Things you should know before living alone as a Meiji University student
When starting to live alone at Meiji University, there are three things you should keep in mind: "where to live," "living expenses," and "choosing an apartment."
Meiji University has four campuses: Izumi, Surugadai, Ikuta, and Nakano. Since the campus you commute to will vary depending on your faculty and year of study, choosing the right area to live in is crucial. In addition, Tokyo has a high cost of living compared to the rest of the country, so you need to be aware of your monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, and food beforehand. Furthermore, when choosing a property, carefully consider factors such as commute time, security, and the surrounding environment.
The comfort level of your first experience living alone depends greatly on your preparation. This article provides easy-to-understand information to help Meiji University students living alone.
Does your living situation vary depending on the campus?
Meiji University has multiple campuses, so where you live will vary greatly depending on which campus you attend.
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, in the third and fourth years, many faculties move to the Surugadai Campus. This area is conveniently located around Ochanomizu Station, Suidobashi Station, and Jimbocho Station.
For science and engineering faculties, the Ikuta Campus is the relevant location, while for faculties such as the Faculty of International Japanese Studies, the Nakano Campus is the target location. Therefore, choosing a train line and area that provides easy access to each campus will significantly impact the comfort of living alone and the efficiency of commuting. It's also important to consider future campus transfers when making your decision.
Estimated initial costs and living expenses for students living alone at Meiji University
To start living alone near Meiji University, you'll first need to factor in initial costs. When signing a lease for a rental property, you'll need to pay a security deposit, key money, brokerage fees, and advance rent, so it's safe to budget around 300,000 to 500,000 yen on average.
Including the cost of purchasing furniture and appliances, the total initial expenses can exceed 500,000 yen. Monthly living expenses are roughly 120,000 to 150,000 yen, 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 social expenses.
Rent tends to be higher the closer you are to the city center, so choosing an area slightly outside the city center can help reduce costs. By creating a financial plan, you can start your student life with peace of mind.
How much allowance do they receive? Also, check their part-time job situation.
Many Meiji University students living alone rely on part-time jobs in addition to financial support from their families.
On average nationwide, monthly allowances are typically around 70,000 to 80,000 yen, and students living in Tokyo sometimes receive over 100,000 yen including rent. However, it's difficult to cover living expenses with allowances alone, so the majority of students earn around 50,000 to 70,000 yen per month through part-time jobs. The area around Meiji University is characterized by an abundance of job opportunities in cafes, restaurants, and as tutors, making it easy to balance work and studies.
However, prioritizing academics in your schedule is essential. Understanding your income and expenses and securing income sources within reasonable limits is key to continuing to live independently.
Recommended areas for students attending Meiji University to live alone and average rent prices.
For students attending Meiji University who are considering living alone, the convenience of commuting and the average rent are important factors. The university has four campuses, each with different nearest stations and popular areas.
For example, the Izumi campus is located along the Keio Line, while the Surugadai campus is mainly located along JR and subway lines in central Tokyo. If you want to shorten your commute time, it's recommended to choose an area within walking distance of the campus or within 10-20 minutes by train. Rents tend to be higher near stations closer to the city center, but you can commute while keeping costs down by choosing a location a little further away.
This article provides a detailed explanation of recommended areas near each campus and their average rent prices.
Stations and average rents that are easily accessible to the Izumi Campus
For students attending the Izumi Campus, the area around Meidaimae Station on the Keio Line and Keio Inokashira Line is the most popular. Meidaimae boasts an excellent location, just a 5-minute walk from the station to the campus, making commuting its biggest appeal. While the average rent for a studio or 1K apartment is somewhat high, at around 70,000 to 90,000 yen, it's recommended for students who prioritize convenience.
Nearby Shimotakaido Station and Eifukucho Station are also popular choices, with slightly more reasonable rents ranging from 60,000 to 80,000 yen. Shimotakaido boasts a well-developed shopping street and is convenient for daily life. On the other hand, Eifukucho is a quiet residential area, suitable for students who prefer a peaceful environment. The Keio Line offers excellent transportation links, with superb access to Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Stations and average rents that are easily accessible to the Surugadai campus
For students attending the Surugadai Campus, the areas around JR Chuo Line's Ochanomizu Station, Toei Mita Line's Suidobashi Station, and Tokyo Metro's Jimbocho Station are recommended.
These areas are within walking distance of Meiji University's main campus, making commuting less stressful. Because they are located in the city center, rents are on the higher side, with studio apartments costing around 100,000 to 130,000 yen and 1K apartments costing around 130,000 to 150,000 yen. However, the areas around the stations have many bookstores, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to make the most of your time between studying and part-time jobs.
If your budget allows, this area offers a good balance between a comfortable commute and the benefits of city living. Considering options like shared housing can also help reduce costs.
Surrounding conditions of the Ikuta and Nakano campuses
The Ikuta Campus, where the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Faculty of Agriculture are located, is in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and the nearest station is Ikuta Station on the Odakyu Line. Rents are cheaper than in central Tokyo, and you can find many studio apartments for 50,000 to 60,000 yen. There is also plenty of nature, making it perfect for students who want to enjoy their student life in a calm environment.
