First things first: What is a monthly apartment?

Monthly apartments are rental properties with furniture and appliances suitable for medium-term stays of one month or more, and are popular for people transferring, going on business trips, temporary housing, temporary student stays, etc. Unlike regular rental properties, in many cases no deposit or key money is required, making them easy to move in.

Below, you will learn about the differences between monthly apartments and other types of housing, as well as the specific benefits of using them.

Differences between weekly, monthly and regular rentals

There are some differences between them.

• Weekly apartments are generally contracted on a weekly basis, while monthly apartments are generally contracted on a monthly basis. Both are characterized by the fact that they come fully equipped with furniture, home appliances, Wi-Fi, etc.
• Regular rental properties generally have a two-year contract, and initial costs tend to be high due to deposits, key money, and brokerage fees.

You will also need to provide your own furniture. Weekly and monthly rentals, which are designed for short- to medium-term stays, are a convenient and flexible housing option.

Benefits and suitable people for each usage scenario

Monthly apartments are ideal for business trips, training, single-person transfers, exams and job hunting, temporary housing during reconstruction, and even short-term stays for foreigners. With no deposit or key money required and simple procedures for moving in, they fit the needs of those who want to move in immediately, don't want to bother with getting furniture, or want to stay longer at a cheaper price than staying in a hotel.

It is also attracting attention as a cost-effective option for people who want to live in an urban area for a certain period of time, such as for travel or event participation.

Contract period, initial costs, and service details

The appeal of monthly apartments is that you can flexibly choose the contract period from as short as one month to several months to half a year. Many properties do not require a deposit or key money as initial costs, and in some cases you can move in with only the advance rent and cleaning fee. Utility fees and internet usage fees are often included in the rent, so there is no need for complicated contracts.

In addition, furniture, appliances, and bedding are all provided, so you can move in on the same day with just one bag. This is a convenient housing style for busy business people and those living alone for the first time.

6 Recommended Popular Monthly Apartment Search Sites [2025 Latest Edition]

If you are looking for a monthly apartment, the first step is to choose a reliable search site. Recently, there has been a diversification of sites, from major portal sites that cover the entire country to specialized sites that are specific to a particular region or purpose.

Here we introduce 6 carefully selected recommended search sites for 2025. We will explain each site's features so that you can compare them from the perspective of the number of properties listed, area coverage, search functions, campaign information, support system, etc.

Good Monthly | A nationwide portal site

" Good Monthly " is the largest information portal in the industry that allows users to search for monthly and weekly apartments across all 47 prefectures in Japan, from Hokkaido to Kyushu and Okinawa. It supports a variety of search criteria, such as prefectures, cities, towns, villages, train lines, and maps, and also offers a wide range of specialized search options and recommended features.

The site offers a wide range of properties to meet a wide range of needs, including those for business trips, training, temporary housing, exams, cohabitation, pets allowed, etc. It also contains a "User's Guide" and "Useful Information" for beginners, so even those who are new to monthly contracts can search for properties with confidence.

Weekly & Monthly | Highly functional search and special features

" Weekly & Monthly " is a portal site that features a wide range of search functions and purpose-specific features. In addition to being able to use detailed filters such as "women only," "cohabitation allowed," and "parking available" in the condition search, the site also has popular articles and property features for specific situations such as business trips, training, sightseeing, and temporary housing.

The hassle-free contract style, which does not require a deposit or key money, and does not require procedures for electricity and gas, is popular. For those new to monthly rentals and those looking for short-term contracts, the fact that all the necessary information can be obtained in one place is a major attraction.

Weekly Residences | Japan's largest number of properties listed

" Weekly Residence " is one of the largest search sites in Japan in terms of the number of properties listed. It covers major cities across the country from Hokkaido to Okinawa, and has a wide selection of properties, especially in urban areas. In addition to searching by prefecture, you can also narrow down your search by popular areas, around stations, or specific conditions.

Since you can compare properties suitable for short- to medium-term stays all at once, it is perfect for those who want to find a home that matches their needs without spending a lot of time. If you value reliability and comprehensiveness, this is a site you should definitely check out.

LIFULL HOME'S Monthly | Stable collaboration with major portal sites

" LIFULL HOME'S Monthly " is a monthly apartment rental service provided by the comprehensive real estate information site "LIFULL HOME'S". With the stable management system and reliable property listings that only a major company can provide, it caters to a variety of purposes, including business use and student living alone.

The site offers a highly user-friendly search system and recommendations for popular areas, so even first-time short-term renters can use it with confidence. The site also has a wealth of reviews that can be used as a basis for choosing a property.

MAN3'S | Area rankings and discount information

" MAN3'S " is a website that specializes in searching and comparing weekly and monthly apartments, and is attractive for its unique area popularity rankings and special features on discount properties. It is equipped with a highly functional search function that can meet detailed needs, such as searching for required time and new discount information.

