#Japan #Tokyo #new graduates #GMO Internet Group #Starting Salary Report

Record High Starting Salary for New Graduates

The starting salary landscape for new graduates in Japan is witnessing significant changes, with notable companies raising their entry-level pay. According to a recent report from Frog Co., Ltd. analyzing data from multiple job recruitment platforms, the highest starting salary for the graduating class of 2026 is offered by GMO Internet Group, amounting to ¥591,675. This marks a distinct rise in the average salary expectations, aligning with economic trends that favor high-performing young talents.

The Latest Trends in Starting Salaries

The rise in starting salaries is part of a broader trend observed over the past few years, as reported in the financial media. Notably, various large companies have been increasing their starting salaries to attract skilled young professionals. The reports indicate that the average starting salary for this graduating class is now around ¥216,621, showing a 3.77% increase from the previous year.

One of the key findings of the report is that the proportion of job offers with starting salaries exceeding ¥250,000 has doubled over the last three years, climbing from 4.38% to 12.85%. This change reveals a favorable job market for graduates, where high salary offers are becoming more common.

Ranking of Starting Salaries

In the detailed analysis, the report features a ranking of companies by starting salaries for the 2026 graduates:
1. GMO Internet Group: ¥591,675
2. A.I. System, Inc.: ¥500,000
3. Rapidus, Inc.: ¥433,400
4. Elgar Holdings LLC: ¥430,000
5. M&C Co., Ltd.: ¥430,000

GMO Internet Group leads not only in salary but also in innovation with its 'New Graduate Annual Income of ¥7.1 million Program' which promises substantial incentives based on performance, indicating their commitment to cultivating talent capable of delivering high impact.

Sector Overview

Industry-wise, the highest starting salaries were recorded in the medical and pharmaceuticals sector, with an average of ¥224,850. The report highlights that the sectors of commerce, consulting, and IT also offer competitive salaries, reinforcing the notion that technical and specialized roles are being compensated well as companies strive to attract the best talent.

The consistently rising salary trends are encouraged by various factors including inflation and a competitive job market. Employers are prompted to enhance their salary packages to remain attractive in this environment where graduates are looking for not just competitive pay but also career growth and stability.

Regional Salary Insights

When assessed by region, Tokyo topped the list with an average starting salary of ¥227,493. This is followed by Kanagawa at ¥221,844 and Osaka at ¥219,782. Such regional differences underscore the value of living in metropolitan areas where higher costs are often balanced by better salary packages.

Conclusion

The data from various recruitment platforms illustrates a clear shift in the starting salaries for new graduates in Japan, marking a trend where prospective employees are offered salaries that are reflective of their skills and potential. With a growing inclination towards higher compensation, it will be interesting to observe whether these trends will continue to develop in the coming years, possibly changing the landscape of recruitment and the future of work in Japan.

Employers and recruitment agencies are thus encouraged to utilize such data for informed decision-making in their hiring strategies moving forward.