What you need to know first about living alone at Meiji University
When you start living alone at Meiji University, there are three things you should consider first: where to live, living expenses, and choosing a property.
Meiji University has four campuses in Izumi, Surugadai, Ikuta, and Nakano, and since the place of commuting varies depending on the faculty and year, choosing the area to live in is important. In addition, the cost of living in Tokyo is high compared to other parts of the country, so you need to be aware of your monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, and food in advance. Furthermore, when choosing a property, you should carefully consider the commute time, security, and surrounding environment.
How comfortable your life will be when you start living alone will depend greatly on how well you prepare. In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the information that will be useful for Meiji University students living alone.
Does the place of residence change depending on the campus?
Meiji University has multiple campuses, so where you live will vary greatly depending on where you commute to school.
For example, the Izumi Campus, where first and second year students attend, is closest to Meidaimae Station on the Keio Line. Popular residential areas include Shimotakaido, Eifukucho, and Sasazuka.
On the other hand, many faculties move to the Surugadai Campus in the third and fourth years. This area is convenient for commuting to school, around Ochanomizu Station, Suidobashi Station, and Jimbocho Station.
For science faculties, the Ikuta Campus is the target, and for the School of Global Japanese Studies, the Nakano Campus is the target, so choosing a line and area that has easy access to each campus will determine the comfort of living alone and the efficiency of commuting to school. It is important to consider the possibility of moving campus in the future.
Estimated initial costs and living expenses required for Meiji University students living alone
To start living alone around Meiji University, you will first need to pay some initial costs. When signing a lease for a rental property, you will have to pay a deposit, key money, agency fee, advance rent, etc., so it is best to expect an average of about 300,000 to 500,000 yen.
If you include the cost of purchasing furniture and appliances, the total initial costs can exceed 500,000 yen. The estimated monthly living expenses, including rent of 70,000 to 90,000 yen, utilities of 10,000 yen, food of 30,000 to 40,000 yen, and communication and entertainment expenses, are 120,000 to 150,000 yen in total.
The closer you are to the city center, the higher the rent, so you can keep costs down by choosing an area a little further out. By making a financial plan, you can start your student life with peace of mind.
How much money do they send home? Check out the part-time job situation too
Many Meiji University students living alone rely on part-time work in addition to receiving money from their parents.
On average nationwide, the average amount sent home is about 70,000 to 80,000 yen per month, and there are cases where students living in Tokyo receive more than 100,000 yen including rent. However, it is difficult to cover living expenses with just the allowance, so the majority of students earn about 50,000 to 70,000 yen per month from part-time jobs. The area around Meiji University has many job openings in cafes, restaurants, cram school instructors, etc., making it easy to balance work with school.
However, it is essential to manage your schedule so that your studies take priority. Understanding the balance of income and expenditure and securing a reasonable source of income are the keys to continuing to live alone.
Recommended areas for students attending Meiji University to live alone and average rent
When students attending Meiji University are looking to live alone, the convenience of commuting and the average rent are important points. The university has four campuses, each with its own nearest station and popular area.
For example, the Izumi Campus is located along the Keio Line, while the Surugadai Campus is located along the JR and subway lines in the city center. If you want to shorten your commute time, we recommend choosing an area within walking distance of the campus or within 10 to 20 minutes by train. Stations closer to the city center tend to have higher rent, but if you live a little further away, you can commute to school while keeping costs down.
In this article, we will explain in detail the recommended areas near each campus and the average rent prices.
Stations and average rents for easy commute to Izumi Campus
For students commuting to the Izumi Campus, the area around Meidaimae Station on the Keio Line and Keio Inokashira Line is the most popular. Meidaimae is conveniently located, just a 5-minute walk from the station to the campus, and its ease of commuting is its greatest attraction. The average rent for a one-room or 1K apartment is a little on the high side, at around 70,000 to 90,000 yen, but it is recommended for students who value convenience.
The nearby Shimotakaido Station and Eifukucho Station are also popular options, with rents ranging from 60,000 to 80,000 yen, making them slightly more reasonable. Shimotakaido has a large shopping district and is convenient for daily life. Eifukucho, on the other hand, is a quiet residential area, making it suitable for students who prefer a quiet environment. The Keio Line is also well-connected, with excellent access to Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Stations and average rents for easy access to Surugadai Campus
For students commuting to the Surugadai Campus, we recommend the areas around Ochanomizu Station on the JR Chuo Line, Suidobashi Station on the Toei Mita Line, and Jimbocho Station on the Tokyo Metro.
