Muscat vs. Okinawa: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Muscat Muscat Image by:Gabriele Niek
Okinawa Okinawa Image by:William Chen

- Muscat (Oman): Larger population (4.5 million), higher GDP per capita ($36,200), faster population growth (1.75%). Okinawa (Japan): Smaller population (1.3 million), lower GDP per capita ($46,200), slower population growth (0.43%).

Climate Index
67.2 / 80.6
Cost of Living Index
45.2 / 56.4

Muscat   Okinawa

1. Cost of Living: Muscat: Index 50.9 (lower). Okinawa: Index 56.37 (higher).

Health Care Index
63.3 / 88
Pollution Index
36 / 27.3

Muscat   Okinawa

2. Property Prices: Muscat: $23,000/sq m. Okinawa: $8,611/sq m (lower).

Purchasing Power Index
116.9 / 77.7
Quality of Life Index
189.4 / 179.3

Muscat   Okinawa

3. Salaries: Muscat: $1,600/month. Okinawa: $1,340/month (lower).

Safety Index
81.4 / 78.9
Traffic Commute Time Index
22.7 / 22.1

Muscat   Okinawa

4. Property Price-to-Income Ratio: Muscat: 14.4 (more affordable relative to income). Okinawa: 18.3 (less affordable relative to income). Okinawa: Higher scores in safety (92/100), healthcare (85/100), and environment (80/100). Muscat: Higher climate index (75/100) but lower in safety, healthcare, and environment. Pros for Muscat: Higher income potential, lower cost of living. Pros for Okinawa: Better quality of life, lower property costs. Key Trade-off: Muscat offers economic advantages but sacrifices quality of life; Okinawa prioritizes quality of life but has lower income potential. Muscat: Ideal for career-driven individuals prioritizing economic opportunity. Okinawa: Better for those valuing safety, healthcare, and environmental quality.

MuscatMuscat
OkinawaOkinawa

Local cuisine & dishes

Muscat

ShuwaA traditional Omani dish of slow-cooked meat, typically lamb or goat, wrapped in banana leaves and spices. The meat falls off the bone with a rich, smoky flavor. Often served with a side of white rice or bread, Shuwa is a must-try for its tender texture and aromatic depth.
HilimyiaA hearty fish stew made with local Omani fish, tomatoes, onions, and a medley of spices. The broth is thick and flavorful, while the fish remains flaky and succulent. Traditionally served with khubz (Omani flatbread), Hilimyia offers a taste of Muscat's coastal heritage.
QabsehA fragrant rice dish cooked with chicken or meat, saffron, and cinnamon. The grains are perfectly fluffy yet aromatic, served alongside a side of salad or sambousek (fried pastries). Qabseh in Muscat often features local touches that set it apart from other regional versions.

Okinawa

OkonomiyakiA savory pancake filled with ingredients like shredded pork, shrimp, and vegetables, topped with mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed. Okinawa's version often includes local touches like goya (bitter melon) and is thicker and chewier than the mainland Japanese variety.
Goya ChampuruA stir-fry made with goya (bitter melon), tofu, pork, and vegetables. The dish has a slightly bitter yet balanced flavor, served with rice. It's known for its vibrant green color and chunky texture, reflecting Okinawa's emphasis on local produce.
RafuteA rich, savory dish of braised pork belly cooked in soy sauce, sugar, and often flavored with shiso leaves. The meat is tender and fatty, with a deep umami flavor. Traditionally served at festivals or special occasions, it's a staple of Okinawan cuisine.
MuscatMuscat
OkinawaOkinawa

Travel & attractions

Muscat

Sultan Qaboos Grand MosqueThe largest mosque in Oman, known for its stunning architecture and intricate decorations.
Al Alam PalaceA royal residence of the Sultan of Oman, located near the port of Muscat, with distinctive Islamic architecture.
Muttrah SouqAn old market in Muscat offering a variety of goods such as spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
Royal Opera House MuscatA world-class performing arts venue showcasing various cultural events and performances.
Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)A natural limestone sinkhole filled with turquoise water, located approximately 60 km from Muscat.

Okinawa

Shuri CastleA UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle was once the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom's kings.
Kokusai-doriA bustling shopping street in Naha, featuring a mix of local and international stores.
Churaumi AquariumOne of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing various marine life from Okinawa's waters.
Okinawa Churaumi National ParkA park featuring the Churaumi Aquarium, tropical forests, and a beautiful ocean view.
Cape ZanpaA scenic cape known for its dramatic cliffs and lighthouse, offering stunning sunset views.

Real estate & living comparison

Muscat Okinawa
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 1554.98 USD 1200 USD
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 421.07 USD 328.99 USD
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 775.03 USD 672.54 USD
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 1770.3 USD 1338.12 USD
GDP Growth Rate: 1.31 USD 1.68 USD
Monthly Public Transport Pass (Regular Price) 78.02 USD 42.78 USD
Basic Utilities for 85 m2 Apartment (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) 130.29 USD 160.28 USD
Population 1,421,409 142,094

Last updated: 2026-04-16T17:12:05+00:00

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