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Which prefectures have the cheapest rent in Japan? Compare rent prices by region

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Interior of a studio apartment in Japan

I want to live in Japan!" the market rent in Japan is a point of concern for those who are thinking "I want to live in Japan! The national rent rate for a studio apartment is 50,984 yen (as of 2022), but it varies by region.

This article summarizes average rent prices in Japan.

In addition, since a car may be required in some areas, we also recommend car leasing at the end of this section.

If you are interested in knowing the rent rates in the prefecture or region where you want to live, or the areas where rent is inexpensive, please refer to this page.

*Price quotes for one-room apartments.

◆If you want to know the cost of living alone in Tokyo, check out the following article!
How much does it cost to live alone in Tokyo? Detailed explanation of rent, utilities, etc.

Goandup Picks Click here for recommended articles!

Hokkaido Rent Rates

The rent for a one-room apartment in Hokkaido isApproximately 43,700 yen.It is.

Hokkaido is characterized by its extremely large area. You will be able to spend your time spontaneously in a place rich in nature.
However, heating is essential in most areas in winter, as there is a lot of snow and temperatures drop significantly. A car will also be needed outside of Sapporo.

  • heating bill
  • Car maintenance costs
  • parking fee

Keep in mind that you may need to do things such as the following before you proceed with your property search.

Rents in Tohoku region (Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima)

The rent for a one-room apartment in the Tohoku region isApproximately ¥41,900,000.It is.

The rent rates for a studio apartment in a typical prefecture in the region are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Aomori prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 45,000 yen
Akita prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 359,000 yen
Iwate prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 3.83 million yen
Miyagi prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 4.89 million yen
Yamagata prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 39,000 yen
Fukushima prefecture (Tohoku area)Approx. 4.45 million yen

The prefectures with the highest rent prices in the Tohoku region areMiyagi prefecture (Tohoku area)(about ¥4.89 million), and the cheapest province isAkita prefecture (Tohoku area)(approximately $359,000).

The Tohoku region is characterized by the fact that used houses and other properties are often available for rent.

I want a bigger house."
I want to live in an old house."
I'm on a budget."

If so, you may want to consider a house.

However, as in Hokkaido, temperatures drop significantly in winter in most areas. Also, as in Hokkaido, a car will be necessary outside of urban areas.

  • heating bill
  • Car maintenance costs
  • parking fee

We recommend that you proceed with your property search with an eye to the fact that you may need to

Rent in the Tokyo metropolitan area (1 Tokyo and 3 prefectures)

The market rent for a studio in the Tokyo metropolitan area (Tokyo and 3 prefectures) isApproximately ¥59,200,000.It is.

The rent rates for studio apartments by metropolitan area and prefecture are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Tokyo Metropolitan areaApprox. 68,600,000 yen
Kanagawa prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 59,700,000 yen
Saitama prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 53,700,000 yen
Chiba prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 5.49 million yen

Tokyo is the most expensive, but tends to become cheaper as one leaves the 23 wards.

If you want to live in Tokyo but keep rent low, try looking for apartments in cities and towns outside the 23 wards, such as Tama City, Tachikawa City, and Komae City.

Perhaps due to the fact that Kanagawa Prefecture has many tourist attractions, rent prices are higher than those in Saitama and Chiba Prefectures.

◆If you want to know the areas in Tokyo where rent is cheap, check out the following articles!
Where is the cheapest rent in Tokyo? Here are some recommended areas!

Rents in the Kanto region (excluding the Tokyo metropolitan area) 

The rent for a one-room apartment in the Kanto region, excluding the Tokyo metropolitan area, isApproximately ¥41,100,000.It is.

The rent rates for studio apartments by prefecture are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Ibaraki prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 43,400,000 yen
Tochigi prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 40,900,000 yen
Gunma prefecture (Kantou area)Approx. 39,100,000 yen

Prefectural capitals are often prosperous and many will have good shopping and other amenities. Also, depending on location and public transportation, some locations may be within commuting distance of Tokyo.

This is a good place for those who want to commute to Tokyo but keep rent low.

Rent in Tokai area (Aichi, Shizuoka, Gifu, Mie)

The rent for a studio room in the Tokai region isApproximately ¥47,900,000.It is.

The rent rates for one-room apartments in the four Tokai prefectures are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Shizuoka prefecture (Chuubu area)Approx. 49,000 yen
Aichi prefecture (Chuubu area)Approx. 52,300,000 yen
Gifu prefecture (Chuubu area)Approx. 46,000 yen
Mie prefecture (Kinki area)Approx. 4.45 million yen

The Tokai region is characterized by a well-developed transportation infrastructure and relatively convenient access to Tokyo and Osaka. In urban areas, a car is often not necessary due to convenient transportation, but in rural areas, public transportation is limited in some places, especially if you live in the suburbs or mountainous areas.

The Tokai region is also known as a region with many employment opportunities, as it is home to major companies in the automotive and manufacturing industries.

