How Big are Tokyo Apartments?

Understanding Japanese Homes: Average Apartment Size and Price

Apartments in Tokyo range from famously tiny studios to spacious luxury flats. On average, a typical home in Japan's capital is about 65–66 square meters (≈700 sq ft), though many urban areas feature much smaller housing units. Studio apartments can be as compact as 10 m² (108 sq ft) – essentially a one room setup with a mini kitchen and bath. By contrast, larger and more luxurious apartments can exceed 100 m² (1,076 sq ft). Below is a breakdown of common apartment types, their typical sizes, and how prices vary between central Tokyo and outer areas:

Apartment Type	Typical Size	Average Rent (Central Tokyo)	Average Rent (Outer Tokyo)
Studio (1R/1K) – a single room with kitchenette	15–25 m²	¥100,000–¥120,000/month	¥60,000–¥80,000/month
1LDK (1 Bedroom) – one bedroom + Living/Dining/Kitchen	30–50 m²	¥150,000–¥230,000/month	¥90,000–¥130,000/month
2LDK (2 Bedroom) – two bedrooms + LDK	50–70 m²	¥250,000–¥380,000/month	¥120,000–¥180,000/month
Large/Luxury Apt (3–4 BR) – family or high-end unit	80–150 m²	¥500,000/month and up ; ultra-luxury >¥1,000,000	¥300,000/month and up (large homes in suburbs)

Source: Tokyo 23-ward average rents by ward and layout (2023). Central Tokyo refers to prime wards (e.g. Chiyoda, Minato), and "Outer Tokyo" refers to suburban wards on the city outskirts (e.g. Adachi).

Apartment Sizes and Layouts in Tokyo

Understanding Sizes and Japanese Room Measurements

Tokyo apartments are measured in square meters (㎡), but we've provided square feet as well for easy reference. The layout codes (1R, 1K, 1DK, 1LDK, etc.) indicate how many rooms and whether there's a separate Living/Dining/Kitchen area. For example, a "1R" or "1K" is a studio (one room, often 15–25 m²). A "1LDK" means 1 Bedroom + Living/Dining/Kitchen; these typically range 30–50 m² (323–538 sq ft), with an average around 40 m² (431 sq ft) – enough space for a couple or a single person wanting extra room.

A "2LDK" (two-bedroom apartment with a separate living, dining and kitchen area) usually falls in the 50–70 m² (538–753 sq ft) range, comfortable for a small family. Larger layouts like 3LDK or 4LDK (3-4 bedrooms) often start around 70 m² (753 sq ft) and can go up to 100 m² (1,076 sq ft) or more for standard family apartments – with luxury units even larger.

Traditional Japanese room size is often measured using tatami mats, with one tatami equivalent to approximately 1.65 m². Many apartments, especially older ones, use this method (１帖 ~ 1.65 m²) in real estate listings. A tatami room with the area of two tatami mats would be considered quite small, while rooms with 4–6 mats are more common in family apartments.

Living Space vs Total Floor Area

It's worth noting that Japanese floor area counts some spaces (like the genkan entryway or balconies) in the total square meters. In a government survey, the average Tokyo dwelling had 65.9 m² total, but only ~41 m² was actual living area (bedrooms, kitchen, living room). So if an apartment is listed as 20 m², the usable living space might be a bit less.

This makes Tokyo's housing units feel compact – developers maximize every square meter. High land prices and density mean that minimalism is the norm: lots of clever storage, multipurpose areas (e.g. a living room that doubles as a bedroom with a futon), and efficient floor plans are common in Japanese living.

How small is "small"?

