Affordable Housing Options in Osaka
Nwe Nwe
Accommodation Consultant
Why Osaka for affordable living?
Osaka is often cheaper than Tokyo for rent and daily expenses while offering excellent transport, food culture, and job opportunities. With the right neighbourhood and housing type, you can live comfortably on a modest budget.
Popular affordable neighbourhoods
- Suminoe / Suminoe-ku: cheaper rents, good train access to central Osaka and Kansai Airport.
- Taisho: affordable, close to central hubs via the JR and subway lines.
- Higashiosaka / Tsurumi: suburban, lower rents β common for families and workers.
- Tennoji outskirts: more affordable farther from the main station while still accessible.
- Sakai and Kishiwada: cities just outside Osaka with lower rents and reasonable commutes.
Housing types that save money
Sharehouses & Guesthouses
Great for short-term stays and community living. Furnished, utilities often included, and events to meet other residents β ideal for students and newcomers.
One-room apartments (1R / 1K)
Small but affordable. Look for newer units with unit baths or renovated older buildings. Expect lower rent but limited space.
UR (Urban Renaissance) Housing
Managed by a public corporation, UR housing has no key money or agent fee and often reasonable rents. Eligibility rules apply; it's worth checking availability.
Gaijin-friendly apartments
Some companies and agents specialise in foreigner-friendly rentals with English support; fees may be slightly higher but reduce hassle and guarantor issues.
Typical costs (approximate)
Monthly rents vary by area and size. These are ballpark figures to help budgeting:
- 1R / 1K (outer Osaka): Β₯40,000βΒ₯60,000
- 1R / 1K (central Osaka): Β₯60,000βΒ₯90,000
- Sharehouses: Β₯30,000βΒ₯60,000 (utilities often included)
- UR housing: Comparable or slightly cheaper than private market; no key money or agent fee.
Move-in fees (deposit, key money, agent fee) can add 3β6 months' rent unless you find UR housing or sharehouses which reduce upfront costs.
How to find affordable listings
- Browse local portals and filter by rent and distance to station.
- Visit small, neighbourhood real estate shops β they often have pocket listings.
- Use sharehouse companies (Borderless House, Oakhouse, Sakura House, etc.) for short-term options.
- Check UR housing websites and apply directly when available.
- Consider roommates to split rent and utilities.
Tips to reduce upfront costs
- Look for "no key money" (η€ΌιγΌγ) or "no agent fee" listings.
- Apply for UR housing to avoid many common upfront fees.
- Negotiate slightly on rent for older units or longer contracts.
- Use guarantor companies only when necessary β compare fees.
- Consider starting in a sharehouse while you search for a longer-term deal.
Who to contact / useful services
- Local real estate shops near stations β walk-in and ask for budget options.
- Sharehouse operators β they often list short-notice availability.
- City ward offices β for temporary housing advice and local support.
- University accommodation offices β for students seeking affordable housing.
Checklist before signing
- Confirm total move-in cost (breakdown of deposit, key money, agent fee, and insurance).
- Check commute time and last train if you work late.
- Inspect for mold, hot water, and internet availability.
- Confirm contract length and renewal fees.
- Ask about cleaning fees and how deposit deductions are calculated.
Final thoughts
Affordable housing in Osaka is achievable with flexible expectations and willingness to look slightly outside central areas. Start local, compare options, and consider short-term sharehouses as a bridge while you secure a longer-term apartment.
