Looking for best place to stay tokyo? You’ll find solid options even in more budget‑friendly wards of Tokyo. Tokyo is a massive city, and within the 23 wards, rental prices and living styles vary significantly.
Our analysis focuses on three key criteriathat matter most to newcomers: reasonable rent levels around ¥70,000, convenient access to central Tokyo within 40 minutes, and livable and cheap/neighborhoods with essential amenities and services.
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How We Ranked the Best Place to Stay Tokyo
Rent Affordibility
Ave. monthly rent for 1BR around ¥70,000
- Market data on 2025
- Includes utilities estimates
- Student-friendly options
Transport Access
Commute times to major business districts
- Shinjuku accessibility
- Ikebukuro connections
- Multiple train lines
Lifestyle Quality
Daily conveniences and neighborhood character
- Shopping and dining
- Safety and atmosphere
- International community
Each city has been carefully evaluated across these dimensions to provide you with the most practical housing recommendations for starting your life in Tokyo.
#1 Nerima – Best Value for Furnished Studios
￥67k
Ave. Montly Rent
19min
To Shinjyuku
10min
To Ikebukuro
Nerima offers one of the cheap areas for furnished apartments in Tokyo. If you’re comparing Tokyo apartments by price and furnishings, Nerima stands out for combining residential calm with surprisingly short commute times to Ikebukuro and Shinjuku.
Find Tokyo apartments here!
Cross One Room’s fully furnished studio starts from ¥38,000/month, no key money & no agent fee—ideal for expats & short‑term stays. If you’re searching for cheap Tokyo apartments that’s furnished and hassle‑free, this is one of the best deals.
Note: The landing page is in Japanese, but you can complete the inquiry form in English without any problem.
Check furnished accommodation online↓↓
Step 1. Scroll down and fill out the “Contact form”
Step 2. View properties online
Step 3. Sign your contract online
Step 4. Move in with a smart key
#2 Edogawa – Cheapest for Riverside Living
Riverside and Seaside
Surrounded by the Arakawa and Edogawa Rivers and facing Tokyo Bay, Edogawa offers abundant waterside attractions. From water buses to family-friendly parks with splash areas, the ward provides a unique lifestyle close to nature.
Family-Friendly
Edogawa is known for its extensive child-rearing support. With programs named “Mama” foster care, and after-school “Sukusuku” schools, the ward attracts many young families, supportive environment for raising children.
| Ave. Rent | To Shinjyuku | To Ikebukuro | Charactor |
| ¥70k/mo | 36 min | 34min | Waterside town |
Edogawa offers the most budget-friendly housing in Tokyo without sacrificing convenience. The ward features excellent shopping areas, particularly around Nishi-Kasai station, with large supermarkets and international food stores perfect for newcomers.
The area maintains a residential charm while providing easy access to central Tokyo via the Tozai Line and JR Sobu Line.
#3 Adachi – Budget and Community-Focused
The Kitasenju Advantage
Centered around the vibrant Kitasenju station, Adachi ward has transformed into a trendy area popular with young professionals and students. The area offers an exciting urban lifestyle with countless dining and entertainment options.
Multiple train lines converge at Kitasenju, providing flexible travel options throughout Tokyo.
From budget-friendly chains to unique local boutiques, shopping options abound near major stations.
Key Stats: ¥70k/mo average rent | 28 min to Shinjuku | 20 min to Ikebukuro
#4 Katsushika – Quiet, Traditional & Underrated
Rent & Access
- Average Rent: ¥71k/mo
- To Shinjuku: ~36 minutes
- To Ikebukuro: ~32 minutes
- Major Stations: Aoto, Shin-Koiwa, Kameari
Lifestyle Highlights
- Authentic old-town atmosphere
- Affordable daily expenses
- Traditional shopping streets
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
Katsushika preserves the nostalgic feel of traditional Tokyo while offering modern conveniences. The ward is famous for its shitamachi (downtown) culture, with friendly local merchants and affordable restaurants that make daily life enjoyable and budget-friendly for international residents.
#5 Itabashi – Close to Ikebukuro Without the Cost
Close proximity to Ikebukuro (just 12 minutes) while maintaining affordable housing options.
Traditional shopping streets (shotengai) offer daily necessities at reasonable prices.
Perfect mix of urban convenience and residential tranquility for newcomers.
| Ave. Rent | To Shinjyuku | To Ikebukuro | Charactor |
| ¥70k/mo | 20 min | 12 min | Balanced Lifestyle |
Itabashi represents the sweet spot between affordability and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for those who want easy access to central Tokyo without compromising on budget or quality of life.
Find Your Perfect and Affordable Place to Stay Tokyo
Budget-Friendly
All options under ¥90,000 monthly rent, perfect for student and newcomer budgets
Well-Connected
Reasonable access to central Tokyo within 40 minutes via multiple train lines
Livable Communities
Each ward offers unique lifestyle advantages and welcoming neighborhoods
These five wards represent excellent starting points if you’re hunting for cheap Tokyo apartments that’s also furnished. Whether you prioritize maximum affordability (Edogawa), traditional culture (Katsushika), green spaces (Nerima), urban energy (Adachi), or balanced living (Itabashi), you’ll find a welcoming community and sustainable lifestyle.
Start your Tokyo life with ease
“Cross One Room” offers a studio from ¥38,000/month, fully furnished with no key money, deposit, or agent fees!
Note: The landing page is in Japanese, but you can complete the inquiry form in English without any problem.
Check furnished accommodation online↓↓
Step 1. Scroll down and fill out the “Contact form”
Step 2. View properties online
Step 3. Sign your contract online
Step 4. Move in with a smart key
Shibuya Living: Furnished Studio Starting in the ¥60,000/mo~ ↓
家具家電付き、渋谷エリア6万円台〜【クロスワンルーム】
Shinjyuku Living: Furnished Studio Starting in the ¥60,000/mo~ ↓
家具家電付き、新宿エリア6万円台〜【クロスワンルーム】
