If you're thinking, "I’ve always wanted to live in Tokyo, but I don’t know which area is best for me," this article is for you. We’ve carefully selected some of the most livable neighborhoods from Tokyo’s 23 wards. We’ll explain details such as safety, transportation access, average rent, and overall convenience, so whether you're planning to live alone or searching for a family-friendly area, don’t miss this!
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Where is the best place to live in Tokyo?
Each area of Tokyo has a very different atmosphere. That’s why your ideal place to live depends greatly on your lifestyle and values. If you take time to sort out what matters most to you—such as "good transportation access," "quiet environment," or "affordable rent"—you’ll be able to find an area that suits you perfectly.
So, what does "livability" really mean?
Even if a place is labeled as a "livable area," what people prioritize can vary greatly. Here, we’ll introduce five key criteria that are commonly considered when choosing a place to live.
1. Safety
No matter your age, living in a safe environment is always important. Specific indicators include low crime rates, well-lit streets at night, and areas with a steady flow of people. If you’re interested in a certain neighborhood, it's a good idea to ask a local real estate agent about the safety of that area in advance for peace of mind.
2. Average Rent
No matter how appealing an area is, it’s hard to stay long-term if it doesn’t fit your budget. Rent prices vary greatly depending on the area, so it’s crucial to choose one that matches your income and lifestyle. As a general guideline, rent should be about 20–30% of your take-home pay, so be sure to compare that with your own income when deciding what's reasonable.
3. Availability of Restaurants and Supermarkets
Having nearby supermarkets to support your daily meals and restaurants for casual dining greatly contributes to overall satisfaction with daily life. This is especially beneficial for those living alone or in dual-income households, where easy access to food and shopping can make a big difference.
4. Convenience of Public Transportation
Public transport is essential for getting around Tokyo. Whether it’s having a starting station, access to multiple train lines, or less crowded commuting conditions, these factors directly affect livability. If you already use a particular train line for work or school, it might help to narrow down your search to areas along that route.
5. Availability of Life Infrastructure Like Hospitals and Parks
Hospitals, parks where kids can play, and welfare facilities are the foundation for a comfortable and secure life. For families especially, the availability of these kinds of facilities is a major factor in determining whether an area is livable.
By weighing these points together, you’ll be able to get a clearer picture of what a "livable" neighborhood means to you.
【By Category】Recommended Livable Areas in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Now that you understand the criteria for livability, let’s take a look at some specific neighborhoods within Tokyo's 23 wards. We’ll introduce areas by category, such as "best for solo living" or "best for families," so you can use it as a guide when looking for a place to live.
【For Solo Residents】Recommended Livable Areas in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Here are three recommended areas for those planning to live alone.
Ogikubo (Suginami Ward)
Ogikubo is known for being a very safe area. While the average rent is about mid-range, the neighborhood is packed with large supermarkets, traditional shopping streets, and a variety of restaurants, making it easy to manage daily shopping and dining out. You can use the JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (a starting station), offering direct access to Shinjuku and Tokyo, making it incredibly convenient. Hospitals and public facilities are also within walking distance, making Ogikubo an ideal area for first-time solo living.
Safety: ★★★★☆
Affordability: ★★★☆☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★☆
Transportation Access: ★★★★☆
Life Infrastructure: ★★★★☆
Nerima (Nerima Ward)
Nerima is filled with greenery and has a good reputation for safety, making it a great place for those starting their first solo living experience. Compared to central Tokyo, rent here is quite affordable, and there are many properties suitable for single residents. Around the station, you’ll find popular chain restaurants and large supermarkets, so daily meals and shopping are hassle-free. In terms of transportation, four lines are available including the Seibu Ikebukuro Line and Toei Oedo Line, offering easy access to Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Roppongi. Parks and public services like the ward office are also well-developed, making it a place where you can really feel the convenience of daily life.
