Accommodation in Japan: Rent Prices, Short-Term Rentals, and Long-Term Options

Thinking about moving to Japan and finding the right place to stay?

Accommodation in Japan includes many choices for students, expats, or someone planning a long-term stay. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka have options such as:

• Student dormitories for international students
• Shared apartments with flexible rent options
• Fully furnished rentals near universities and city centers

Rent prices change depending on the city, the type of accommodation, and the location.

That’s why this guide covers:

• The average rent in Tokyo for students 2025
• Monthly rent in Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka for expats
• Renting a shared apartment in Tokyo for students
• Expat-friendly neighborhoods in Japan 2025 you should know

So, whether you are heading to a university in Tokyo or planning to work in Osaka, this blog will help you understand housing options and make the right choice.

If you’re considering moving for your studies or work, here are a few useful links to help you get started:

– Discover Bachelor’s Programs Abroad and Master’s Programs Abroad that can lead you to study opportunities in Japan.

– Planning accommodation? Start by exploring the Student Accommodation Abroad guide for practical tips.

Average Monthly Rent in Japan for Students, Professionals, and Families (2025)

Tenant Type	Average Monthly Rent in Japan (2025)
Students	¥40,000 – ¥80,000 (INR 22,000–44,000)
Professionals (Expats)	¥90,000 – ¥160,000 (INR 49,500–88,000)
Families	¥160,000 – ¥280,000 (INR 88,000–1.54L)

In Q1 2025, rental yields remained steady in Osaka, declined in Nagoya, and improved in Yokohama compared to the same period last year.

Finding Student Accommodation in Japan

Accommodation in Japan isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially for students. Where you live, how much you pay, and what lifestyle you get will change a lot depending on the city and the type of housing you pick. 

What Housing Choices Do Students Actually Have in Japan?

If you are moving to Japan for studies, you’ll mostly be picking between three main setups. Here’s what you are likely to find:

Housing Option	What It’s Really Like	Who Should Pick It
University Dormitory	Rooms are small but affordable. Facilities are basic. Some include meals.	Good if you want easy access to campus and a tight budget.
Share House	Private room, but shared kitchen, lounge, and sometimes bathrooms. Great for meeting people.	Best if you are open to living with strangers and want a social life.
Private Apartment	More expensive. Full privacy. You handle your own bills, setup, and sometimes the language barrier with landlords.	Good if you plan to stay for over a year or want complete independence.

Student dormitories in Japan for international students usually require early applications, and many run out of spaces months before classes start.

Where Are Students Living in Japan?

• Tokyo: If you want action, Tokyo delivers. Expect higher rents near Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Roppongi. Look at outer areas like Nerima or Suginami if you want cheaper options.
• Kyoto: Packed with universities. Student culture is strong here. Rent is lower than Tokyo, and you find many old-style apartments (tatami floors, sliding doors).
• Osaka: Known for being lively and slightly more affordable. Areas like Tennoji and Osaka Castle Park offer decent apartments for students.
• Fukuoka: Perfect if you want a slower pace. Rent is the lowest among big cities, and public transport is excellent.

The best cities in Japan for affordable student housing also offer better quality apartments for the same price you would pay for a cramped space in central Tokyo.

Looking for financial aid? Explore your options in Scholarships in Japan.

How Much Will You Really Pay for Rent in Japan?

Rent swings wildly based on your city and how flexible you are with location.

Type of Housing	Typical Monthly Rent (2025)	Good to Know
University Dormitory	¥30,000 – ¥60,000 (INR 16,500–33,000)	Some include meals and utilities.
Share House	¥40,000 – ¥70,000 (INR 22,000–39,000)	Bills often extra, community living vibe.
Private Apartment	¥50,000 – ¥90,000 (INR 27,500–49,500)	Key money and deposit can add 2–4 months’ rent upfront.

The cost of living in Japan for expats and students usually feels higher in Tokyo, but lower in cities like Osaka and Fukuoka.

On-Campus vs Private Rentals in Japan: What’s Smarter?

Feature	On-Campus Housing	Private Rentals
Monthly Costs	Lower, flat-rate	Higher, extra bills
Commute	Walk or cycle to class	Sometimes need a train pass
Freedom	Moderate (curfews sometimes)	Full independence
Setup	Arranged by university	You handle agents, paperwork

On-campus dorms are easier to set up, but private apartments offer more freedom, especially if you want to live near expat-friendly neighborhoods in Japan in 2025.

Where Should You Start Looking for Housing in Japan?

You won’t find the best options if you just search “rentals in Japan” randomly. Students use specific websites and housing services because not every landlord rents to foreigners.

Here are a few trusted ones:

• GaijinPot Apartments: Best for English-speaking support when renting an apartment in Japan without a guarantor.
• Sakura House: Share houses all over Tokyo — flexible stays from a month to a year.
• Real Estate Japan: Furnished apartments for rent in Tokyo and Osaka, plus short-term leases.
• UniLife Japan: Specialized in student housing, works closely with universities.
• University Housing Offices: Many top universities in Tokyo and Kyoto offer their own dorm placement help.