On the other hand, the Nakano Campus is closest to Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and has good access from Shinjuku. The average rent is a bit high, around 70,000 to 100,000 yen, but the area around the station has plenty of commercial facilities and restaurants, making it a convenient place to live.
Each campus has different characteristics, so choose a location that suits your lifestyle.
Areas suitable for people who want to keep rent down.
For students who want to keep their rent down as much as possible, areas slightly further from the city center, such as Chofu and Koenji, are recommended.
The area around Chofu Station on the Keio Line offers good access to both the Izumi and Ikuta campuses, and the average rent for a 1K apartment is around 50,000 to 60,000 yen. The area also boasts ample commercial facilities, making it attractive for those looking to keep their living costs down.
Koenji Station is located along the Chuo Line, making it convenient for commuting to the Surugadai and Nakano campuses. Rent ranges from 60,000 to 80,000 yen, with many affordable options available for students. Koenji is also known as a town with a strong subculture and vintage clothing scene, making it popular with students who value individuality. This area is recommended for those who prioritize a balance between transportation access and rent.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
Property types suitable for Meiji University students
Students attending Meiji University have a wide variety of housing options to choose from. Typical options include student dormitories, student apartments/student halls, regular rental apartments/condominiums, and, more recently, share houses.
Each type of property differs in terms of rent, security, facilities, freedom, and ease of interaction with neighbors. For example, dormitories and student residences are reassuring for those who are anxious about living alone for the first time, while regular rentals and shared houses are also options if freedom is a priority.
Choosing accommodation that suits your personality, lifestyle, and budget is the first step to a comfortable student life.
Advantages and disadvantages of student dormitories (MGV, recommended dormitories, Wakeijuku, etc.)
Meiji University offers a variety of student dormitories, including the internationally-oriented "Meiji University Global Village (MGV)," "Komae International House," recommended student dormitories (affiliated dormitories), and the traditional "Wakeijuku."
The advantages of student dormitories include excellent security and comprehensive support for daily life. With furnished rooms, meal services, and on-site managers, even those living alone for the first time can start their independent life with peace of mind. Furthermore, opportunities for interaction with students from other universities and the expansion of international networks are also attractive.
On the other hand, there may be curfews or rules regarding daily life, which can make you feel less free. The cost may also be slightly higher than for regular rentals, so be sure to check carefully beforehand.
Student apartments and student dormitories (Unilife, Nasic, etc.)
Student apartments and student dormitories are rental housing designed specifically for students and are managed by specialized companies such as Unilife and Nasic.
These properties boast excellent security and convenience, featuring automatic locks, security cameras, and parcel delivery boxes, and are particularly trusted by parents. Many also come furnished with appliances, which helps reduce moving costs. Some properties even offer meal plans, which some residents find helpful in establishing a regular routine.
The downsides include a tendency for rent to be slightly higher than regular rentals, and in some cases, the location may be far from the station. However, it's a perfect option for students who prioritize safety and comfort.
General rental apartments and condominiums
If you prioritize flexibility, regular rental apartments and condominiums are recommended. A major advantage is the wide range of options available, including floor plans, rent, location, and amenities, making it easy to find a property that suits your lifestyle. Furthermore, it's easy to move each time your lease is renewed, allowing for flexibility in adapting to life stages and campus changes.
However, you will need to handle contract procedures and trouble-solving yourself, which may be daunting for someone living alone for the first time. Make sure to carefully check security, living environment, and commute time before choosing a place. With the support of a real estate agency, even beginners can move in with peace of mind.
The option of living in a shared house
Recently, "share houses" have become a popular option, offering a balance of cost savings and social interaction. This style involves sharing the kitchen, living room, bathroom, and toilet with multiple residents, while maintaining privacy in individual rooms.
The relatively low rent and the availability of furnished apartments make it easy to keep initial costs down, which is a major advantage. Another benefit is the opportunity to build new relationships through communal living with other students and working professionals.
On the other hand, some people may find living with others stressful due to issues such as how to use shared spaces and noise, so it's not for everyone. There are several share house properties scattered around Meiji University, and if it suits your lifestyle, it can be a cost-effective option.
How to find a property and recommended websites
For students who have been accepted to or are planning to attend Meiji University, it's crucial to start preparing early when looking for an apartment to live alone. Popular areas, in particular, fill up quickly, so it's important to act with plenty of time to spare.
There are various ways to find a property, including using real estate websites and university-affiliated services. Utilizing sites like SUUMO, LIFULL HOME'S, and Meiji University Support will allow you to efficiently find properties that meet your desired conditions. Furthermore, choosing properties that allow "pre-acceptance reservations" offers the advantage of being able to tentatively reserve a property without waiting for the acceptance results.
This chapter will introduce when to start your property search, specific methods, and useful websites.
When should I start looking?
