Tokyo’s Dream Wards and Affordable Hidden Gem Stations

Moving to Tokyo is exciting, but skyrocketing rents can crush your dreams of living in a top ward. LIFULL HOME’S, a housing info service run by LIFULL Co., Ltd., surveyed Tokyoites to find out which of the 23 wards they’d most love to live in. They also dug into “hidden gem” stations in those wards where rents are surprisingly affordable. Based on their report, here’s a breakdown of where people want to live and how you can snag a cheaper place without giving up your dream location.

Where Tokyoites Want to Live

LIFULL asked folks in their 20s to 60s which ward they’d pick if they could live anywhere. Here’s what they found, broken down by age:

• Minato Ward takes the crown for people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. It’s a favorite for its upscale vibe and central location. Even 60-somethings ranked it second, so it’s got broad appeal.

• Bunkyo Ward is a hit with younger crowds, landing second for 20s and 30s, fifth for 50s, and fourth for 40s and 60s. Its quiet, intellectual charm draws people in.

• Setagaya Ward shines for older folks, topping the list for 60-somethings, coming second for 40s and 50s, but slipping to third for 20s and fourth for 30s. It’s loved for its spacious, family-friendly feel.

While rankings shift slightly by age, the same wards—Minato, Bunkyo, Setagaya, and a few others—pop up consistently. These places have a universal pull, no matter how old you are.

Affordable Stations in Dream Wards

The catch? Top wards often have rents way above Tokyo’s average of 113,000 yen a month. If you’re eyeing Minato or Setagaya, the price tag might make you wince. But LIFULL found stations in these wards where rents are much lower—sometimes by 75,000 yen or more compared to the ward’s average. These “hidden gems” let you live in a dream ward without breaking the bank. Here are three standouts:

Umegaoka Station (Setagaya Ward)

Setagaya’s Umegaoka is a family haven. Hanegi Park nearby has playgrounds, tennis courts, and a library, perfect for kids or a weekend stroll. You’ll find cozy shops, cafes, and restaurants that give the area a warm, lived-in feel. Rents here are way below Setagaya’s norm, making it a steal for such a desirable ward.

Kamiigusa Station (Suginami Ward)

Kamiigusa, nicknamed “Gundam Town” for its anime studio history, is a practical pick. It’s just 20 minutes from Seibu Shinjuku Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line, so commuting’s a breeze. The Kamiigusa Shopping Street and nearby supermarkets make daily life easy. Plus, rents are low for Suginami, letting you enjoy a lively ward on a budget.

Hatagaya Station (Shibuya Ward)

Hatagaya is the “super hidden gem” with the biggest rent savings in Shibuya Ward. It’s on the Keio New Line, two stops from Shinjuku and about 20 minutes from Shibuya, so you’re never far from the action. The area’s packed with shopping streets—Hatagaya, Rokugo, and Nishihara—full of stores and local eateries. If you love dining out or grabbing groceries on the go, this spot’s got you covered, all at a fraction of Shibuya’s typical rent.

Don't give up on your Tokyo dream!

With Tokyo rents climbing, finding a place in a ward like Minato or Shibuya can feel impossible. LIFULL’s report shows you don’t have to give up. By targeting stations like Umegaoka, Kamiigusa, or Hatagaya, you can live in a dream ward without draining your wallet. Check out these spots if you’re house-hunting—they might just be your ticket to Tokyo living done right.

Source: LIFULL HOME’S report on Tokyo’s desirable wards and affordable stations.