Recommended for those seeking financial stability.

Koshinetsu and Hokuriku regions (Yamanashi, Nagano, Niigata, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui) 

The market rent for a studio in the Koshinetsu and Hokuriku regions isApproximately ¥39,600,000.It is.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Yamanashi prefecture (Chuubu area)Approx. 42,300,000 yen
Nagano prefecture (Chuubu area)Approx. 43,700,000 yen
Niigata prefecture (Hokuriku area)Approx. 47,000 yen
Toyama prefecture (Hokuriku area)Approx. 32,800,000 yen
Ishikawa prefecture (Hokuriku area)Approx. 331,000 yen
Fukui prefecture (Hokuriku area)Approx. 38,700,000 yen

The prefectures with the highest rent prices in the Koshinetsu and Hokuriku regions areNiigata prefecture (Hokuriku area)(about 47,000 yen), and the cheapest province isToyama prefecture (Hokuriku area)(approximately $328,000).

The Koshinetsu and Hokuriku regions are characterized by the following

  • Many people work for local companies.
  • Many tourist attractions
  • Often snowy.

In addition to rent,

  • heating bill
  • Car maintenance costs
  • parking fee

It is a good idea to proceed with your property search with an eye to the fact that you may need to

Rents in Kansai area (Osaka, Hyogo, Kyoto, Shiga, Nara, Wakayama)

The rent for a one-room apartment in the Kansai region isApproximately ¥44,000.It is.

The rent rates for one-room apartments in representative prefectures in the Kansai region are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Osaka (metropolitan area)Approx. 56,600,000 yen
Hyogo prefecture (Kinki area) (Hyougo)Approx. 53,600,000 yen
Kyoto (metropolitan area)Approx. 53,900,000 yen
Shiga prefecture (Kinki area)Approx. 36,900,000 yen
Nara prefecture (Kinki area)Approx. 316,600,000 yen
Wakayama prefecture (Kinki area)Approx. 31,500,000 yen

The highest rent prices in the Kansai region areOsaka (metropolitan area)(about ¥56,600,000), and the cheapest province isWakayama prefecture (Kinki area)(approx. 4.11 million yen).

Osaka and Kyoto are famous areas where many people visit for sightseeing. On the other hand, rent is very cheap in some areas.

It is necessary to check on security and other factors, but it is a recommended area to keep rent low. If you are in an urban area, you will not need to own a car.

Chugoku area (Okayama, Hiroshima, Tottori, Shimane, Yamaguchi)

The rent for a studio in the Chugoku region isApproximately 40,200 yen.It is.

The rent rates for one-room apartments in typical prefectures in the Chugoku region are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Hiroshima prefecture (Chuugoku area)Approx. 47,000 yen
Okayama prefecture (Chuugoku area)Approx. 46,000 yen
Tottori prefecture (Chuugoku area)Approx. 36,100,000 yen
Shimane prefecture (Chuugoku area)Approx. 3.49 million yen
Yamaguchi prefecture (Chuugoku area)Approx. 3.72 million yen

The prefectures with the highest rent prices in the Chugoku region areHiroshima prefecture (Chuugoku area)(about 47,000 yen), and the cheapest province isShimane prefecture (Chuugoku area)(approx. 3.49 million yen).

The Chugoku region is blessed with a mild and comfortable climate. It is also considered a highly livable region with beautiful natural scenery in all four seasons and many historical sites and tourist attractions.

However, since the Chugoku region is also considered to be a region where a car is essential, look for rental properties with car maintenance and parking costs in mind.

Rent in Shikoku area (Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, Tokushima)

The rent for a one-room apartment in the Shikoku region isApproximately ¥41,600,000.It is.

The rent rates for one-room apartments in the four prefectures of Shikoku are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Kagawa prefecture (Shikoku)Approx. 41,000 yen
Tokushima prefecture (Shikoku)Approx. 42,000 yen
Ehime prefecture (Shikoku)Approx. 39,000 yen
Kouchi (Kochi) prefecture (Shikoku)Approx. 43,000 yen

The Shikoku region has many places where agriculture and tourism thrive, and where you can feel the grandeur of nature and the warmth of people. 4 prefectures are surrounded by the sea, and the population is relatively small, so a car will always be necessary.

In addition, since there are no large cities in the center of the Shikoku region, you can enjoy a tranquil lifestyle and enjoy the ease of living because of the abundance of gastronomic delicacies.

Rent in Kyushu area (Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, Kagoshima)

The rent for a one-room apartment in the Kyushu region isApproximately $399,900.It is.