Start your housing search at least six months before your course begins — especially if you want a spot in student dormitories or a good share house.

Thinking about which university suits your goals? Here's the list of Best Universities in Japan.

Planning your move? Here's a detailed Study in Japan guide covering courses, culture, and daily life.

Curious about how academics are structured? Check the Education System in Japan.

Accommodation Options for Working Professionals in Japan

Many working professionals in Japan rent studio apartments, corporate housing, or share houses depending on their budget and how long they plan to stay. The right accommodation in Japan can save you hours in commuting and help you settle faster.

Main Rental Choices for Working Professionals in Japan

You will find different types of rentals depending on whether you want privacy, flexibility, or full service.

Rental Option	What to Expect	Ideal For
Studio Apartment (1K/1DK)	Compact living, kitchen area separate or attached, perfect for singles	Young professionals, short-term expats
Corporate Housing	Fully furnished, serviced, shorter lease terms, close to offices	Expats on short-term contracts
Share House	Private room with shared facilities, lower rent, community feel	Fresh graduates, first-time expats

Furnished apartments for rent in Tokyo and Osaka often come with basic furniture and appliances, but always check the contract details before signing.

Best Cities for Professionals to Rent in Japan

Some cities naturally attract working professionals because of better jobs, lifestyle, and access to metro stations:

• Tokyo: Top choice for most expats, but also the most expensive. Best expat-friendly neighborhoods in Japan 2025 include Minato, Meguro, and Shinjuku.
• Yokohama: Close to Tokyo, slightly cheaper, family-friendly, strong international community.
• Osaka: Best for tech, business, and healthcare professionals. Areas like Namba and Umeda are popular.
• Nagoya: Affordable rents, strong manufacturing and automotive industries, growing expat presence.

If commuting matters, picking a place within walking distance to a train or metro station will make a huge difference to your daily routine.

Common Apartment Layouts in Japan

When renting, you’ll come across specific Japanese apartment layout codes. Here’s a quick guide:

Layout Code	Meaning	Who It Suits
1K	1 room + kitchen (separate)	Singles who want simple living
1DK	1 room + dining and kitchen area	Singles or couples who want a bit more space
2LDK	2 bedrooms + living, dining, kitchen	Families, professionals sharing an apartment

A 1DK or 2LDK layout makes sense if you work remotely or plan to stay long-term.

Understand real rent and living expenses in this full Cost of Living in Japan guide.

Rent Range for Professionals in Japan (2025)

The cost of living in Japan for expats and students depends a lot on location, size, and type of apartment.

Apartment Type	Average Monthly Rent (2025)	Notes
1K/Studio Apartment	¥80,000 – ¥140,000 (INR 44,000–77,000)	Tokyo prices are at the higher end
1DK Apartment	¥100,000 – ¥160,000 (INR 55,000–88,000)	Popular among young professionals
2LDK Apartment	¥180,000 – ¥280,000 (INR 99,000–1.54L)	Ideal for families or flat-sharing expats

Monthly rent in Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka for expats can be 15%–20% lower than Tokyo.

What You Should Know About Renting as an Expat in Japan

Renting an apartment in Japan without a guarantor can feel challenging.
Many landlords require:

• A guarantor (someone legally responsible if you miss rent).
• Key money: A non-refundable thank-you fee, usually 1–2 months' rent.
• Security deposit: Refundable if no damage, usually 1–2 months' rent.
• Agent fee: One month's rent, paid to the real estate agency.

The rent deposit and key money system in Japan can push your initial move-in costs to 4–6 times your monthly rent.

That’s why some expats prefer furnished apartments or corporate housing where some of these fees are lower or waived.

Always ask if a guarantor company can be used instead of a personal guarantor — it’s a common solution for foreigners now.

Commuting and Access to Train Stations in Japan

In Japan, living close to a metro or JR train station changes everything.

A 5-minute walk to the station could add ¥10,000–¥20,000 to your monthly rent — but it often saves hours in commute time every week.

If you work in Tokyo, look for locations along:

• Yamanote Line: Best for easy access to major business hubs.
• Chuo Line: Great for living a little further out but still reach offices easily.
• Tokyu and Keio lines: More affordable neighborhoods but well-connected.

Many expats pay a bit more for apartments near stations because commuting by metro or train is a big part of daily life in Japan.

Family Accommodation in Japan: What to Expect

Families move to Japan for work or long-term stays and need housing that offers more than just space. The right accommodation in Japan should give you enough bedrooms, access to good schools, nearby clinics, and safe parks for children. Picking a family-friendly area early sets up a smoother life for everyone.

Best Housing Choices for Families in Japan

Family accommodation in Japan usually includes larger apartments, townhouses, or detached homes. Many families also explore furnished apartments for rent in Tokyo and Osaka that offer quick move-in options.