Good security: ★★★★ ☆
Cheap rent: ★★★★ ☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★★
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★★ ☆
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Musashi-Koyama (Shinagawa Ward)
Musashi-Koyama is one of the safer areas in Shinagawa Ward and is a popular place to live. The area in front of the station features a covered shopping arcade with plenty of restaurants and supermarkets, offering everything you need for daily life. While rent prices are slightly on the higher side due to its location in Shinagawa Ward, the convenience more than makes up for it. The Tokyu Meguro Line provides easy access to Meguro Station and central Tokyo, making it ideal for commuting to work or school. With well-developed public infrastructure, Musashi-Koyama offers a modern and comfortable lifestyle where everything you need is close at hand.
Safety: ★★★★ ☆
Affordability: ★★ ☆☆☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★★
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Life Infrastructure: ★★★★ ☆
【For Families】Recommended Livable Areas in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Next, here are three areas especially recommended for families.
Kichijoji (Musashino City)
Kichijoji offers a great balance between urban convenience and nature, consistently ranking high in "Most Desirable Places to Live" lists featured in the media. The area around the station is filled with shopping malls, restaurants, and supermarkets, making daily life and dining out easy and enjoyable. As a bustling entertainment district, it's important to take some safety precautions around the station, which tends to attract many visitors. Rent is relatively high, but considering the access to the city and local amenities, it's worth the price. With direct trains to Shinjuku and Shibuya via the JR Chuo Line and Keio Inokashira Line, commuting is convenient. Surrounded by schools, medical facilities, and the famous Inokashira Park, it's an ideal environment for raising children.
Safety: ★★★ ☆☆
Affordability: ★★★ ☆☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★★
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★★★
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Setagaya Ward
Setagaya Ward is known for its outstanding safety among Tokyo’s 23 wards and is very popular among families. The area is home to many quiet residential neighborhoods. While rent tends to be on the expensive side, there are also reasonably priced options depending on the specific area. Setagaya is well-equipped with supermarkets and restaurants, ensuring a high level of convenience. Though accessibility varies by neighborhood, multiple lines such as the Odakyu Line, Den-en-toshi Line, and Tokyu Lines provide relatively smooth access to central Tokyo. With plenty of greenery, parks, and medical facilities, Setagaya offers the peace of mind and supportive infrastructure ideal for family life.
Safety: ★★★★★
Affordability: ★★★ ☆☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★★
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★★★
Itabashi Ward
Itabashi Ward offers a wide range of family-oriented housing options at generally affordable rent levels. The area is also considered relatively safe. With several large supermarkets and numerous local eateries, it’s a comfortable and convenient place to live. The Toei Mita Line and Saikyo Line provide easy access to central Tokyo. Itabashi is also well-equipped with parks, daycare centers, and hospitals. In fact, according to the "Best Cities for Dual-Income Child-Rearing 2024" ranking by Nikkei xwoman, Itabashi tied with Toshima Ward as the top spot in Tokyo (and ranked 3rd nationwide), making it a great choice for raising a family.
*Source: Nikkei xwoman "Ranking of Cities Where Parents Are Friendly to Raise Children 2024"
Safety: ★★★★ ☆
Cheap rent: ★★★★ ☆
Restaurants and supermarkets: ★★★★ ☆
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★★ ☆
【For foreigners】Recommended Livable Areas in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Here are three areas especially recommended for foreigners.
Shinjuku Ward
While there are parts of Shinjuku Ward where safety may be a concern, the area is known for its multicultural environment, especially around Shin-Okubo’s Koreatown. Rent tends to be high, but with many support centers such as the Foreign Residents Support Center, it's an accessible and comfortable place for foreigners to live. You'll find restaurants and supermarkets offering foods from around the world, and with JR and multiple subway lines available, transportation access is excellent. There are also many hospitals and public facilities that offer services in English, supporting a wide range of lifestyle needs.
Good security: ★★ ☆☆☆
Affordability: ★★ ☆☆☆
Restaurants & Supermarkets: ★★★★★
Transportation Access: ★★★★★
Living infrastructure: ★★★★ ☆
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Edogawa Ward
Edogawa Ward used to have concerns regarding safety, but redevelopment efforts have improved the living environment significantly. It offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere away from the city hustle, and rent tends to be lower compared to other central wards. The area is filled with large supermarkets and stores for everyday needs, making daily life convenient. With access to the Sobu Line and Toei Shinjuku Line, it's easy to reach central Tokyo. The ward also provides extensive support services for foreigners, and it has the highest population of foreign residents within the 23 wards—making it a particularly welcoming area for people from abroad.