It is a highly reliable platform with a wealth of guide content for first-time users and information for management companies. It has a particularly large number of property listings, especially in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and is used for business trips, temporary housing, short-term study abroad, etc.

Mr. Business | Specializing in information for business use

" Mister Business " is a specialized website aimed primarily at monthly apartment users for business use. It has a wealth of content to meet corporate demand, including property introductions suitable for business trips and training, corporate contract handling, and support systems for long-term stays.

In addition, there is a lot of information that is useful for corporate personnel, such as cost-effective proposals, area selection criteria for businessmen, comparison of property facilities, etc. It is an ideal choice for corporate users who value cost management and efficiency.

How to choose recommended sites by area [Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama]

When searching for a monthly apartment, it is a good idea to use a search site that has a wide range of information on the number of properties listed in each area and area-specific information. Especially in urban areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, each site has different strengths and range of coverage.

Here we will introduce recommended search sites by major city area and compare their features that will be useful when searching for properties. By choosing an area-specific site, you can more efficiently find properties that meet your requirements.

If you're looking for a place in the Tokyo area, this site is recommended.

If you are looking for a monthly apartment in Tokyo, we recommend "Tokyo Monthly 21", which provides area-specific information. You can compare companies and properties by popular area in Kanto such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Ueno, and there are many cheap properties listed that have no deposit or key money, come with furniture and appliances, and have utilities included.

In addition, nationwide websites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" also feature Tokyo specials, making it convenient to search for properties along train lines or near stations. You can search for rooms that meet your needs, from corporate use to trying out living alone.

Where can I find monthly rentals in the Osaka/Kansai area?

If you are looking for a monthly apartment in Osaka or the Kansai area, it is convenient to use websites such as "Good Stay" and "AS Monthly Osaka" that list local specialist companies. National portals such as "Good Monthly" and "Monthlys" also have a wide range of Osaka features, and you can easily search for properties around popular stations such as Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji.

Those looking for accommodation for business trips, training, or single-person transfers will find the search filters for no deposit and short-term contracts useful. There are also plenty of options for conditions such as proximity to stations, Wi-Fi, and utilities included.

List of websites for finding cheap properties in Yokohama and Kanagawa

If you are looking for cheap monthly apartments in Yokohama City or Kanagawa Prefecture, we especially recommend local portal sites such as "Y-ROOM (Yokohama Weekly Mansion)" and "YokohamaMonthly.com." Y-ROOM in particular is a direct site run by one of Yokohama's largest companies, and offers a wide range of unique services, including special campaign properties and discounts on cleaning fees.

In addition, nationwide websites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" are convenient because you can narrow down your search to the Yokohama, Kawasaki, Fujisawa, and Shonan areas. These areas are also suitable for finding a home that allows you to commute to Tokyo.

Choose according to your purpose! Recommended search sites for different situations

When choosing a monthly apartment, the key to success is to use a search site that suits your purpose. There are many portal sites that allow you to search for properties that suit your lifestyle and situation, such as for business trips, single-person transfers, short-term stays for students, training, and trial cohabitation. Each site has different strengths, such as "corporate contract support," "no deposit or key money," "furniture and appliances included," and "short-term contracts OK," so it is important to use the right site according to your needs.

In this chapter, we will introduce the best search sites for each situation and help you find a property efficiently.

For business trips and single-person transfers | A site that makes it easy to sign short-term contracts

For business trips or solo relocations, we recommend search sites such as "Mister Business" and "Good Monthly," which handle corporate contracts and short-term contracts of one to several months. These sites list a wide range of properties that are equipped for business use, and have a comfortable working environment with Wi-Fi, desks, and close to stations.

In addition, it is also easy to use for corporate personnel because it supports invoicing and corporate name contracts. It is ideal for those who want to balance work efficiency with a comfortable life.

For students and training | Many properties with furniture and appliances, no deposit or key money required

If you are looking for a monthly apartment for students for short-term training, trial living alone before entering university, internship, etc., "Weekly & Monthly" and "Man3'S" are convenient. These sites have many properties that come with furniture and appliances and do not require a deposit or key money, so you can start living there immediately with less initial costs.

In addition, the contract is easy, and there are many properties where you don't need to visit the store and can complete the procedure online, so it is easy to accommodate those staying from far away or underage students. There are also plenty of properties near universities and train stations, so you can stay in a safe environment.

A site for trial cohabitation and temporary relocation

For trial cohabitation or temporary relocation before and after moving, the best sites are "Weekly Residences" and "Weekly & Monthly", which deal with properties where cohabitation is possible or monthly apartments where multiple people are allowed to live. These sites have functions that allow you to search by conditions such as "cohabitation allowed", "1LDK or larger", "2 people allowed", and "double beds included", and are also suitable for short-term stays for couples and families.

