How Much Is Rent in Tokyo vs Osaka? 2025 Housing Comparison

Tokyo and Osaka are Japan’s two largest urban hubs – but how do their housing costs stack up? In this guide, we compare the average monthly rent in Tokyo vs Osaka and explore why prices differ between these prefectures. You will learn typical rent in yen for apartments of various sizes, how living expenses vary in these major cities, and what it means for foreigners living in Japan’s most expensive cities.

Key Takeaways:

1. Tokyo’s rent is highest in Japan: Tokyo has the priciest housing of all 47 prefectures, with an average monthly rent around ¥73,000–¥78,000 – roughly 18% higher than Osaka’s average (~¥62,000). In fact, central Tokyo rents can be nearly double those in central Osaka.
2. Osaka offers more space for your yen: Housing in Osaka is generally more affordable and spacious. For example, a studio (1R) apartment in downtown Tokyo (e.g. Shinjuku) averages about ¥73,400, while a comparable unit in downtown Osaka (Umeda) is around ¥61,900. Larger family apartments show an even bigger gap in price.
3. Overall cost of living is lower in Osaka: Outside of rent, day-to-day expenses like dining and transportation tend to be 10–20% cheaper in Osaka than in Tokyo. Tokyo is consistently ranked as the most expensive city in Japan, so expats on a budget may find Osaka (or nearby cities like Kyoto) a more cost-effective choice for living in Japan.

Why Tokyo and Osaka Have Different Rents

Rent in Japan varies widely by region. Tokyo’s average rent is the highest among all 47 prefectures. Surveys show that the nationwide average is about ¥55,700 per month, whereas Tokyo’s average is around ¥81,000 – roughly 1.5× the national average. (By comparison, the lowest prefecture, Tottori, is only ~¥43,800, about 60% of Tokyo’s level.) Tokyo’s dominance in housing cost reflects its massive population and economic gravity. In fact, Tokyo’s rent levels rank among the top 10 globally.

Osaka, Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area, also has high housing costs but notably less than Tokyo. Recent data indicates Osaka’s average monthly rent is around ¥62,000, placing it third-highest nationally (after Tokyo and Kanagawa). This means Osaka’s overall rent level is roughly 80–85% of Tokyo’s on average. Kyoto, another major city, is also among the top five most expensive prefectures for rent, though its averages still fall below Osaka’s in many surveys. For context, these three urban prefectures (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) all have far higher rents than rural areas of Japan.

Several factors drive Tokyo’s price premium. Tokyo’s 23 wards form the country’s political and economic center, attracting millions of workers – about 9.5 million people live in the 23 wards alone. Demand for housing is intense, and space is at a premium. Land values in Tokyo can be 3–4 times higher than in Osaka, which translates to higher rents. Additionally, average incomes are higher in Tokyo (e.g. roughly ¥4.55 million annual vs ¥3.97 million in Osaka), allowing landlords to charge more. Osaka is a major city as well, but it has a smaller population and a slightly slower economic pace, resulting in rents that are high by national standards but still noticeably lower than Tokyo’s.

Cost of living differences go beyond just rent. Government statistics confirm that Tokyo’s overall living expenses are the highest in Japan, outpacing Osaka in categories like transportation, dining, and entertainment. Osaka, known for its more relaxed culture and affordable street food, generally lets your yen stretch further day-to-day. For example, eating out or grocery shopping tends to be a bit cheaper in Osaka than in Tokyo. Public transportation is excellent in both cities, but Tokyo’s extensive rail network means you can live car-free more easily – a benefit, since owning a car (parking, insurance, fuel) can add significant cost. In Osaka, many urban residents also rely on trains, though those in outer suburbs might use cars more. Overall, expats will find that Tokyo and Osaka tend to be more expensive than smaller Japanese cities, yet Tokyo remains the benchmark for high living costs in Japan.

(Data source: Japan Housing and Land Survey, Statistics Bureau – see Tokyo Gov stats for official figures.)