Tokyo's micro-apartments are famous worldwide. Some studios are under 20 m² (215 sq ft) – indeed, over 1.4 million households in Tokyo live in homes smaller than 19.7 m² (212 sq ft)!
These tiny units often feature a single multi-purpose room, a unit bath (compact modular bathroom), and a small kitchen. In extreme cases, a few tens of thousands of Tokyo residents live in spaces around 10 m² (≈107 sq ft) – essentially a single room without much extra space, measuring about 95 sq ft of usable area. Due to the high population density and limited space in large cities like Tokyo, these compact living solutions have become common, especially for many young people and single professionals.

On the flip side, luxury apartments and expat-oriented units in central Tokyo can be quite spacious. High-end developments may offer 100–200 m² (1,075–2,150 sq ft) per unit or more, with multiple bedrooms and large living rooms. For example, in Tokyo's upscale Minato Ward, some luxury residences span several hundred square meters (several thousand sq ft) and feature amenities like concierge service, pools, and private gyms. These are the exception, though – the vast majority of Tokyo's apartments are under 80 m² (860 sq ft), and new construction has trended toward slightly larger units than in decades past.

Rental Prices: Central vs Suburban Neighborhoods

Tokyo is a city of contrasts when it comes to rent. Central wards – such as Chiyoda, Minato, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Chūō – command the highest rents in Japan. These areas are the heart of Tokyo's business districts, trendy hotspots, and major transport hubs. In central Tokyo, even a tiny studio apartment can cost a premium: for instance, Chiyoda Ward studios average around ¥114,000/month (about $800), while one-bedroom 1LDKs are around ¥227,000 ($1,600).

Popular expat-friendly areas like Minato Ward (home to Roppongi, Azabu, etc.) see studio rents over ¥120,000 and 2LDKs around ¥400,000 per month. High tenant demand, convenience, and prestige keep these prices up. Central locations also have many newer apartment buildings with modern facilities, which further raises rents.

By contrast, in Tokyo's suburban or outer wards, you can find much more affordable options. Neighborhoods in the surrounding metropolitan area (e.g. Adachi, Edogawa, Katsushika in the north/east, or parts of Setagaya and Ota in the west/south) offer lower rents and often slightly larger spaces. For example, in Adachi Ward (northeast Tokyo), a studio averages around ¥65,000/month (under $500) – nearly half the price of a central studio – and a 2LDK is about ¥120,000 ($800–900).

Even in Setagaya Ward, known as a relatively upscale residential area but farther from the city center, a small 1DK (one room with a separate kitchen area) might be ~¥124,000 and a 2LDK ~¥188,000, noticeably less than Tokyo's core wards. The trade-off is a longer commute or less "buzz" – these areas are more tranquil, with more space and often more family-oriented housing (sometimes low-rise apartment buildings or even houses).

Across the 23 wards overall, rents have been on an upward trend recently. As of early 2024, the average rent across Tokyo's 23 wards was about ¥4,237 per square meter of space. For a 40 m² apartment (about 431 sq ft), that translates to roughly ¥169,000/month. In the central 5 wards (Chiyoda, Chūō, Minato, Shibuya, Shinjuku), the average was higher – about ¥5,027 per m² (so ~¥201,000 for a 40 m² unit). In short, central Tokyo rents are ~20%+ higher per square meter than the citywide average.

Rents are rising due to people moving back to the city post-pandemic and would-be home buyers opting to rent (since purchase prices have shot up). Despite the high costs, occupancy rates are extremely high – around 97% in the rental market – so vacant apartments, especially in desirable areas, get snapped up quickly by prospective tenants.

Luxury Segment: Premium Housing in Tokyo

Tokyo also has an exclusive luxury rental market, typically in central areas (Aoyama, Roppongi, Akasaka, etc.). These properties can be penthouses or units in brand-new towers with concierge and gyms. Their rents are eye-watering. For example, one luxury high-rise had units ranging from ¥370,000/month ($2,700) for a cozy 31.86 m² 1LDK, up to ¥2,180,000/month ($16,000) for an expansive 166.6 m² 2LDK penthouse.

