Hey everyone,
I’m 30, from LA, currently a police officer making around 180k. I’ve been seriously thinking about leaving the U.S. and starting a new life in Japan.
I already did the hard part financially. I’ve saved about 100k, and that’s invested bringing in around $500/month in dividends (I reinvest it right now). So I’m not coming in broke or desperate.
I fully understand I’d be taking a massive pay cut. I’m okay with that. My mindset is if my bills are covered and I can still save maybe $200–500/month, I’m good.
Plan right now would be:
• Start with teaching English (no experience yet, willing to get TEFL) have bachelor degree.
• Use that as a way in
• Long term try to transition into something else or potentially start/buy a business or invest in property if I stay
Now the real concerns:
- Teaching salary
Realistically, how tight is life starting out? Is saving even $200–500/month realistic or am I underestimating things?
- Long-term ceiling
Is Japan one of those places where you get stuck teaching forever, or do people actually transition out into better opportunities?
- Dating (important to me, being real)
I’m a Black American male, in shape, 5’8, dress well, never had issues dating in the U.S.
I want honest answers here, especially from other Black men or people of color:
• What is dating actually like?
• Is it difficult socially or just different?
• Any of you build real long-term relationships or get married there?
- Overall lifestyle
Coming from LA, I’m used to a high cost of living but also high income. I’m trying to understand if the trade-off is worth it in terms of quality of life.
Not looking for sugarcoating. Just real experiences.
by Sea_Excitement_6672