Tokyo vs Osaka: Rent by the Numbers

Understanding the rent difference between Tokyo and Osaka starts with looking at typical apartment rents in each city’s core areas. Let’s compare comparable neighborhoods: for instance, Shinjuku in central Tokyo versus Umeda (Osaka’s Kita ward). These are both busy downtown hubs. In Shinjuku Ward, the average rent for a one-room (studio) apartment is about ¥73,400 per month, whereas in Osaka’s Kita Ward, a similar one-room averages ¥61,900 per month. That means even at the small “starter apartment” level, central Tokyo is around ¥10,000–¥12,000 more expensive each month.

As apartments get larger, the gap widens. A typical 1LDK (one-bedroom with living/dining/kitchen) in Shinjuku runs around ¥151,600, versus about ¥103,200 in Osaka’s Umeda. For a family-sized 3LDK, Shinjuku’s average is a whopping ¥264,200, compared to ¥146,500 in central Osaka. In other words, a large three-bedroom in downtown Tokyo can cost nearly double what it would in downtown Osaka. This illustrates a key point: Tokyo’s rent premium grows for larger living spaces. Many families find they pay substantially more to get equivalent space in Tokyo, so some opt for smaller units or longer commutes from cheaper areas.

Why exactly is Tokyo so much pricier? It boils down to supply and demand. Tokyo’s metropolitan area holds around 37 million people, and space in the city center is limited. Developers build many studio and 1K (one-room + tiny kitchen) units to maximize unit count, and these small apartments still command high prices due to location. Osaka, while dense, has a bit more space relative to its population and historically lower land prices. Renters in Osaka often enjoy slightly larger floor plans for the same budget. For example, ¥80,000 a month might rent a modest 1LDK in Osaka, but in central Tokyo ¥80k might only afford a small 1K studio in an older building. Essentially, the price per square meter is higher in Tokyo – one survey of rental condominiums found Tokyo around ¥3,500 per m² versus about ¥2,800 per m² in Osaka.

Another factor is neighborhood variance. Tokyo is a patchwork of 23 wards, ranging from ultra-expensive areas like Minato or Shibuya Ward to relatively cheaper outskirts. Osaka’s rental market also varies across its 24 wards, but the range between the priciest ward and the cheapest ward is smaller than in Tokyo. In Tokyo’s top wards (e.g. Minato, Chiyoda), average rents exceed ¥200,000 for family units, whereas Osaka’s most expensive ward (Chuo Ward) is around ¥127,000. Tokyo contains both the highest highs and more moderate areas, but on average it skews high. Osaka’s rent spectrum is a bit more uniform in comparison.

In summary, the process of comparing Tokyo and Osaka rents reveals a consistent story: Tokyo tends to be about 20–25% more expensive in general, and that gap can increase for larger or more central properties. For an expat deciding where to live, this could mean paying a premium for Tokyo’s global-city buzz and convenience, or saving money by choosing Osaka’s more laid-back urban environment. Both cities offer a range of options, but budgeting differently is crucial depending on which city (and which neighborhood) you choose.

Apartment Type	Area	Average Rent (Tokyo)	Average Rent (Osaka)	Difference
1R (studio)	Central (Shinjuku vs Kita)	¥73,400	¥61,900	¥11,500 more in Tokyo
1LDK	Central (Shinjuku vs Umeda)	¥151,600	¥103,200	¥48,400 more in Tokyo
3LDK	Central (Shinjuku vs Umeda)	¥264,200	¥146,500	¥117,700 more in Tokyo
Price per m²	Average across city	¥3,500	¥2,800	¥700 more in Tokyo

Cost Breakdown

To put the numbers in perspective, here is a quick data breakdown of average monthly rents as of the latest surveys:

Location	Average Rent (¥/month)	Rank (Out of 47 Prefectures)
Tokyo (prefecture)	¥78,600 (Tokyo 23 wards & suburbs)	1st (Highest)
Osaka (prefecture)	¥62,700 (Osaka City & surrounds)	3rd
Kyoto (prefecture)	¥52,800–¥55,000 (est.) (Kyoto City area)	~4th–5th
Tottori (prefecture)	¥43,800 (lowest in Japan)	47th (Lowest)

(Tokyo and Osaka figures above are from mid-2024 contract-based data; Kyoto is estimated from recent regional surveys.)