Housing Type	Key Features	Who It Suits
2LDK/3LDK Apartments	2–3 bedrooms, living and dining areas, near metro stations	Families with young children
Townhouses	Two-floor homes, small garden, private parking	Families wanting more privacy
Detached Homes	Full houses with yards, available mostly in suburbs	Larger families or long-term expats

Detached homes in suburban areas often cost the same as smaller apartments inside Tokyo.

Best Areas for Family Living in Japan

Selecting the right area is crucial when looking at accommodation options for English-speaking expats in Japan. Some areas offer bigger homes, better safety, and easier access to parks and international schools.

• Setagaya (Tokyo): Spacious homes, parks, and excellent schools make it a top family area.
• Yokohama Suburbs: Offer affordable monthly rent compared to central Tokyo and better access to international schools.
• Osaka Suburbs: Places like Suita and Toyonaka balance lower cost with family amenities.

Families choosing expat-friendly neighborhoods in Japan 2025 often find better long-term living experiences.

Average Family Housing Rent in Japan (2025)

Knowing the cost of living in Japan for expats and students is important when planning a move. Family homes in Japan come with a higher cost than student apartments, but offer better space and facilities.

Housing Type	Average Monthly Rent (2025)
2LDK/3LDK Apartment	¥180,000 – ¥300,000 (INR 99,000–1.65L)
Townhouse	¥200,000 – ¥320,000 (INR 1.1L–1.76L)
Detached Home	¥250,000 – ¥400,000 (INR 1.38L–2.2L)

Families find the monthly rent in Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka for expats to be 15%–25% lower compared to Tokyo.

What to Check Besides Rent in Japan

Families moving to Japan should also consider other important factors beyond rent prices.

• Distance to international schools for easier schooling access
• Access to English-speaking clinics and hospitals for emergencies
• Parks and playgrounds nearby for children
• Safe, low-traffic streets for safer outdoor time
• Easy access to metro and bus lines for parents' commutes

Families looking for the best areas for students to live in Tokyo often focus on places like Setagaya, Meguro, and Nerima.

Furnished apartments for rent in Tokyo and Osaka sometimes include packages with furniture, parking, and internet to save setup costs.

Safety and Local Amenities Matter in Japan

Safety always ranks high when selecting family accommodation in Japan. Checking the neighborhood quality gives peace of mind before signing a rental contract.

• Neighborhood watch programs and local support
• Low crime rates in areas like Yokohama suburbs and Setagaya
• Walkable streets for kids to safely play
• Access to daycares, clinics, and child-friendly parks

Families renting an apartment in Japan without a guarantor must also check if buildings allow third-party guarantor companies, which are common for expats today.

Neighborhoods like Toyonaka in Osaka and Minato Mirai in Yokohama remain favorites for families moving to Japan housing options near work and school hubs.

Need a visa for your studies? This Student Visa for Japan guide explains the process clearly.

Planning to work part-time while you study? Here’s a practical guide on Part-Time Jobs in Japan.

Tips for Finding the Best Accommodation in Japan

Accommodation in Japan requires understanding a few basics before signing a lease. Rent, deposits, and guarantor rules work differently compared to other countries.

Do’s

• Check rent costs city by city.
• Apply early for student dormitories in Japan for international students.
• Understand the rent deposit and key money system in Japan.
• Pick furnished apartments for rent in Tokyo and Osaka if you want easy move-in.
• Choose places near metro or JR train stations.
• Use English-speaking agents to avoid paperwork issues when renting an apartment in Japan without a guarantor.

Don’ts

• Do not ignore contract terms.
• Avoid choosing only city-center apartments.
• Do not underestimate upfront costs.
• Avoid last-minute booking if you want the best areas for students to live in Tokyo.

Wondering if Japan is the right choice? This list of Reasons to Study in Japan might help you decide.

Compare your options globally with this guide on Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students.

Looking for affordable destinations? Here’s a list of Cheapest Countries to Study for Indian Students.

How upGrad Abroad Supports Students Moving to Japan

upGrad Abroad helps students secure the right accommodation in Japan faster.

• Personalized advice on moving to Japan housing options for students.
• Lists of trusted platforms for student dormitories in Japan for international students.
• Rent insights for average rent in Tokyo for students 2025 and Osaka.
• Help finding a share house in Japan with flexible terms.
• Support for renting an apartment in Japan without a guarantor.
• Access to accommodation options for English-speaking expats in Japan near universities.

Planning your studies and accommodation in Japan doesn’t have to be complicated. Book a free counseling session to get step-by-step guidance.

Also explore free short courses to strengthen your profile while you prepare for your move.

Conclusion: Is Accommodation in Japan Affordable for Students and Expats?

Accommodation in Japan is affordable with smart planning. Students and expats must prepare for rent and upfront costs.

Pros:

• Many housing types: dormitories, share houses, apartments
• Safe neighborhoods
• Reliable transport and infrastructure

Cons:

• High upfront costs: key money, deposits, agent fees
• Smaller apartments in major cities

Managing the cost of living in Japan for expats and students requires early budgeting.

Final Verdict:

Plan ahead, choose locations wisely, and control upfront costs. Accommodation in Japan becomes easier when you stay prepared.