Average Apartment Size Tokyo: Layouts and Costs

The average apartment size Tokyo offers is often smaller than what many newcomers expect. Understanding layouts, rental costs, and property prices is crucial before moving. At Arealty, we provide clear guidance and multilingual support to help foreigners find the right home in Japan with ease and confidence.

Japanese Homes: Typical Size and Market Overview

Japan’s housing market reflects the country’s limited space and high population density, especially in its capital. Apartments are described by both size in square meters and layout types such as 1K (one room plus kitchen), 1LDK (one bedroom plus living, dining, and kitchen), or 2LDK for larger units. For foreigners used to more spacious housing, understanding the average apartment size Tokyo provides is essential. On average, apartments are compact but designed with efficiency in mind, making clever use of space through sliding doors, foldable furniture, and built-in closets.

See more: Japan 1 bedroom apartment

Apartment Layouts and Living Spaces in Tokyo

Tokyo apartments vary widely depending on purpose and budget. Studios and one-room apartments typically range from 20–30 m², making them suitable for singles or students. A 1LDK apartment, which includes one bedroom plus a living, dining, and kitchen area, averages around 35–50 m². For couples or small families, 2LDK or 3LDK units provide more comfort, often between 60–80 m². Despite their modest size, Japanese homes emphasize practicality with sliding doors, built-in closets, and compact but functional kitchens.

Comfortable living space in Tokyo

See more: 2 bedroom apartment in Japan

Rental Costs: Central vs Suburban Tokyo

Rental prices in Tokyo vary drastically depending on location:

• Central Tokyo (Minato, Shibuya, Chiyoda, etc.)
• Studio (20–25 m²): ¥80,000 – ¥120,000/month
• 1LDK: ¥150,000 – ¥250,000/month
• Suburban Areas (Saitama, Chiba, western Tokyo, etc.)
• Rent is often 30–50% cheaper compared to central districts
• Families choose these areas for larger spaces and affordability

The trade-off: more space and lower prices in the suburbs, but longer commuting times compared to central Tokyo.

Apartment rental prices across Tokyo

See more: 3 bedroom apartments in Japan

Apartment Ownership: Costs and Market Trends

For long-term residents or investors, buying property in Tokyo offers stability but comes with higher costs. The price per square meter in central locations can exceed ¥1,200,000, especially in luxury areas. Meanwhile, suburban neighborhoods average closer to ¥600,000 per m². While smaller apartments may be more affordable, larger units are considered valuable assets due to limited space in the city. Buyers should also factor in maintenance fees, property tax, and initial purchasing costs when making decisions.

Conclusion

The average apartment size Tokyo offers may be smaller than in other countries, but with smart layouts and diverse pricing, it suits different lifestyles. Whether you are renting a compact studio or buying a spacious family apartment, understanding the balance between size and cost is essential. At Arealty, we make the process simple for foreigners, offering transparent service and multilingual support to ensure a smooth housing experience in Japan.