Clearly, these are outliers for most people, but they show the upper end of Tokyo's rental spectrum – often occupied by corporate executives and expatriates with housing allowances from Japanese companies. For a typical expat or professional looking in central Tokyo, a budget of around ¥150,000–¥250,000 ($1–2k) a month can secure a comfortable 1LDK or small 2LDK in many neighborhoods, whereas students or those on tighter budgets often opt for sub-20 m² studios further out for ¥50,000–¥80,000.

Buying Property: Prices for Owned Apartments

If you're looking to buy an apartment (condominium, or "manshon" in Japanese) in Tokyo, be prepared for some big numbers. Tokyo's real estate market has surged to record highs recently. In fact, 2023 set a record: the average price of a brand-new apartment in Tokyo hit ¥114.8 million (about $780,000). This is an astonishing 39% jump from the previous year, fueled by rising construction costs and an influx of buyers (including foreign investors taking advantage of a weak yen).

To put ¥114.8 million in perspective, that's roughly 25 times the average Japanese annual salary – a clear sign of how expensive central Tokyo property has become. Many of these new units are luxury condos in prime locations; for example, in 2023 a 376.5 m² (4,052 sq ft) penthouse in Minato's Mita district sold for ¥4.5 billion yen (≈$30 million) – a headline-grabbing sale. Such extreme luxury sales skew the averages upward, but even more "ordinary" new apartments in Tokyo are pricey by global standards.

In the broader Tokyo metropolitan area (Greater Tokyo) – which includes the suburbs and surrounding prefectures – new apartments averaged around ¥81 million (~$550k) in 2023. So, buying inside the Yamanote Line (central Tokyo) can easily cost significantly more than in areas a bit further out. By 2024, there were signs the feverish market might be calming slightly – for instance, one index showed the average new condo price in Greater Tokyo easing to about ¥78 million in early 2024 – but prices remain historically high.

For second-hand (resale) apartments, prices are somewhat lower but have also been climbing. Location and average size drive pricing, but a rule of thumb is that in Tokyo's 23 wards, a standard used apartment costs on the order of ¥800,000–¥1,000,000 per square meter. That means a 70 m² (753 sq ft) used apartment might ask around ¥55–¥70 million. In February 2023, the average asking price for a 70 m² second-hand apartment in the 23 wards was ¥69.77 million. This was a record at that time and about 4% higher than the previous year.

It equates to roughly ¥1 million/㎡, reflecting how sought-after central locations are. Across the entire Greater Tokyo Area, the average price per square meter for existing condos was about ¥781,000 as of late 2024, so you can find lower prices in the outskirts or neighboring prefectures. However, central Tokyo holds its value – prices in the 23 wards have increased for dozens of months in a row at some points.

New vs. Old Price Gap

New construction condos typically carry a premium. For example, at one point new units were selling for around ¥877,000/㎡ on average (Greater Tokyo, 2017) while second-hand units were ~¥600,000/㎡, but that gap has narrowed with the recent price boom.

The result: some buyers are now priced out of new developments and turn to older properties or continue renting. Financing is also a factor – Japan's ultra-low interest rates have made mortgages affordable, but one still needs a substantial down payment and the ability to service a large loan for a Tokyo purchase.

If you're purchasing, neighborhood price differences mirror the rental market. Central areas like Minato, Shibuya, Chiyoda can see astronomical prices, especially for new builds or top floors with views. More peripheral districts or commuter suburbs (e.g., in Saitama, Chiba, or western Tokyo) offer more space per yen. For instance, ¥60–¥70 million might buy a small two-bedroom in central Tokyo, versus a family-sized house or large condo in a suburb.

It's also common for Tokyo condos to depreciate in value over time (the land is often the most valuable part), except in prime locations where land value keeps rising. Interestingly, Tokyo's constant construction means supply is relatively plentiful – the city has added housing stock rapidly over the decades, which historically helped keep prices from exploding even more. But with recent trends, buying in Tokyo now requires careful thought about long-term value and potential resale or rebuilding down the line.