These areas are within walking distance of Meiji University's main campus, making commuting less stressful. Because they are located in the city center, the average rent is on the higher side, with a studio apartment costing around 100,000 to 130,000 yen, and a 1K apartment costing around 130,000 to 150,000 yen. However, there are many bookstores, cafes, and restaurants around the stations, making it easy to spend your time between studying and part-time work.
If you have the budget, this area offers both the convenience of commuting to school and the benefits of city life. You can also cut costs by considering living in a shared house.
Information about the Ikuta and Nakano campuses
The Ikuta Campus, where the Faculty of Science and Technology and Faculty of Agriculture are located, is located in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and the nearest station is Ikuta Station on the Odakyu Line. Rent is cheaper than in the city center, and many one-room apartments can be found for 50,000 to 60,000 yen. There is also a lot of nature, making it perfect for those who want to live a student life in a calm environment.
On the other hand, the Nakano Campus is located near Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and is easily accessible from Shinjuku. The average rent is a little high, at around 70,000 to 100,000 yen, but there are plenty of commercial facilities and restaurants around the station, making it a convenient living environment.
Each campus has its own area characteristics, so choose a location that suits your lifestyle.
Areas for people who want to keep rent low
For students who want to keep rent as low as possible, areas a little further from the city center, such as Chofu or Koenji, are recommended.
The area around Chofu Station on the Keio Line has good access to the Izumi and Ikuta campuses, and the average rent for a one-room apartment is in the 50,000 to 60,000 yen range. There are also plenty of commercial facilities, making it an attractive area with low living costs.
Koenji Station is located on the Chuo Line, making it convenient for commuting to the Surugadai and Nakano campuses. Rents range from 60,000 to 80,000 yen, and there are many reasonably priced properties for students. Koenji is also known as a town with a deep subculture and vintage clothing culture, making it popular with students who value individuality. This is a recommended area for those who want a good balance between transportation access and rent.
Property types for Meiji University students
Meiji University students have a wide variety of housing options to choose from. Typical options include student dormitories, student apartments and student halls, regular rental apartments and condominiums, and share houses, which have been gaining attention in recent years.
Each property type has different rent, security, facilities, freedom, ease of interaction with others, etc. For example, if you are worried about living alone for the first time, a dormitory or student hall is a safe choice, while if you value freedom, regular rental properties or shared houses are also options.
The first step to a comfortable student life is to choose a place to live that suits your personality, lifestyle, and budget.
The pros and cons of student dormitories (MGV, recommended dormitories, Wakeijuku, etc.)
Meiji University's student dormitories include the international mixed-use "Meiji University Global Village (MGV)" and "Komae International House," recommended student dormitories (affiliated dormitories), and the traditional "Wakeijuku."
The advantage of student dormitories is that they offer excellent security and life support. They come with furniture and appliances, meals are provided, and there is a manager on-site, so you can start living alone for the first time with peace of mind. Another attractive feature is the opportunity to interact with students from other universities and expand your international network.
On the other hand, there may be curfews and other rules, which can make you feel like you have little freedom. The costs may also be a little higher than regular rentals, so be sure to check in advance.
Student apartments and halls (Unilife, Najic, etc.)
Student apartments and student halls are rental housing designed for students and are managed by specialist companies such as Unilife and Nagic.
These properties are highly secure and convenient, with features such as auto-locks, security cameras, and delivery boxes, and are especially popular with parents. Many of the properties come with furniture and appliances, which helps keep moving costs down. Some properties also offer plans with meals included, which some say makes it easier to regulate their daily routine.
The downside is that rent tends to be a little higher than regular rental properties, and depending on the location, it may be far from the station. However, it is a great option for students who value safety and comfort.
General rental apartments and condominiums
If you value freedom, we recommend regular rental apartments and condominiums. There are many options for layout, rent, location, and facilities, so it is easy to find a property that suits your lifestyle. It is also easy to move every time you renew your lease, so you can flexibly respond to your life stage or campus change.