As shown, Tokyo tops the list with an average around ¥75k–¥80k per month, while Osaka averages in the low ¥60k range. These are broad averages encompassing all apartment sizes and ages. Kyoto, for comparison, is slightly above ¥50k on average – still expensive nationwide, but notably cheaper than Osaka. On the opposite end, the least expensive prefectures (like Tottori) average under ¥45k, reflecting how rural areas in Japan have very low housing costs.

It is important to note that “average rent” can be calculated in different ways. The figures above include all types of rentals (from studios to large homes) and both new and older buildings. In practice, rent also depends on the apartment’s size (floor area), age, and distance from city center. For example, per-square-meter costs are much higher in Tokyo – meaning you get fewer square meters of living space for the same rent budget than you would in Osaka. A newer high-rise apartment in Tokyo will skew much higher than the average, while an older 1K unit in suburban Osaka might be far below Osaka’s average.

That said, the data makes the overall trend clear: Tokyo is the most expensive place to rent in Japan, and Osaka typically ranks 2nd or 3rd. Even other major cities like Yokohama, Saitama, Chiba, Nagoya, Kyoto, Kobe, and Fukuoka fall below Tokyo/Osaka rent levels. This is valuable for expats to understand – if you choose to live in Tokyo, budget for a substantially higher housing expense than if you settle in most other cities in Japan. Osaka offers a bit of relief in rent costs while still providing a big-city experience.

Area/Scenario Comparison

Let’s dig deeper by comparing specific scenarios and areas in Tokyo vs Osaka. Housing costs can vary dramatically depending on location and living situation. Below are several comparisons to illustrate how rents differ:

Central Tokyo vs Central Osaka

If you want to live in the heart of the action, be prepared to pay a premium in either city – but especially in Tokyo. In the city center of Tokyo (e.g. Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato wards), rents are sky-high. We saw that a one-room in Shinjuku averages ¥73,000+, and premium districts like Minato or Chiyoda average around ¥280,000 for upscale 2–3LDK apartments. Osaka’s downtown core (e.g. Chuo, Kita, Nishi wards around Umeda and Namba) is expensive too, but more moderate. A one-room in Osaka’s Kita Ward is about ¥62,000, and the priciest Osaka ward (Chuo) averages ~¥127,000 for a family-sized apartment. Essentially, central Tokyo housing can cost nearly double central Osaka’s for larger units, and roughly 20–30% more for small units.

What do you get for these prices? In Tokyo’s center, often a very compact space – for example, 20–25 m² studios are common for singles. In Osaka’s center, apartments tend to be a bit larger on average for the same price, perhaps 25–30 m² for a studio. Both cities’ downtowns are extremely convenient (packed with train stations, shops, offices, and restaurants), so you are paying for location above all. Tokyo’s central wards, however, have a level of global business activity and prestige (and higher salaries) that allow landlords to charge more. Expats who work in Tokyo’s city center should budget accordingly, or consider living just outside the most expensive wards to save money. In Osaka, living right downtown is more attainable on a modest budget, though still costlier than suburban areas.

Suburban and Surrounding Areas

Not everyone lives in the urban core. Many people, especially families, choose the suburbs or surrounding prefectures to get more space for less rent. This is where Osaka can shine in affordability. For instance, living in Tokyo’s surrounding prefectures (like Saitama, Chiba, or Kanagawa) generally costs less than living in Tokyo proper – often by 10-30% lower rent for similar space. A commuter town in Chiba or Saitama might offer a 2LDK for ¥80,000 that would cost ¥120,000 in central Tokyo. However, you’d spend more time (and money) on train commuting. In Osaka’s case, the surrounding areas (such as Hyogo, Nara, or Shiga prefectures) also offer cheaper rents. For example, an apartment in Nara or Sakai (Osaka’s suburb city) could be significantly cheaper than one in Osaka city.

One key difference: Tokyo’s metropolitan sprawl is larger, so suburbs extend far out. You can live in greater Tokyo (for example, in western Tokyo suburbs like Hachioji or in Kanagawa’s Yokohama city) and pay much less than in the 23 wards. Osaka’s metro area is more compact; cities like Kobe (Hyogo) or Nara City are technically separate cities but function as the Osaka region and have moderate rents. In both cases, distance from the city center lowers rent. If you are open to a 30–60 minute train ride, you can find modern, spacious apartments in outlying towns for a fraction of central city rent. Do note that in more rural areas outside the cities, a car may become necessary for convenience (public transit is less dense there). The need for a car can add to living costs, so there is a trade-off: Tokyo and Osaka’s excellent train networks mean you can live without owning a car, whereas in the countryside housing is cheap but you’ll likely incur vehicle expenses.

