Looking for a place to live in Japan, especially around Tokyo, can feel overwhelming. With so many areas and price points, it’s hard to know where to start. While Tokyo is popular, Yokohama is quickly becoming a top choice. It offers more space, lower rent, and great access to the capital. In this 2025 guide, we’ll cover why renting in Yokohama is a smart option, how it compares to Tokyo, and what to expect in terms of costs and lifestyle.

Why More Renters Are Choosing Yokohama Over Tokyo

Just south of Tokyo, Yokohama stands as Japan’s second-largest city and a compelling alternative for those who want the perks of city life without the intensity and high costs often associated with the capital. With its modern infrastructure, reliable public transportation, and spacious residential options, living in Yokohama appeals to a wide range of people, from working professionals and students to digital nomads and families.

One of Yokohama’s biggest draws is its strategic location. Thanks to efficient train lines like the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokaido Line, and Yokosuka Line, commuting to Tokyo hotspots such as Shibuya, Shinagawa, or Tokyo Station typically takes just 30 to 40 minutes. This quick and reliable access allows residents to enjoy the job opportunities and educational institutions in central Tokyo while living in a more relaxed and affordable environment.

Beyond its commuter convenience, Yokohama offers a dynamic lifestyle of its own. The city blends modern commercial centers with scenic spots like Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, and Chinatown, giving residents plenty of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences right at their doorstep. Unlike many suburban areas, Yokohama doesn’t just serve as a place to sleep, it’s a city worth exploring and enjoying in its own right.

For anyone considering renting an apartment in Japan, Yokohama strikes a smart balance between urban access and quality of life. Its combination of space, affordability, and connectivity makes it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a better everyday living experience without giving up the advantages of being near Tokyo.

Affordable housing near Tokyo Japan

Types of Apartments Available in Yokohama

Whether you’re a single professional, a couple working remotely, or a family looking for more room to grow, Yokohama’s rental market has something for everyone. The city offers a diverse mix of housing options, with units typically larger and better priced than their Tokyo equivalents.

• Studios and 1K units: Popular among students and solo renters, these compact apartments are affordable and efficient, usually located near train stations or universities.
• 1LDK and 2LDK layouts: Great for couples or remote workers who need a separate living space and office area. These apartments offer open-plan living and a more comfortable layout than a typical Tokyo 1K.
• 3LDK and larger family homes: Designed for households who need more space, these properties are common in residential districts and often come with balconies, separate dining areas, and multiple bedrooms.

Compared to central Tokyo neighbourhoods like Setagaya or Shinagawa, a similar rental budget will often get you more square meters, better views, and a quieter environment in Yokohama.

Best Neighbourhoods to Rent in Yokohama

Yokohama is a city of unique and diverse neighbourhoods. Each district provides its character, lifestyle, amenities, and rental price range. Whether you’re a working professional, an international student, or a family looking to settle down, there’s a neighbourhood in Yokohama that fits your needs. Below are some of the top areas to consider when searching for apartments for rent in Yokohama, Japan, in 2025.

Minato Mirai

Minato Mirai 21 is one of Yokohama’s most iconic and desirable locations. As a modern waterfront district, it is filled with luxury high-rise condominiums, premium office towers, designer shopping malls, fine dining, and entertainment complexes. The area offers breathtaking bayfront views, scenic promenades, and quick access to landmarks such as the Yokohama Landmark Tower, Pacifico Convention Centre, and Cosmo World amusement park.

Minato Mirai appeals especially to young professionals, tech workers, and digital nomads who prioritise convenience, walkability, and access to coworking spaces. With direct train links via the Minatomirai Line to central Yokohama and Tokyo, commuting is efficient and stress-free. Apartments here tend to be modern, well-equipped, and on the higher end of the rental spectrum, perfect for those who seek a balance of work and upscale urban living.

Luxury apartments in Minato Mirai

Naka Ward

Naka Ward is rich in cultural heritage and offers a dynamic blend of traditional Japan and global influences. It’s home to the vibrant Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest in the world, as well as historical attractions like Yamashita Park, the Hikawa Maru ship, and the Yokohama Archives of History. The streets are lined with international eateries, cozy cafes, and boutique stores that give the district a warm, inviting atmosphere.

This area is particularly popular among long-term expats and international families due to its diversity, accessible amenities, and inclusive community. The neighbourhood has a variety of housing options, from older, charming apartments with character to newly renovated flats. Naka Ward is ideal for renters who value cultural experiences, a walkable environment, and an active, multicultural lifestyle in the heart of the city.

Yokohama Chinatown street view

Kanagawa Ward

Kanagawa Ward is a highly convenient choice for professionals who need to commute frequently to both Yokohama and Tokyo. Situated close to the bustling Yokohama Station, one of Japan’s major transit hubs, the area offers unparalleled access to multiple train and subway lines, including the JR Tokaido, Keihin-Tohoku, and Yokosuka lines.

