Korea at the moment. Our contract is almost finished and we are debating renewing it or moving to Japan (we were recently there on vacation and loved it). From the research I have done, it doesn't seem to make financial sense to make this move because of the high cost of living in Tokyo. Right now, we are saving a lot of money and I am worried that we wouldn't be able to do that in Tokyo. Does anybody know what the average wage of an English teacher in Tokyo is so that I can compare it with my research? Thanks.

Answer 1

Last time I checked most jobs in Japan only pay about $500 to $1000 more than Korea (about 250 000 to 300 000 Yen $2500 to $3000 US).  However, because of the cost of living and most jobs require you to find your own house... that money is quickly burnt up.  Of course if you have the education (Masters or PhD) and experience, you can look for a university.  If you get a professional job, the salary really pays off.