New Buildings (Last 10 Years) vs. Older Buildings

Tokyo's skyline is a mix of shiny new high-rises and older, low-rise apartments. Newer buildings (less than ~10 years old) typically offer modern comforts and may feature slightly larger floor plans on average. In fact, the average size of a new apartment built in Tokyo in recent years is a bit higher than older stock – for example, in 2017 brand-new apartments averaged 63.2 m² (680 sq ft), compared to 60.1 m² (647 sq ft) for existing units.

Developers have been inching unit sizes upward to appeal to families and dual-income couples. New buildings also adhere to the latest earthquake codes (critical in Japan) and often feature amenities like auto-lock security, elevators (even for smaller 3-4 story buildings, which older buildings might lack), modern insulation, and sometimes facilities like parcel lockers or gyms. These conveniences come at a cost: newer properties command higher rents and sale prices. Renters will pay a premium to be the first tenant of a modern apartment with brand-new fixtures. Buyers often pay 10–20% (or more) extra for new construction, which partially reflects that they won't need to budget for major repairs for a while.

In older buildings (say 20+ years old), you'll often find lower prices but trade-offs in features. Many older Tokyo apartments (especially those built in the 70s and 80s) might have smaller rooms and closed-off kitchens (as open-plan LDK layouts became popular later). Some lack an elevator if they're only 3–5 stories high, which is common in older low-rise "apaato" blocks – something to consider if you don't fancy lugging groceries up stairs.

That said, older units can sometimes be more spacious for the price or located in charming, low-density neighborhoods. It's not unusual to find a 30-year-old 2LDK that's, say, 70 m² at a much lower rent than a modern 50 m² 1LDK in a skyscraper. For buyers, an older condo (especially if built before the 1981 update to seismic standards) will be far cheaper per square meter than a new one in the same area. Just be mindful that buildings in Japan have a finite lifespan – many older apartments may face renovation or even rebuilding (developers sometimes buy out an aging building to erect a new one).

New vs Old – What's the Difference in Lifestyle?

In a new luxury high-rise, you might have floor-to-ceiling windows, built-in dishwashers, and high-tech toilets, plus amenities like lounge areas or a concierge. In an older building, you might have a cozier, retro feel with a more local neighborhood vibe – perhaps with a shotengai (shopping street) nearby where the old tofu shop owner greets you.

Both new and old buildings exist throughout Tokyo's wards, but central areas have seen a boom in modern towers this past decade (e.g., around Tokyo Bay, or replacing older blocks in Shibuya). Meanwhile, suburbs might have newer large complexes near train stations, but also many post-war era houses and apartments. The maintenance fees for owners in new buildings can be high (to support all those facilities), whereas older buildings might have lower fees but potentially bigger repair funds due soon. Renters generally just see the reflected cost in rent.

To illustrate the price gap: consider two 70 m², 2LDK apartments in the same area, one brand-new and one 30 years old. The new one might cost, say, ¥80 million to buy, while the 30-year-old one might be ¥50 million – a significant difference. Rent-wise, the new one might rent for ¥300k/month vs. ¥200k for the older. These differences vary by location, of course, but newness is a major price factor in Tokyo.

Key Trends and Financial Metrics Explained

Price per Square Meter

This is a common metric to compare prices. In Tokyo 23 wards, current sale prices often exceed ¥1 million per m² for new construction (that's about ¥93,000 per tsubo, a Japanese unit) and not far off that for used apartments in central locations. For tenants, another useful metric is rent per square meter – as noted, it's around ¥4,000–¥5,000/㎡ in much of Tokyo.
In practical terms, small units cost more per square meter than large ones. A 20 m² studio renting at ¥80k is ¥4k/㎡, while a 60 m² two-bedroom at ¥150k is only ¥2.5k/㎡. This reflects how demand for small, centrally located units (for singles, students, etc.) is very high, pushing up the price relative to size.