However, you will need to handle the contract procedures and deal with any problems yourself, which may make you feel anxious if it's your first time living alone. Be sure to check the crime prevention, living environment, commuting time, etc. before making your selection. With the support of a real estate agency, even beginners can move in with peace of mind.
Share house option
Recently, "share houses" have become a popular option, allowing you to keep costs down while still enjoying social interactions. In this style, multiple people share the kitchen, living room, bathroom, and toilet, while still having privacy in their own rooms.
The rent is relatively cheap, and many properties come with furniture and appliances, so it is easy to keep initial costs down. Another benefit is that you can build new relationships with other students and working adults by living together.
On the other hand, living with others can be stressful, as it can be difficult to use shared spaces, make noise, etc. There are share house properties dotted around Meiji University, and if it suits your lifestyle, it can be a cost-effective option.
How to search for properties and recommended sites
For students who have decided to go to Meiji University or are planning to go there, it is important to start preparing early for finding a place to live alone. In particular, popular areas fill up quickly, so it is important to act with plenty of time in your schedule.
There are various ways to search, such as using real estate websites or using university-affiliated services. By using websites such as SUUMO, LIFULL HOME'S, and Meiji University Support, you can efficiently find properties that meet your desired conditions. Another advantage is that if you choose a property that allows "pre-acceptance reservations," you can reserve it without waiting for the results of your acceptance.
In this chapter, we will introduce when to start looking for a property, specific methods, and useful websites.
When should you start looking?
The best time to start looking for a property is from December of the year before your enrollment to February of the following year. During this time, many properties for new students will be on the market, giving you a wide range of options. Many people start looking after their acceptance is announced, but good properties in popular areas may already be taken.
Especially in the area around Meiji University's Izumi Campus (Meidaimae, Shimotakaido, etc.), competition is high every year, so acting early is key. For those who have already decided to go to university through recommendation or comprehensive selection (formerly AO), it is best to start taking action within the year. Even in the case of general selection, if you start gathering information at the same time as applying in January, you will be able to take action immediately after being accepted, which will make things smoother.
What properties can be reserved before passing the exam?
"Pre-admission reservations" is a service that allows you to reserve the property you want before the university results are announced. Even if you haven't decided which university to go to, you can reserve a popular property in advance, so it is very effective, especially in areas with high competition. Many properties do not charge cancellation fees even if you cancel after the results are announced, so there is little risk involved.
Student rental services such as Unilife, Najic, and Meiji University Support introduce many properties that can be reserved before you pass the entrance exam. If you have already decided on your university of choice, you can make tentative reservations for properties around multiple universities. This is a system that we recommend you take advantage of if you want to start living alone in the spring with peace of mind.
How to make the most of real estate sites and university-affiliated services
To make your property search go smoothly, it is important to use real estate portal sites and Meiji University's affiliated services wisely. Major sites such as SUUMO and LIFULL HOME'S allow you to search for your ideal property efficiently by using filters such as train station, commute time, and rent range from a wide range of property information.
On the other hand, Meiji University's "Meiji University Support" and affiliated real estate companies introduce properties that emphasize safety and convenience for students, and you can also get information on dormitories and student halls. In addition, at the "Room Search Consultation Sessions" held on campus, you can directly consult with staff from real estate companies, so even first-timers can feel at ease.
Recommended rental properties for singles near Meiji University
In this chapter, we will introduce recommended rental properties for those who are considering living alone around Meiji University.
Luomu K Akatsutsumi
Luomu K Akatsutsumi is a rental apartment located about a 4-minute walk from Shimotakaido Station on the Keio Line and Tokyu Setagaya Line. Shimotakaido Station has good access to Meiji University Izumi Campus and is a popular area among students.
There are supermarkets and restaurants around the property, making it highly convenient for daily life. It is also located in a quiet residential area, allowing you to concentrate on your studies in a calm environment. Security equipment such as auto-locks and security cameras are also in place, so you can feel safe even if it is your first time living alone. The room is equipped with a system kitchen and separate sink to support a comfortable life.
The rent is reasonable compared to the surrounding area, making this a great value for money property.
Diamond Heights Sasazuka
"Diamond Heights Sasazuka" is a rental apartment located about a 3-minute walk from Sasazuka Station on the Keio Line. Sasazuka Station has good access to Meiji University Izumi Campus, making it a convenient location for commuting to school.