Another attractive feature is that it is easy to clarify your budget, with no deposit or key money, and utilities included. Because you can casually try out the living space, it is also used as a temporary residence before marriage or when preparing for a job transfer or move.

Four checkpoints to consider when comparing recommended sites

When choosing a monthly apartment search site, important points to compare are not only the number of properties listed and the search functions, but also the coverage area, clarity of fees, support system, campaign information, etc. By choosing a site that takes into account not only the property information but also the actual contract and post-moving support experience, you will be able to choose a home you will not regret.

Here we will explain in detail the four check items you should keep in mind when choosing a search site.

Number of properties listed and coverage area

The most basic and important thing to consider when choosing a search site is the number of properties listed and the comprehensiveness of the area covered. Nationwide sites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" cover properties not only in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, but also in regional cities and tourist destinations.

Another important point is whether the site supports station name searches and map searches. For those who want to compare multiple properties, or for those who cannot limit the area they can work in due to a sudden transfer or move, a site with a wide range of coverage and a large number of properties will be more convenient.

Clear pricing and quotation function

In addition to the monthly rent, monthly apartments incur additional fees such as utility fees, management fees, and cleaning fees, so it is very important that the fee structure is clearly displayed. Some sites only display the monthly rent, which can lead to a discrepancy with the actual amount paid.

Reliable sites have a function that automatically displays the total monthly fee, prorated fee, and estimates for each contract period, making it easy to compare. Be sure to check the transparency of the fees to avoid any trouble after signing the contract.

Support system (telephone, chat, visit support, etc.)

A comprehensive support system gives you peace of mind when using a monthly apartment for the first time, when moving suddenly, when signing a corporate contract, etc. Sites that offer a variety of contact methods such as email, chat, and LINE in addition to telephone support tend to respond quickly when problems arise or when you need help.

In addition, there are sites that provide on-site support and on-site viewing consultations, making them suitable for those looking for detailed service. High levels of support reduce anxiety when searching for a property and are a major factor in leading to a smooth contract and move-in.

Abundance of advantageous campaigns and special offer information

For those who want to keep costs down even a little, the availability of campaigns and special offers is extremely important. By utilizing sites that offer campaigns such as no deposit or key money, discounts on the first month's rent, half-price cleaning fees, and discounts for long-term stays, you can make a contract for the same property at a more reasonable price.

"Y-ROOM" and "Weekly & Monthly" regularly update information on area-specific special offers, and the value of the offer may change depending on the timing. We recommend checking the top page or special feature corner of the site to see if there are any campaigns.

Frequently asked questions about monthly apartment search sites

When searching for a monthly apartment, many people may feel unsure about how to use search sites, how to choose a property, the contract process, etc. In particular, questions such as "Where can I find the cheapest price?", "Are properties in rural areas listed?", and "What are the differences in the contract methods?" are frequently asked.

In this chapter, we will pick up some common questions that arise when choosing or using a search site, and provide easy-to-understand explanations so that even beginners can use them with confidence.

Which site can I find the cheapest price?

If you want to rent a monthly apartment as cheaply as possible, it's important to use a website that has plenty of campaign and discount information. "MAN3'S" and "Weekly Residence" have many properties that offer special offers such as the lowest price guarantee, long-term discounts, and free cleaning fees. Depending on the property, you may be able to keep the actual cost down by offering the first month free or including utility fees in the price.

It is recommended to compare multiple sites and use a site with a quote function to compare total prices, as there may be differences in prices even for the same area and facilities.

Is there a website where I can search for local monthly newsletters?

For those who are looking for monthly apartments outside of urban areas, such as regional cities, tourist destinations, or temporary stays at work transfer destinations, nationwide portal sites such as "Good Monthly" and "Weekly Residence" are ideal. They cover all 47 prefectures, and have a wide range of listings not only for major cities such as Sapporo, Sendai, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Naha, but also for core cities and properties near train stations.

In addition, they often cooperate with local specialists, making it easy to access property information based in the local area. There are also many properties that are cheaper than in urban areas, so they are also recommended for those who value value for money.

Do contract methods and screening procedures differ depending on the site?

The contract procedures for monthly apartments and the contents of the tenant screening process vary depending on the management company or operating company listed, not depending on the search site.

Generally, the screening process is relatively simple for short-term use, and there are many properties that do not require a guarantor or proof of income. However, there may be restrictions for foreign nationals and minors, so it is best to check the details of any properties you are interested in in advance by inquiring or requesting a quote.

summary

Choosing the best monthly apartment search site for your purpose and area is the shortcut to a comfortable and cost-effective stay. From major nationwide sites to comparison sites that specialize in areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, each has their own strengths.

Be sure to compare points such as the number of properties listed, clarity of fees, support system, and campaign information to find the site that best suits you. Choose the search site that best suits your needs and realize your ideal monthly lifestyle.