In addition to its excellent transportation links, Kanagawa Ward features a wide range of supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, and healthcare services. Rental properties here include both mid-range and upscale apartments, catering to solo renters and working couples alike. For those who prioritise practicality, time efficiency, and proximity to work, Kanagawa Ward delivers excellent value and accessibility in a central setting.

Easy Tokyo commute from Kanagawa

Aoba and Tsuzuki Wards

Located in the northern part of Yokohama, Aoba and Tsuzuki Wards are known for their peaceful residential character and abundance of green spaces. These suburban neighbourhoods are popular among families with children, thanks to their reputable schools, playgrounds, community centres, and low crime rates. Housing here tends to be more spacious, with options for multi-room apartments and detached homes.

Public transport remains reliable, with the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Yokohama Municipal Subway connecting residents to central Yokohama and beyond. The overall atmosphere in Aoba and Tsuzuki resembles that of family-friendly Tokyo suburbs like Setagaya or Nerima, offering calm surroundings, clean air, and a tight-knit community feel. These wards are ideal for those seeking a slower-paced life while still having city amenities within easy reach.

Suburban lifestyle in Yokohama Japan

Rental Prices in Yokohama in 2025

Housing costs in Yokohama are generally lower than in central Tokyo, even for comparable apartment sizes. Here’s a snapshot of average monthly rents in 2025:

Apartment Type	Central Yokohama	Residential Wards (e.g., Aoba, Tsuzuki)
Studio / 1K	¥60,000 – ¥100,000	¥50,000 – ¥80,000
1LDK / 2DK	¥95,000 – ¥140,000	¥80,000 – ¥120,000
2LDK / 3LDK	¥135,000 – ¥210,000	¥110,000 – ¥170,000

In contrast, apartments for rent in Tokyo, especially in central locations like Shinagawa or Shibuya, can be up to 25–30% more expensive for similar layouts. This pricing gap makes Yokohama an excellent value for those earning the Tokyo salary average, which currently stands at approximately ¥6.2 million annually in 2025.

Cost of Living and Income Balance

The average monthly salary in Tokyo, often between ¥250,000 and ¥350,000 for mid-career professionals, can feel tight when facing high living costs. In central wards like Shibuya, Minato, or Chiyoda, rent is steep, commutes are long, and daily expenses quickly add up. This makes it hard to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

That’s why many are turning to Yokohama as a smarter alternative. With the same income, renters can find larger, better-equipped apartments at lower prices. Basic living costs including groceries and utilities are also more manageable. In addition, lease terms tend to be more flexible, which helps newcomers or short-term residents.

Yokohama’s location makes it easy to commute to Tokyo business hubs like Shinagawa or Shinjuku in just 30 to 40 minutes using lines such as the Tokyu Toyoko Line or Tokaido Main Line. You get more space, lower costs, and a calmer atmosphere without giving up career opportunities or city access.

For professionals looking to stretch their salary in Japan without sacrificing opportunity, renting in Yokohama is a smart and well-balanced solution.

Renting an Apartment in Yokohama: How It Works

The rental process in Yokohama is quite similar to Tokyo, and generally includes a few essential steps. To apply, you’ll usually need:

• A valid passport and residence card
• Proof of income or employment (such as a contract or recent tax records)
• A local emergency contact
• Funds for upfront costs (including deposit, key money, agency fees, and the first month’s rent)

Thanks to growing demand, renting in Yokohama as a foreigner is now easier than ever. Many properties are listed through expat-friendly agencies like Arealty, Suumo, and Homes.jp, with support in English. In popular districts like Minato Mirai or Naka Ward, it’s also more common to find listings that don’t require a guarantor, making the process smoother for international residents.

Yokohama vs. Tokyo – Which is Right for You?

Trying to decide between living in Tokyo or renting in Yokohama? Here’s a quick side-by-side look to help you choose the right fit based on lifestyle, budget, and daily needs:

Category	Tokyo	Yokohama
Rent Costs	Expensive, especially in central wards like Shibuya	More budget-friendly, with wider options
Apartment Size	Often compact and minimal in space	Generally roomier, especially in residential districts
Commuting	Easy within city limits	30–40 minutes to major Tokyo hubs by train
Family-Friendly	Limited space in urban areas	Ideal for families, with parks and quiet neighborhoods
Lifestyle	Fast-paced and crowded	Relaxed, with a stronger sense of community

If you’re after career opportunities and city energy, Tokyo might be your pick. But if you value space, affordability, and balance, Yokohama could be the smarter choice.

Conclusion

In 2025, Yokohama stands out as one of Japan’s most livable cities, especially for renters who value space, affordability, and access to Tokyo without the downsides of big-city congestion. Whether you’re a young professional, an expat relocating with your family, or someone working remotely, Yokohama offers a variety of apartments that match your lifestyle and budget.

Thanks to its excellent infrastructure and expanding rental market, finding the right apartment in Yokohama has never been easier. Explore your options with trusted platforms like Arealty and start your journey to a more balanced life today.

Looking for apartments for rent in Yokohama, Japan? This in-depth 2025 guide covers average rent prices, apartment types, top neighbourhoods, and how Yokohama compares with Tokyo for renters.