Average Rental Costs in Tokyo by Ward in 2025

Tokyo’s rental market is dynamic, complex, and ever-evolving. In 2025, average rental prices across the city reflect shifts in demand, urban development, and foreigner-friendly amenities. Whether you’re a digital nomad, expat family, entrepreneur, or student, choosing the right ward in Tokyo can significantly impact your lifestyle and budget.

This guide breaks down average rental prices by ward in 2025, helping you compare neighborhoods and make smart housing decisions.

Summary: Average Monthly Rent (1LDK, 40–50m²)

(Based on 2025 averages from listings and rental platforms)

1. Minato Ward: Luxury and International Life

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥300,000–¥400,000

• Popular Areas: Roppongi, Azabu-Juban, Akasaka, Shirokane

• Who lives here: Diplomats, executives, international families

Minato is the most expensive and foreigner-friendly ward in Tokyo. It’s home to embassies, international schools, luxury condos, and fine dining. Expect concierge apartments, bilingual agents, and proximity to offices and coworking spaces.

Best for: Executives, long-term expats, startup founders

2. Shibuya Ward: Young, Trendy, Creative

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥260,000–¥300,000

• Popular Areas: Daikanyama, Ebisu, Omotesando, Harajuku

• Who lives here: Designers, creators, solo professionals

Shibuya is Tokyo’s culture and fashion capital. While crowded and fast-paced, areas like Yoyogi or Hiroo offer quieter, stylish rentals. Rent is high due to proximity to startups, cafes, and major transport.

Best for: Digital nomads, creatives, social entrepreneurs

️ 3. Chiyoda Ward: Central and Corporate

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥290,000–¥330,000

• Popular Areas: Otemachi, Kanda, Iidabashi

• Who lives here: Lawyers, government staff, high-level professionals

Chiyoda is the heart of Tokyo’s politics and finance. Rentals are limited but high-end. It’s not ideal for families, but professionals with offices in Marunouchi or Kasumigaseki love the short commutes.

Best for: Corporate professionals, short-term consultants

4. Meguro Ward: Stylish & Subtle

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥240,000–¥260,000

• Popular Areas: Nakameguro, Yutenji, Toritsudaigaku

• Who lives here: Young couples, designers, musicians

Meguro blends quiet, leafy streets with creative energy. Rent is slightly more affordable than Shibuya, with spacious and designer-style apartments. It’s popular with mid-range professionals and Japan-savvy expats.

Best for: Quiet lifestyle with access to urban life

5. Setagaya Ward: Space and Suburbia

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥200,000–¥240,000

• Popular Areas: Sangenjaya, Futako-Tamagawa, Yoga, Seijo

• Who lives here: Families, returnee Japanese, teachers

Setagaya is ideal for families. It offers spacious housing, top-rated schools, parks, and child-friendly infrastructure. While farther from the city center, the lifestyle is unbeatable for those seeking calm.

Best for: Families, international school teachers, remote workers

6. Shinagawa Ward: Transport and Business

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥250,000–¥270,000

• Popular Areas: Gotanda, Osaki, Tennozu, Shinagawa Station

• Who lives here: Business travelers, tech professionals

Shinagawa is a major business and transit district with bullet train access to Osaka and Nagoya. While not the trendiest, it’s efficient, clean, and connected. Rentals near the bay offer modern views.

Best for: Tech workers, regional sales, startup operators

7. Taito Ward: Old Tokyo Charm

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥180,000–¥200,000

• Popular Areas: Asakusa, Ueno, Kuramae

• Who lives here: Artists, students, retirees

Taito is full of temples, galleries, and local festivals. Rentals tend to be older but affordable. While not modern or flashy, it offers character and tradition in every street.

Best for: Cultural explorers, artists, budget travelers

8. Arakawa Ward: Low-Key Living

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥170,000–¥190,000

• Popular Areas: Machiya, Nishi-Nippori

• Who lives here: Teachers, factory workers, elder locals

Arakawa offers a slower pace of life, low prices, and lots of mom-and-pop shops. Not much English support, but locals are kind and the vibe is friendly. Easy access to the Joban and Nippori lines.

Best for: Budget residents who want a taste of old Tokyo

9. Nakano Ward: Balanced and Convenient

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥200,000–¥220,000

• Popular Areas: Nakano, Koenji, Nogata

• Who lives here: Young couples, artists, foreign students

Nakano is just west of Shinjuku and mixes quiet streets with an indie vibe. It’s affordable, accessible, and full of secondhand shops, ramen bars, and music venues.

Best for: Freelancers, first-time Tokyo renters

10. Itabashi Ward: Underrated and Affordable

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥160,000–¥180,000

• Popular Areas: Oyama, Tokiwadai

• Who lives here: Students, local families, commuters

If you’re on a tight budget but want to stay inside the Yamanote Line loop, Itabashi is a hidden gem. It’s quiet, practical, and has easy access to Ikebukuro.

Best for: Students, language learners, quiet commuters

️ 11. Adachi Ward: Tokyo’s Most Affordable

• Average Rent (1LDK): ¥150,000–¥170,000

• Popular Areas: Kitasenju, Ayase

• Who lives here: Blue-collar workers, newcomers, seniors

Adachi is Tokyo’s cheapest ward. While it has a rougher reputation historically, the area has improved with new infrastructure and residential projects. Commutes are longer, but rent is low.

Best for: Long-stay budget residents, part-time workers

Tips for Choosing the Right Ward

1. Commuting matters – Consider where you work or study

2. Lifestyle over location – Do you prefer parks or nightlife?

3. Language comfort – Minato and Shibuya offer more English services

4. Family vs solo – Setagaya suits families; Shibuya suits singles

5. Rent wisely – Keep rent below 30–35% of monthly income

Final Thoughts

Renting in Tokyo isn’t just about choosing the cheapest apartment—it’s about finding the right ward that fits your lifestyle, budget, and goals. While areas like Minato and Chiyoda offer luxury and prestige, places like Arakawa and Adachi can give you breathing room for your budget.

Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or exploring Japan as a student, Tokyo has a neighborhood that matches your journey in 2025.