Average vs. Median

Sometimes Tokyo's averages can be skewed by ultra-luxury sales or very pricey areas. The median might be a better representation for what a typical person might pay. For example, the average rent for a family-sized apartment might be ¥180k, but the median could be lower if a few super-expensive rentals drag the average up. However, as a house-hunter you'll likely encounter prices near those averages in many popular areas, since the pricey districts are a substantial part of Tokyo.

Renting Costs and Key Money

Aside from monthly rent, keep in mind Tokyo rentals often require shikikin (deposit) and reikin (key money) upfront. A common expectation is 2 months deposit + 1 month key money + agent fee, though many modern rentals, especially aimed at young professionals, are reducing or eliminating key money. These add to your initial financial outlay but key money is essentially a fee (not returned), while the deposit is usually returned minus cleaning fees. These aren't reflected in "average rent" but matter for budgeting your move.

Many landlords also require finding a guarantor when renting an apartment in Japan, which can be challenging for foreigners. Fortunately, guarantor companies are available in Japan to help solve this issue.

Property Taxes and Fees

If buying, factor annual property taxes (which are based on government valuation, often lower than market price, so not too high for a condo) and monthly maintenance and repair fund fees for condos. New buildings might have lower fees initially (if developers subsidize), but they tend to rise as the building ages and requires upkeep.

Interest Rates and Mortgages

Japan has had very low mortgage rates (often <1% for fixed loans) which makes buying somewhat attractive if you can afford the down payment. This has allowed buyers to stretch for those high prices. It's one reason the market has so many transactions even at high price levels – borrowing is cheap. If rates rise, that could cool prices. But for now, many see real estate as a stable investment, especially with inflation creeping up.

Trends Post-Pandemic

During 2020–2021, Tokyo saw a brief softening in rent as some people left the city or worked remotely, and fewer foreigners arrived. But by 2022–2023, the population inflow returned – Tokyo's urban areas are growing again – and rents not only recovered but hit new highs.
On the sales side, the pandemic initially made some hesitant, but then a combination of fiscal stimulus, low rates, and perhaps lifestyle changes (wanting a home office, for example) kept demand strong. Foreign investment also played a part; with the yen weak, some overseas buyers see Tokyo property as a bargain in dollar or euro terms. This was a notable factor in the luxury segment price surge.

Supply and Construction

Tokyo's approach to housing is often cited as a reason it's somewhat more affordable (relative to income) than, say, Hong Kong or San Francisco. The city adds tens of thousands of new homes each year. Over decades, this has led to an abundant housing stock – by 2013 Tokyo actually had more homes than households (a surplus).
This continual renewal means older units filter down to lower-income renters, and new units come in at the high end – effectively a trickle-down housing supply. For renters, this means you can often find something within your budget if you're flexible on age, size, or commute. For buyers, it means Tokyo's housing is not as scarce as in some cities; however, land in prime areas is still very scarce and valuable. That's why a tiny condo in Ginza costs more than a house in Hachioji.

Expert Insights: What Do These Numbers Mean for You?

Apartment Type / Consideration	Typical Size / Feature	Rent Range (Monthly)	Additional Notes
Studio (1R/1K)	~20 m² (approx.)	¥80,000 – ¥120,000	Central Tokyo studio sizes; options may vary based on location
1LDK Option	Generally larger than a studio	~¥100,000 (example)	A central studio at ¥100k might be equivalent to a larger 1LDK located 20 minutes outside center
Location Impact	Varies by area	Varies	Areas like Kōtō, Nerima, or Ota can offer an extra 5–10 m² or an additional bedroom for similar rent
Building Age Consideration	Older (e.g., 30-year-old, renovated)	Lower rent potential	Older buildings can be less expensive; verify renovations; landlords often require upfront payment
Traditional Feature	Genkan (entryway for shoe removal)	—	A common and distinctive feature in Japanese apartments

