Where to live in Tokyo
Tokyo is a city of villages connected by rail. Pick a Yamanote-line station first; the neighbourhood follows. Apartments are smaller than the photos suggest — see them in person.
Shimokitazawa
Indie shops, second-hand bookstores, live houses. The bohemian Tokyo Westerners often pick first.
Rough 1BR rent: $950–$1,500/mo. Best for: Creatives and remote workers.
Nakameguro
Canal-side cherry blossoms, third-wave coffee, boutique stores. Calm and design-led.
Rough 1BR rent: $1,300–$2,000/mo. Best for: Higher-budget couples and singles.
Daikanyama
Tokyo's answer to upmarket Aoyama, scaled down. Tsutaya bookshop, designer streetwear, leafy.
Rough 1BR rent: $1,400–$2,200/mo. Best for: Professionals and design-led shoppers.
Koenji
Vintage clothes, jazz cafés, summer Awa-odori festival. The cheapest cool postcode you can find.
Rough 1BR rent: $750–$1,200/mo. Best for: Budget-conscious nomads and students.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best neighbourhoods in Tokyo for expats?
Jonzy's guide covers 4 areas in Tokyo, including Shimokitazawa, Nakameguro, Daikanyama. Each is scored on vibe, rent, and who tends to land happily there.
How much is rent in Tokyo?
A 1-bedroom across Tokyo's expat-friendly neighbourhoods runs roughly $750–$2,200/month, depending on the area and how central it is.
Where should I live in Tokyo as a remote worker?
It depends on budget and pace of life. Jonzy breaks down 4 neighbourhoods in Tokyo by vibe (walkable, quiet, up-and-coming) and who each suits best.