There are plenty of shopping malls, convenience stores, cafes, and other facilities necessary for daily life in the area. The building is made of reinforced concrete and is highly earthquake-resistant, and is fully equipped with shared facilities such as elevators and delivery boxes. The interior is a spacious one-room type with plenty of storage space. The apartment is equipped with facilities ideal for single living, such as separate bathroom and toilet, and an indoor washing machine space.
The rent is reasonable compared to similar properties in the area, making it an attractive property for students.
VERA
"VERA" is a designer apartment located a 5-minute walk from Eifukucho Station on the Inokashira Line and an 8-minute bike ride from Meidaimae Station on the Keio Line. Meidaimae Station is the closest station to Meiji University's Izumi Campus, and a major attraction is the reduced commute time.
The property features a stylish exterior and interior design, and is a designer room equipped with furniture and appliances. It is equipped with a full range of security features, including an auto-lock and a monitored intercom, so even women living alone can feel safe. The room is equipped with the latest equipment, including an induction cooking heater, air conditioner, and bathroom dryer, to support a comfortable life.
The rent is relatively low for a designer property, making it ideal for those looking for a home that combines design and functionality.
Eliminate the worries and concerns of living alone for the first time
Students who enter Meiji University and live alone for the first time will inevitably have some worries and concerns. They will have to manage their finances, their daily routine, safety measures, and all the other things that they used to do at home. However, if you keep the key points in mind and prepare, there is no need to worry.
In this article, we will introduce practical solutions to problems that many students face, such as "saving on living expenses," "crime prevention in Tokyo," and "selecting convenient items to bring." We will explain in detail so that you can start living alone for the first time with peace of mind.
Tips for saving on living expenses (food, utility bills, communication costs, etc.)
Food, utilities, and communication costs make up a large proportion of living expenses for a single person.
The key to saving money on food is to avoid eating out and cook at home instead. By using freezing and bulk buying, you can keep costs down while still getting a balanced diet.
When it comes to utility bills, some tips for saving money are to turn off power regularly, install LED lighting, and pay attention to air conditioner temperature settings.
You can save several thousand yen a month on communication costs by choosing a cheap SIM or internet line with a student discount. By combining these, you can save 10,000 to 20,000 yen a month. Cost management is key when living alone. Choose a method that allows you to save money while still being able to continue without straining yourself.
Things to be aware of when living in Tokyo for the first time
Living alone in Tokyo is convenient, but it is also important to be aware of crime prevention. When choosing a property, it is safest to choose one with an automatic lock, on the second floor or higher, and preferably with a resident manager.
When viewing the property, make sure to check whether the roads are dark at night and whether your route home is a busy street. In addition, small daily actions such as locking the front door and always checking the monitor before answering the intercom are directly related to safety. For women in particular, it is also effective to avoid hanging laundry outside and use blackout curtains.
Be mindful of creating an environment where students can live their lives with peace of mind.
How to choose convenient items and furniture for living alone
Many people who are moving out alone for the first time may have trouble deciding what furniture and appliances they need. Basically, you will need a set of six items: a bed, a desk, a chair, a refrigerator, a washing machine, and a microwave.
In addition, it would be convenient to have a rice cooker, electric kettle, extension cord, vacuum cleaner, etc. When purchasing, it is recommended to keep in mind three points: space saving, multi-functionality, and low power consumption. A "bed with storage" that fits into a limited space and compact but powerful home appliances are a great help for people living alone.
Also, if you choose a property that comes with furniture and appliances, you can significantly reduce your initial costs. It's also a smart idea to start with the bare minimum and then add more as you need them.
summary
The key to living alone at Meiji University is choosing a place to live, estimating living expenses, and understanding the type of property. Since the areas that are easy to commute to and the average rent vary greatly depending on the campus, it is very important to gather information in advance.
There are many housing options, such as student dormitories, student apartments, and general rental properties, so find a home that suits your lifestyle and budget. Also, for those who are unsure about life in Tokyo, learning about money-saving tips and crime prevention measures will give you peace of mind when you start.
Make sure you are well prepared so that your new life at Meiji University is comfortable and fulfilling.