For Renters

The data might seem overwhelming, but the takeaway is choice. Tokyo offers everything from shoe-box studios to spacious penthouses. If you're a young professional or student moving to Tokyo, you'll likely be looking at the smaller end – perhaps a 1R/1K or a 1LDK. Knowing that an average studio apartment in central Tokyo is ~20 m² and around ¥80k–¥120k/month helps set your expectations.
You'll need to budget for that and decide what matters: location vs. size vs. price. For example, ¥100k could get you a central studio or a much larger 1LDK an extra 20 minutes train ride away. Many people find that living slightly outside the city center (in areas like Kōtō, Nerima, or Ota Ward instead of Shinjuku) can get them an extra 5–10 m² of space or an extra bedroom for the same rent.

Also consider building age: a 30-year-old apartment might look less shiny, but could save you tens of thousands in rent each month. Always check if an older building has been renovated; many have updated interiors despite an old exterior. And remember, Tokyo landlords often prefer tenants who can pay a few months upfront and who have stable income (or a guarantor). Having your paperwork (employment letter, guarantor company, etc.) ready can make securing a place easier in this high-demand market.

A distinctive feature of Japanese apartments is the genkan – an entryway where people remove their shoes before entering the living space. This is a standard feature in most Japanese homes, from the smallest 1K to the largest 3LDK apartment.

Category / Consideration	Price Range / Financial Details	Mortgage & Down Payment	Additional Considerations
New Condos	Average new condo over ¥100M	Fixed-rate mortgages are very low (<1%)	"New construction premium" may apply; prices are high, but long-term hold can be advantageous
Second-hand / Older Apartments	Approximately ¥30M – ¥50M	Often more affordable	May offer better value with a slightly older (5–10 years) building if well-maintained; price depends on condition and location
Financing Requirements	—	Generally require a 10–20% down payment for foreigners	Factor in additional transaction costs (agents’ fees, taxes) and necessary earthquake insurance
Resale Value Insights	—	—	Resale value depends on building age and land; standalone houses often depreciate while condos may retain value if well-maintained

For Buyers

The Tokyo sales market is hot – possibly overheated in parts of Japan. As a buyer, ask yourself how long you plan to hold the property. If it's long-term (10–20+ years), buying even at high prices can make sense, especially since fixed-rate mortgages are so low. Over decades, real estate in central Tokyo has generally appreciated, or at least the land value has.

But if your horizon is short, keep in mind transaction costs (agents' fees, taxes) are significant, and prices can fluctuate. The fact that new condos average over ¥100M is daunting – but there are cheaper options: smaller units, or those in older buildings or less central areas. A second-hand apartment in a decent suburban neighborhood might be ¥30–¥50M, which, with a 0.5% interest loan, could be manageable for a dual-income couple. Do note though, Japanese banks often require 10–20% down payment for foreigners, and properties generally need to be insured for earthquakes.

Another insight: resale value in Japan depends on both the building's age and the land. Unlike many Western markets, a standalone house in Japan often loses value over time (it's the land that holds value). For condos, if the building is well-maintained and in a prime location, it can buck this trend (some 10–20 year old condos in central Tokyo have risen in value recently).

If you're buying new, know that there's typically a "new construction premium" that might not hold up after a few years – similar to driving a new car off the lot. Buying slightly older (say 5–10 years old) can sometimes offer better value, as the price has adjusted but the building is still relatively modern.

Actionable Takeaways for Prospective Tokyoites

1. Prioritize Your Needs:
   Decide what's most important – short commute, space, or budget. You likely can't have a huge apartment in the city center for cheap. For a given budget, choose two of those three priorities. For example, if you need space but have a limited budget, look outside central Tokyo; if location is king for you, be prepared to live cozily. Our analysis shows how rents jump in central wards, so moving just a few train stops out can save considerable money.

