Off-Base Living Near Yokota Air Base: Fussa and Beyond

When you get orders to Yokota Air Base, one of the first decisions is where to live. On-base housing is not always available, and many service members and civilian employees end up renting off-base in the towns around the base.

The good news is that western Tokyo is a comfortable place to live. It is quieter than central Tokyo, homes are larger, and you are still about an hour from Shinjuku by train.

Towns around the base

Yokota sits across several municipalities. The most popular places to rent are:

• Fussa: the closest town to the main gates. Fussa and Ushihama stations on the JR Ome line make train trips easy, and the Route 16 strip outside the base has shops and restaurants that cater to Americans.
• Hamura: just north of Fussa, with riverside parks along the Tama River and good value family houses.
• Akishima: south of the base, with large shopping centers and the JR Ome line toward Tachikawa.
• Mizuho and Musashimurayama: quieter areas on the north and east sides, often chosen by families who want more space and a yard.

For a full overview of housing types, typical rents and commute times to the gates, read our Yokota Air Base housing guide.

What off-base homes look like

Off-base housing near Yokota ranges from compact apartments to detached houses. Many homes were built with American tenants in mind, so you will see more Western-style kitchens and larger bedrooms than usual in Tokyo.

You can browse current listings on the Fussa-shi apartments for rent page.

Five things to check before signing

1. Approval from your housing office. Make sure the property and the lease meet the requirements of your base housing office before you commit.
2. Parking. Most families need a car. Confirm whether a parking space is included or rented separately.
3. Heating. Older Japanese houses can be cold in winter. Ask how each room is heated.
4. Early termination terms. If you might move on short notice, check the notice period and any penalty for leaving early.
5. Garbage rules. Each city has its own sorting rules and collection days. Ask the agent for the local guide.

Life off-base

Living off-base is a chance to experience everyday Japan. Local festivals, neighborhood supermarkets and the Tama River trails quickly become part of your routine. Many families say it is the highlight of their tour.

Start your search

Browse all apartments for rent in Japan, or visit Arealty to work with an English speaking team that helps military families find homes near Yokota every week.