8 Tokyo Station Areas Where You Can Live on a Budget

Tokyo is known for its high cost of living, but did you know there are hidden gems where you can find affordable apartments? These 8 station areas in Tokyo’s 23 wards boast average monthly rents under 70,000 yen (roughly $460 USD).

If you’re dreaming of living in Japan’s bustling capital without breaking the bank, keep reading!

A Glimpse into Tokyo’s Affordable Housing: $500/Month in Horikiri

Located in the Horikiri area of Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, lies a surprisingly spacious 2DK house that defies the city’s reputation for astronomical rents. At just ¥90,000 (approximately $500) per month, this 38.71 m² (roughly 420 sq ft) residence offers a cost-effective entry into the Tokyo housing market.

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The house, built in 1981, may not be the newest on the block, but it comes equipped with essential amenities like air conditioning, a full kitchen, a bath with a shower, and even a high-tech washlet toilet.

Located just a 6-minute walk from Horikirishobuen Station on the Keisei Main Line, this property provides easy access to central Tokyo.

A quick 6-mile journey takes you to the historic and cultural heart of Asakusa. While the initial move-in costs, including deposit, agency fee, and other expenses, total around ¥448,500 (about $2,500), the ongoing monthly rent remains an affordable ¥90,000.

For those seeking a budget-friendly base in the world’s most populous metropolis, this 2DK house in Horikiri offers a practical and economical solution.

1. Edogawa Station: A Hidden Oasis

Picture this: a quaint, elevated train station surrounded by local supermarkets, drugstores, and mom-and-pop shops. That’s Edogawa Station for you, where the average rent is a jaw-dropping 64,000 yen (about $420 USD).

ut that’s not all – just a short walk from the station lies the Edogawa River, home to the stunning Koiwa Iris Garden.

In the summer, you can catch the famous Edogawa Fireworks Festival lighting up the night sky.

From Edogawa Station, you can easily access the Keisei Main Line, which gets you to major stations like Nippori and Keisei Ueno in just 24 and 30 minutes respectively.

Plus, cycling just 10 minutes west will bring you to Koiwa Station, another affordable area on our list.

2. Ichinoe Station: Where Convenience Meets Comfort

Tying for second place are Ichinoe Station and Shinozaki Station, both on the Toei Shinjuku Line. With average monthly rents of 65,000 yen (around $425 USD), these station areas offer the perfect balance of convenience and comfort.

Ichinoe Station, in particular, has seen some exciting developments in recent years.

In 2021, a famous coffee shop, 100-yen store (think dollar store), and supermarket opened near the east exit. The west exit is also home to a variety of casual eateries perfect for a quick bite after work. And get this – from Ichinoe Station, you can reach the iconic Shinjuku Station in just 35 minutes!

3. Shinozaki Station: A Commuter’s Dream

If you’re someone who values a seat on the morning train, Shinozaki Station might be your dream come true. As the second stop on the Toei Shinjuku Line, you’ve got a higher chance of snagging a spot even during rush hour.

But that’s not the only perk – the station building is directly connected to a shopping complex with a supermarket, 100-yen shop, bakery, and more.

The streets around Shinozaki Station are lined with supermarkets, drugstores, restaurants, and izakayas (Japanese-style pubs). And if you’re in need of some serious R&R, there are two public baths just north of the station complete with saunas.

Oh, and did we mention Shinozaki is also a prime spot for viewing the Edogawa Fireworks Festival? You might just find an apartment with a front-row seat to the show.

4. Kamiigusa Station: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Next up is Kamiigusa Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line, where you can find apartments for an average of 65,500 yen (roughly $430 USD). Nature enthusiasts will love the nearby Wadabori Park, just a 15-minute walk away.

Here, you can relax amidst the greenery, go fishing in the pond, or enjoy a picnic with friends.

When you’re ready to explore the city, the Seibu Shinjuku Line will get you to popular stations like Takadanobaba and Seibu Shinjuku in no time. From there, you can easily transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to access hotspots like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.

5. Keisei Koiwa Station: Parks Galore

If you love spending time outdoors, Keisei Koiwa Station might be the perfect fit for you. Tying for the #4 spot with an average rent of 65,500 yen, this station area is known for its abundance of parks.

The Koiwa Park, a 15-minute walk away, features sports facilities, a library, and even a small petting zoo.

Keisei Koiwa Station is just one stop away from Edogawa Station (our #1 cheapest area) on the Keisei Main Line. You can also reach major stations like Nippori and Keisei Ueno in under 30 minutes.

And if you’re in the mood for some shopping or dining, check out the station’s shopping arcade.

6. Yazaike Station: A Cherry Blossom Haven

Coming in at #6 is Yazaike Station on the Nippori-Toneri Liner, with an average monthly rent of 66,000 yen (about $435 USD). This elevated station is surrounded by everyday conveniences like supermarkets, drugstores, and eateries.

But the real draw? The nearby Toneri Park, famous for its cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring.

From Yazaike Station, you can reach Nippori Station in just 15 minutes via the Nippori-Toneri Liner. There, you can easily transfer to the JR Yamanote Line, JR Joban Line, or Keisei Main Line to access other parts of Tokyo.

7. Mizue Station: Shop ‘Til You Drop

Sharing the #7 spot are Mizue Station and Rokucho Station, both boasting average rents of 66,500 yen (roughly $440 USD). Mizue Station, on the Toei Shinjuku Line, has seen some serious upgrades in recent years.

In 2019, a massive shopping mall opened just a 5-minute walk from the station, complete with a supermarket, drugstore, 100-yen shop, and plenty of restaurants.

Nature lovers will also appreciate the nearby Mizue Park, which offers sports facilities and a peaceful Japanese garden. It’s the perfect spot for a morning jog or afternoon stroll.

8. Rokucho Station: A Student’s Haven

Last but not least is Rokucho Station on the Tsukuba Express Line, which provides a direct 20-minute connection to the famous Akihabara area. The station building itself is a one-stop-shop with a supermarket, restaurants, and even a fitness gym.

Rokucho Station is especially popular among students, thanks to its proximity to several universities like Tokyo Denki University and Tokyo University of Science. The nearby Senjusakuragawa Park is also a hotspot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

So there you have it – 8 Tokyo station areas where you can live comfortably without spending a fortune (according to Suumo). From the traditional charm of Edogawa to the youthful energy of Rokucho, there’s a neighborhood for every lifestyle. Why not start your Tokyo apartment search by exploring these budget-friendly options? Your dream life in Japan might be just a train ride away.