The rent rates for one-room apartments in typical prefectures in the Kyushu region are as follows.

administrative divisions of Japan: Tokyo-to, Hokkai-do, Osaka-fu and Kyoto-fuRental rate for a studio room
Fukuoka prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 47,200,000 yen
Saga prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 36,700,000 yen
Nagasaki prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 39,100,000 yen
Kumamoto prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 3.72 million yen
Oita prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 3.84 million yen
Miyazaki prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 44,800,000 yen
Kagoshima prefecture (Kyushu)Approx. 359,000 yen

The Kyushu region is known for its rich natural environment, historical tourist attractions, and hot springs, attracting many tourists from Japan and abroad.

With rent prices lower than the national average and a relatively low cost of living, this is a recommended area to live in Japan to save on rent.

However, due to the large land area and limited development of public transportation, possession of a car is a must.

Rent in Okinawa Prefecture

The rent for a studio room in Okinawa Prefecture isApproximately ¥45,300,000.It is.

As in the Tohoku region, the area is characterized by the fact that used houses and other properties are often available for rent.

I want a bigger house."
I want to live in an old house."
I'm on a budget."

If so, you may consider a house.

Okinawa is known for its mild climate and abundant nature, and although it is warm throughout the year, high temperatures are common, especially in the summer. In addition, the region is frequently hit by typhoons, with strong winds and heavy rainfall several times a year, so it is important to select durable housing.

Public transportation, such as the monorail, is available, but outside of urban areas, a car will be essential.

  • cooling costs
  • Car maintenance costs
  • parking fee
  • House repair expenses

We recommend that you proceed with your property search with an eye to the fact that you may need to

Car leasing is also recommended!

I have introduced you to the rent market, and in some areas, a car may be a necessity. Having your own car is tempting, but before you buy a car, why not consider a car lease?

  1. Initial cost reduction:No large initial investment is required to purchase a car. For a fixed monthly fee, you have access to a state-of-the-art vehicle.
  2. No maintenance required:With a car lease, you can enjoy your car with peace of mind because the leasing company is responsible for regular inspections and maintenance.
  3. Flexibility:Leasing is ideal if your stay in Japan is short or if you are considering a future move. You can easily return the car at the end of the contract period.
  4. Latest Technology:If you choose a car lease, you will always experience the latest car technology and features.

Recommended Car Leasing

  •  nicely
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    • New cars are available from 5,500 yen per month
    • Industry's top class number of "ready-to-deliver" vehicles: 168 units handled
    • Receive a new car from the comfort of your home.
    • Official site:Flat-rate Nikonori Pack for new car leasing
  • KINTO
    • You can have a new TOYOTA car at a fixed monthly rate.
    • Two plans to suit your needs
      • Easy to start, no initial cost plan and easy and flexible cancellation fee free plan
    • All necessary expenses such as automobile tax and optional insurance are included.
  • reasonable
    • Faster delivery of cars than anywhere else.
    • Latest vehicles can be leased from 6,600 yen per month
    • Lowest lease rates in the nation, including all inspections and taxes
  • SOMPO de Ride
    • You can choose not only domestic cars but also imported cars.
      • Imported cars are the largest in Japan with approximately 300 models.
    • A wide range of maintenance plans
    • Full range of contract lengths available for short and long term
    • Official site:Subscribe to the car [SOMPO de nairu (Sompo de ride)].

Enjoy comfortable and economical transportation in Japan!

Useful information and support for living in Japan

Living in Japan is fascinating, but it is not uncommon to face many challenges due to language barriers and cultural differences. For example, you may encounter difficulties in all aspects of life, from using keigo (honorific expressions) in everyday and business situations, to difficulties in finding housing, using public services, preparing for the JLPT exam, and even meeting new friends and loved ones.

At such times, Goandup Salon will be your reliable partner!

Our community provides support and information to help foreign residents in Japan to make their life in Japan richer and more comfortable.

  • Japanese Language Studywill meet the needs of all levels, from daily conversation to the use of keigo in business situations, to efficient Japanese language learning methods and preparation for the JLPT exam.
  • livingaspect of the program provides concrete advice and information on how to establish a foundation for living in Japan, including explanations of Japanese culture and rules, finding housing, and how to contract public services and living infrastructure.
  • Jobs & CareersRegarding the "what if" section, we can help you find a job, change jobs, and understand Japanese business etiquette and workplace culture, which are key to a successful career in the workplace.

If you have any questions or concerns about life in Japan,Goandup Salon.Let's solve your problem in the following way! We will wholeheartedly support you to make your life in Japan smoother and more enjoyable.

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summary

The following table shows rent prices by region and in Japan.

Here is a summary of what we have so far.

  • The lowest one-room rent in Japan is in Oita Prefecture (approx. 3.84 million yen), while the highest is in Tokyo (approx. 6.86 million yen)
  • Even in prefectures with high market prices and average rents, some places have lower prices.
  • In addition to rent, consider expenses related to utilities and vehicles (purchase, maintenance, parking).

In order to enjoy life in a place you love, you need to know the area well.

I hope this article will help you to have a pleasant life in Japan.

Reference:National Rental Management Business Association| National Rent Trends ,SUUMO] Nationwide rent and market rent information


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