Safety: ★★★★ ☆
Cheap rent: ★★★★ ☆
Restaurants and supermarkets: ★★★ ☆☆
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★★ ☆
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Minato Ward
Although Minato Ward has some nightlife districts, safety in its upscale residential areas is among the highest in Tokyo. Rent tends to be expensive, but the area is home to international business environments and educational institutions, making it popular among foreign expats. Many high-end restaurants and supermarkets are available, and the excellent access provided by multiple train lines adds to the convenience. The area is also well-equipped with medical facilities and international schools, offering top-class infrastructure for daily life.
Safety: ★★★ ☆☆
Affordability: ★ ☆☆☆☆
Restaurants and supermarkets: ★★★★ ☆
Transportation Acces: ★★★★★
Living infrastructure: ★★★★★
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【Affordable Rent】Livable Neighborhoods in Tokyo's 23 Wards
Finally, here are three recommended areas for those who "just want somewhere with cheap rent!"
Adachi Ward
Adachi Ward is unmatched in terms of rent affordability. The area around the station has many large supermarkets and restaurants, offering a high level of daily convenience. Transportation is also excellent—especially near Kitasenju Station, where five lines including the JR Joban Line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line are available. With plenty of hospitals and parks, Adachi is perfect for anyone looking to keep housing costs low.
Safety: ★★★ ☆☆
Affordability: ★★★★★
Restaurants and supermarkets: ★★★ ☆☆
Transportation Access: ★★★★ ☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★ ☆☆
Katsushika Ward
Katsushika Ward is known for its friendly, traditional downtown Tokyo atmosphere and relatively stable public safety. Rent is affordable, and the area is filled with local supermarkets and eateries, making daily life easy. Although transportation may take slightly more time, you can still access central Tokyo via the Keisei Line and JR Joban Line. With well-developed infrastructure, the area is recommended for both cost-conscious individuals living alone and families.
Safety: ★★★★ ☆
Affordability: ★★★★★
Restaurants and supermarkets: ★★★ ☆☆
Transportation Access: ★★★ ☆☆
Living infrastructure: ★★★ ☆☆
★★★★★：Excellent (Top-tier even compared to the rest of Tokyo)
★★★★☆：Very Good (Safe and convenient)
★★★☆☆：Average (Not bad, but has some challenges)
★★☆☆☆：Below Average (Some concerns depending on conditions)
★☆☆☆☆：Low (Choose with caution)
Which Wards Should You Avoid Living In?
You may come across comments online saying things like, "You shouldn't live in XX Ward." However, every area has its own pros and cons, and it’s not fair to label any place as outright bad.
For example, even if safety or noise is a concern in some areas, low rent or excellent transportation might be big positives for some people.
That’s why you shouldn't rely solely on online research—it's important to visit the area in person, check out some properties, and get a feel for the neighborhood. Don’t let online opinions sway you too much; instead, try to make your decision based on your own observations.
So Where Should You Live? How to Decide When You're Unsure
If you're unsure where to live, start by identifying what matters most to you. Whether it’s "keeping rent low" or "being close to work," your top priorities will greatly influence your ideal area. Once you've sorted out what’s important, take a walk through neighborhoods that catch your interest—you might find a place that feels just right.
Check Out the 'Most Desirable Places to Live in 2025' Rankings!
By the way, according to SUUMO's "Most Desirable Places to Live in 2025: Greater Tokyo Edition"*, the top spots go to 1st: Yokohama, 2nd: Omiya, and 3rd: Kichijoji. Other top-ranking areas include major stations like Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Shinagawa, showing how highly people value good access and livability along the JR Yamanote Line.
*Source: Real estate and housing site SUUMO "Most Desirable Places to Live Rankings"
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