Apartment Size and Layout Differences

Housing layouts in Tokyo vs Osaka also influence rent differences. Tokyo has an abundance of tiny apartments geared toward single professionals – often labeled 1R (one room) or 1K (one room plus a small kitchen area). These can be under 20 m² and are the most affordable option in Tokyo (though “affordable” is relative – a 1K in central Tokyo might still cost ¥70,000). Osaka has small apartments too, but slightly larger average unit sizes. For example, a 1LDK in Osaka might have a bit more room or separate spaces compared to an equivalently priced 1LDK in Tokyo. The earlier data showed how a 3LDK (3-bedroom) in Tokyo (Shinjuku) cost ¥264k vs ¥146k in Osaka. Part of this huge gap is that Tokyo’s 3LDK units tend to be luxury high-rises or located in prime districts, whereas Osaka’s 3LDKs can include more mid-range family apartments.

In terms of per square meter cost, Tokyo leads. A practical way to compare is rent per tatami mat (a common Japanese measure of floor area, about 1.65 m²). Official statistics indicate Tokyo’s rent per tatami is highest in the nation. This means Tokyo apartments, at equivalent floor areas, are more expensive. Consequently, many Tokyo residents sacrifice space to save money – single occupants often live in studios or one-bedrooms, and even couples might manage in 1LDK units in the city. In Osaka, you might afford a 2LDK for the same price that would only get you a 1LDK in Tokyo. Families in Osaka are more likely to rent larger apartments or even small houses, whereas Tokyo families might live in condos or consider moving to suburbs for more room.

One quirk to note is that Osaka’s rent for larger apartments is relatively much lower than Tokyo’s. As mentioned, a 3LDK in Tokyo’s center can be nearly double the rent of a 1R, whereas in Osaka the multiple is smaller (perhaps 2.5× the 1R rent). This suggests that in Tokyo, space (extra rooms) comes at a hefty premium – luxury of size is expensive. In Osaka, larger apartments, while more expensive than studios, remain within reach for many middle-class families. This is good news if you are moving with a family: housing a family in Tokyo will be costly unless you live far out, whereas in Osaka you might find a family-sized apartment closer to the city without utterly breaking the bank.

Tokyo vs Osaka vs Kyoto

Many expats considering Western Japan ask: what about Kyoto? Kyoto is a popular city (especially for students, academics, and those who love its cultural atmosphere) and is relatively close to Osaka. In terms of rent, Kyoto is cheaper than both Tokyo and Osaka, though closer to Osaka’s level. Kyoto City’s average rent is around ¥50,000–¥60,000 per month depending on the survey. That puts it just a notch below Osaka’s ¥60k+ average. For example, a one-bedroom in central Kyoto might be ¥60,000, whereas in Osaka it might be ¥65,000 and Tokyo ¥80,000 for similar specs. Kyoto has fewer high-rise developments and a smaller economic base, which keeps rents more modest.

However, Kyoto’s housing stock also includes many older wooden houses or smaller units, so modern apartments can still command high prices in prime areas. Neighborhood matters: living near Kyoto University or in downtown Kyoto will cost more than the outskirts. Compared to Tokyo, Kyoto’s lifestyle is more relaxed and space is somewhat more affordable – but you won’t find the same breadth of job opportunities as Tokyo. Some expats choose Osaka over Kyoto for this reason (and simply commute to Kyoto for visits or work via train, which is only ~30 minutes). Osaka strikes a middle ground: larger and more job-rich than Kyoto, but cheaper and more casual in feel than Tokyo.

In summary, Tokyo vs Osaka vs Kyoto represents a spectrum. Tokyo = highest cost, biggest city, fast-paced life. Osaka = moderate cost (20% lower rent than Tokyo), very urban but a bit more laid-back and friendly. Kyoto = lower cost, smaller city, rich in culture but quieter in terms of industry. Your choice may depend on whether budget or big-city opportunities are your priority. Some expats even start in Osaka or Kyoto to save money, then move to Tokyo later if needed for career reasons or personal preference.

