*When it comes to stretching your paycheck for a night out, no country does it better than Japan. A June 2026 study by gaming studio Galaxsys examined entertainment spending across more than 30 countries, and Japan emerged as the clear winner for affordability.
Japanese residents spend just under $100 a month on leisure activities including streaming services, movies, and dining out. That adds up to less than 4% of their monthly disposable income of roughly $2,400. For context, the United Kingdom and France require nearly double that share of income for the same kinds of entertainment.
The United States claimed second place. Americans spend about $200 a month on leisure, which represents 4.6% of a monthly disposable income that averages around $4,300. Higher prices for dining and entertainment are offset by significantly higher salaries, keeping the burden relatively light.
New Zealand came in third at 4.8%, followed by South Korea, where a restaurant meal runs around $7 and gaming subscriptions cost less than in Western markets. South Koreans earning roughly $2,050 a month can enjoy regular outings while keeping entertainment costs under 5% of their income.
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Rounding out the top five, the Czech Republic holds its own with entertainment consuming 5.1% of monthly disposable income. Czechs benefit from some of Europe’s most affordable bar prices, with two beers running under $5 and typical restaurant meals costing around $10.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Israel ranks among the most expensive countries in the study. Residents there devote more than 10% of their disposable income just to basic leisure spending.
The Galaxsys study tracked monthly subscription costs for Netflix, Spotify, and Xbox Game Pass, alongside expenses for movies, dining, and drinks, comparing all figures to local disposable income.
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