2. Use Size Guidelines:
   Keep the size ranges in mind when apartment-hunting. A 20 m² (215 sq ft) studio is basic but livable for one person (common for students or single professionals). 30–40 m² is a comfortable studio or small 1LDK – good for singles who want a bedroom separate from the living area, or even a very cozy setup for a couple. Apartments that are around 430–480 sq ft (40–45 m²) provide enough space for a couple without feeling cramped. Units of 50–70 m² can accommodate a small family or a couple needing office space. If you see listings in square feet, remember 500 sq ft ≈ 46 m², etc. These benchmarks will help you gauge if an apartment is unusually small or spacious for its type. And don't just look at numbers – examine the floor plan (most listings include one) to see layout efficiency.

3. Consider Building Age and Type:
   If you're renting, don't shy away from older buildings if they're well-kept – you can get more room for less rent. Just inspect things like water pressure, AC/heating, and natural light. If you're buying, weigh new vs. old. New builds have upfront appeal and less immediate maintenance, but older ones (especially 10–20 years old) might be better bargains and still in good condition. Also, research if an older condo has had a major renovation or has a reserve fund for future repairs.

4. Neighborhood Matters:
   Tokyo's neighborhoods have distinct characters. Visit the area at different times of day if you can. Central business districts (e.g. around Tokyo Station) might be convenient for work but quiet at night and on weekends. Residential wards (Meguro, Setagaya, etc.) offer parks, schools, and supermarkets – great for families. Areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya are vibrant but can mean smaller apartments for the price (and potentially more noise).
   Suburban areas can be a trade-off between commute time and living space – many find it worth having a dining room and a spare bedroom in exchange for a 40-minute train ride. Our data comparison across wards gives a sense of the rent trade-offs: e.g., ¥150k might get you a studio in Minato vs. a 2LDK in Edogawa. Think about what lifestyle you want in relation to living in Tokyo.

5. Leverage Resources and Ask Questions:
   Tokyo's real estate market can be tricky to navigate, especially with language barriers and unique practices like key money. Use bilingual real estate agencies or websites geared toward foreigners if needed – they often present information clearly (some even list sizes in both square feet and square meters, and have neighborhood guides).
   Don't hesitate to ask an agent about total monthly costs (rent + maintenance fees for some apartments, utilities like water, gas and electricity, parking if needed) and initial move-in costs. If buying, get a trusted realtor or consultant who can explain the home loan process, taxes, and any government incentives for home buyers. Essentially, arm yourself with information – much of which we've summarized here – so you can make a confident decision.

6. Plan for the Future:
   If you intend to stay in Tokyo a while, think ahead. Renting gives flexibility – you can always move if your job or family situation changes. Buying is a longer commitment; consider the resale or rental potential of the place (is it in a location others would want? Will it be easy to find tenants or a buyer later?).
   Also, if starting a family is in your plan, note that a cozy 1LDK that's perfect for a couple might feel tight with a baby. Some people choose to rent a smaller place now to save money, then upgrade later. Others lock in a purchase early to start building equity. Tokyo offers opportunities for both paths, with its stable rent vs. buy market. For instance, with rents rising ~5% year-on-year recently, getting a larger apartment before they're too expensive might be worth considering.

In Summary

Tokyo's real estate landscape is diverse and dynamic. You'll find everything from compact micro-apartments perfect for minimalists to sprawling luxury condos that rival New York prices. Central neighborhoods vs. suburbs, renting vs. buying, new vs. old buildings – each choice has its pros and cons, as reflected in the numbers.

The key is to align those options with your personal and financial priorities. Tokyo may be one of the world's most populous cities, but with the right approach, you can find an apartment that fits you. Use the data and trends outlined above as a guide, but also trust your instincts when you walk into a space – sometimes the "feel" of an apartment or neighborhood can't be quantified. Happy house-hunting in Tokyo!