Expert Tips or Common Mistakes

When navigating rent in Tokyo and Osaka, keep these expert tips in mind (and avoid common pitfalls):

• Budget for Upfront Costs: Do not assume you only need the first month’s rent. In Japan, initial move-in costs are steep in both cities. Tokyo rentals typically require a security deposit (shikikin) and often “key money” (reikin, a non-refundable fee), plus an agent fee, totaling several months’ rent upfront. In Osaka and the Kansai region, it’s common to have a “guarantee money” (hoshōkin) system instead of key money. Part of this guarantee money will be kept by the landlord (similar to a preset cleaning fee) when you move out. Mistake to avoid: not budgeting an extra 3–5 months’ rent for these fees. Always ask for a breakdown of move-in costs and note the differences in Tokyo vs Osaka practices.

• Leverage Surrounding Areas: If Tokyo’s 23 wards are out of your price range, consider living just outside the city. Many expats choose places like Chiba, Saitama, or Kanagawa (for Tokyo workers) or Hyogo, Kyoto, or Nara (for Osaka workers) to save on rent. These areas have lower averages and good train links. Just be mindful of commute costs and time. A common mistake is focusing only on rent and then getting hit with high train pass costs or long commute times. Balance your housing savings with transportation convenience – sometimes paying ¥10,000 more in rent to live closer can be worth it.

• Consider Apartment Age and Style: Japanese rental listings often include the building age. A 30-year-old apartment in Tokyo might rent for much less than a 5-year-old one in the same location. Osaka similarly has newer vs older buildings disparity. If you are on a budget, target slightly older buildings which are often very well-maintained but significantly cheaper in rent. Also, note that high-rise towers with amenities (gym, concierge) are prevalent in Tokyo and push rents up. In Osaka, there are fewer luxury towers; a lot of housing is low- or mid-rise. Expats sometimes mistake newness for quality – but an older concrete building might still be perfectly comfortable. Decide what you can compromise on (age, size, or location) to meet your budget.

• Prepare Documentation (Especially for Foreigners): One mistake foreign renters make is underestimating the application requirements. In Tokyo and Osaka alike, landlords may require a guarantor (or use a guarantor company), proof of income, residence card, etc. Tokyo landlords, in the busiest market, can be pickier – some still hesitate to rent to foreigners due to communication concerns. Osaka is known to be friendly, but you should still have all papers in order. It can help to work with a real estate agent experienced in helping expats Renting in Japan. They can guide you to foreigner-friendly properties and ensure your application is strong. Being prepared will set you apart in these competitive rental markets.

• Negotiate and Compare: Generally, advertised rents are fixed, but sometimes you can negotiate, especially in Osaka or if a unit has been vacant for a while. In Tokyo’s hot market, negotiation is less common (properties get snatched up quickly at asking price). However, you could negotiate things like the start date, minor repairs, or occasionally a small rent reduction if you have a good profile. Always compare similar listings – the same budget might get you a larger place one train stop further away. Avoid the mistake of rushing into the first apartment you see. Compare Tokyo vs Osaka standards too: what might be a “small” apartment in Osaka could be considered reasonably sized in Tokyo. Adjust your expectations and do not be afraid to ask questions about local norms.

FAQ

Q: Is Tokyo more expensive to live in than Osaka?

A: Yes. Tokyo is the most expensive city in Japan to live in, and that includes rent as well as other living costs. On average, rent in Tokyo is about 20% higher than in Osaka for similar apartments. Everything from groceries to entertainment can also cost a bit more in Tokyo. Osaka is generally cheaper – for example, eating out and public transport are slightly more affordable in Osaka. Overall, if you are on a tighter budget, you will find Osaka (and other cities) easier on the wallet than Tokyo. Tokyo’s higher salaries and larger job market often offset the costs for those who move there, but purely in terms of expenses, Osaka offers a lower cost of living while still providing big-city conveniences.

Q: What is the average rent in Tokyo and Osaka per month?

A: As of 2024 data, the average monthly rent in Tokyo is around ¥78,000, while in Osaka it’s around ¥62,000. These figures cover all apartment types and sizes. In central Tokyo 23 wards alone, the average can be higher (Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward was about ¥114,500 across unit sizes in one survey). By contrast, Osaka’s citywide average (e.g. Osaka City) might be in the ¥60k range. Keep in mind that these are broad averages – actual rents vary by neighborhood and apartment condition. A small studio in outer Tokyo might be ¥50,000, whereas a luxury 2LDK in central Osaka could be ¥150,000. But generally, Tokyo’s average is highest in Japan, and Osaka’s average is the next tier down.

Q: Why are rents higher in Tokyo than Osaka?

A: Several reasons. Tokyo has enormous demand and limited space. It’s Japan’s economic center, with more companies and higher wages, which drives up what people are willing to pay for housing. Land prices in Tokyo are much higher than in Osaka, and that cost gets passed to renters. Additionally, Tokyo offers unparalleled convenience (extensive transit lines, services, nightlife), so many pay a premium to live close to the action. In Osaka, the economy and population are robust but smaller – fewer people competing for each apartment means prices don’t soar as high. Also, Tokyo has many high-end properties targeting executives and expats, especially in areas like Roppongi or Azabu, which push up the “average”. Osaka’s housing stock is a bit more mid-range. In short, Tokyo’s size, wealth, and density make it pricier. Osaka is cheaper because of slightly lower demand and cost factors, though it’s still expensive compared to most cities in Japan.

Q: How can I save on rent if I move to Tokyo or Osaka?

A: To save on rent, consider these strategies: 1) Live slightly farther from the city center. In Tokyo, living 20–30 minutes by train outside the downtown (or in neighboring prefectures) can cut rent dramatically. In Osaka, similarly, look at suburbs or nearby cities like Suita, Kobe, or even Kyoto for cheaper rent. 2) Choose a smaller or older apartment. In Japan, older buildings (even 20+ years) often have lower rent, and a 1K or studio will be much cheaper than a 2LDK. Many expats start in a small apartment to save money. 3) Share housing or rent a room. Especially in Tokyo, share houses for foreigners are popular and cost less than a private apartment. 4) Negotiate or time the market. If you search in the off-peak moving season (winter months) or look for units that have been vacant, you might snag a discount or lower initial fees. Also, check if your employer offers any housing support – some companies in Japan provide partial rent subsidies, which can help in expensive cities. By being flexible on location and size and doing thorough research, you can significantly reduce your rent burden in both Tokyo and Osaka.

Q: What upfront rental costs should I expect in Tokyo vs Osaka?

A: Both Tokyo and Osaka rentals come with hefty upfront costs, but the systems have slight differences. In Tokyo, it’s common to pay a security deposit (shikikin) equal to 1–2 months’ rent and key money (reikin) of 1–2 months’ rent (a gratuity to the landlord). Additionally, you often pay the first month’s rent in advance and a realtor’s fee (~1 month rent). So, moving into a Tokyo apartment can require 4–5 months’ worth of rent paid at once (though some modern apartments waive key money). In Osaka, many landlords use a guarantee money (hoshōkin) system. You might pay, say, 3 months’ rent as guarantee money, but a portion of that (called shikibiki or deduction) is non-refundable and covers cleaning/repairs – the rest might be returned when you move out. Osaka historically has less key money than Tokyo (key money is less common in Kansai), but you’ll still have deposit and fees. Both cities also usually require enrolling in a guarantor service and fire insurance. Bottom line: be ready to pay around 3 to 6 months of rent upfront in either city. It’s a shock to many newcomers. Always confirm the specific fees for your lease, and if needed, opt for “zero key-money” or “zero deposit” properties (they exist, especially in Osaka) to reduce the initial payment.

Moving to Japan and unsure about the housing hunt? Whether you’re drawn to fast-paced Tokyo or the charm of Osaka, our team at E-Housing is here to help. We specialize in assisting expats to find the perfect home and navigate leases in Japan. Contact us today to get personalized guidance and access to listings that fit your budget and lifestyle. Start your Japan chapter with a home you love – let us make the process smooth for you.

Updated: June 2025
Author: E-Housing Editorial Team