The best time to look for a place to live is generally from December of the year before enrollment to February of the following year. During this period, many properties suitable for new students become available on the market, offering a wide range of choices. Many people start looking after the acceptance announcement, but good properties in popular areas may already be taken.
The area around Meiji University's Izumi Campus (including Meidaimae and Shimotakaido) is particularly competitive every year, so early action is key. If you've already secured admission through recommendation or comprehensive selection (formerly AO), it's best to start planning before the end of the year. Even for general selection, starting to gather information at the same time as submitting your application in January will allow you to act quickly and smoothly after being accepted.
What properties allow reservations before passing the exam?
"Pre-acceptance reservation" is a service that allows you to tentatively reserve your desired property before the university acceptance announcement. Even if you haven't decided to attend university, you can secure popular properties in advance, making it particularly effective in highly competitive areas. Many properties also have no cancellation fees even if you cancel after the acceptance announcement, making it a low-risk option.
Student rental services such as Unilife, Nasic, and Meiji University Support offer numerous properties that can be reserved before acceptance. If you have a few universities in mind, you can also make provisional reservations for properties around multiple universities. This is a system that we highly recommend for anyone who wants to start living alone with peace of mind in the spring.
How to effectively use real estate websites and university partnership services
To make your property search go smoothly, the key is to wisely utilize real estate portal sites and Meiji University's partner services. Major sites like SUUMO and LIFULL HOME'S allow you to search for properties based on various criteria from a wide range of listings, and by using filters such as station, commute time, and rent range, you can efficiently find your ideal property.
On the other hand, Meiji University's "Meidai Support" program and its affiliated real estate companies introduce properties that prioritize safety and convenience for students, and information on dormitories and student residences is also available. In addition, at the "Room Search Consultation Sessions" held on campus, you can consult directly with real estate company staff, making it reassuring even for first-timers.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
Recommended rental properties for single people near Meiji University
This chapter will introduce recommended rental properties for those considering living alone near Meiji University.
Luomu K Akatsutsumi
"Luomu K Akatsutsumi" is a rental apartment located approximately a 4-minute walk from Shimotakaido Station on the Keio Line and Tokyu Setagaya Line. Shimotakaido Station offers excellent access to Meiji University's Izumi Campus and is a popular area for students.
The property is conveniently located near supermarkets and restaurants, making it ideal for daily life. It's also situated in a quiet residential area, providing a peaceful environment for studying. Security features such as an automatic lock and security cameras ensure peace of mind, even for those living alone for the first time. The interior includes a system kitchen and a separate washbasin, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
The rent is reasonable compared to the surrounding market rate, making this property excellent value for money.
Daiya Heights Sasazuka
"Dia Heights Sasazuka" is a rental apartment building located approximately a 3-minute walk from Sasazuka Station on the Keio Line. Sasazuka Station offers convenient access to Meiji University's Izumi Campus, making it an ideal location for students.
The property is surrounded by numerous shopping malls, convenience stores, cafes, and other amenities necessary for daily life. The building is made of reinforced concrete, offering excellent earthquake resistance, and is equipped with shared facilities such as elevators and parcel lockers. The interior is a spacious studio apartment with ample storage space. It also features amenities ideal for single living, such as a separate bathroom and toilet, and an in-unit washing machine space.
The rent is reasonable compared to similar properties in the area, making it an attractive option for students.
VERA
"VERA" is a designer apartment located a 5-minute walk from Eifukucho Station on the Inokashira Line and about an 8-minute bike ride from Meidaimae Station on the Keio Line. Meidaimae Station is the closest station to Meiji University's Izumi Campus, making it a very attractive option for those looking to shorten their commute time.
This property features a stylish exterior and interior, and comes furnished with furniture and appliances. It boasts excellent security features, including an automatic lock and a video intercom, making it safe even for women living alone. The rooms are equipped with the latest amenities, such as an induction cooktop, air conditioning, and a bathroom dryer, to support a comfortable lifestyle.
The rent is relatively low for a designer property, making it ideal for those seeking a home that combines design and functionality.
Let's overcome the anxieties and worries of living alone for the first time.
For students attending Meiji University who are living alone for the first time, anxiety and worries are inevitable. Managing household finances, maintaining a daily routine, and taking safety precautions—everything they took for granted while living at home—must be handled independently. However, there's no need to worry if you prepare by focusing on key points.
This article offers practical solutions to common student concerns such as "saving money on living expenses," "safety measures in Tokyo," and "choosing useful items to bring." We provide detailed explanations to help you start living alone with confidence, even if it's your first time.
Tips for saving on living expenses (food, utilities, communication costs, etc.)
Food, utilities, and communication expenses make up a large portion of living expenses for someone living alone.
To save money on food, the basic principle is to reduce eating out and focus on cooking at home. Utilizing freezing and bulk buying can help keep costs down while maintaining a balanced diet.
When it comes to saving on utility bills, key tips include turning off appliances when not in use, installing LED lighting, and paying attention to the temperature settings of your air conditioner.
You can save several thousand yen a month on communication costs by choosing a budget SIM card or internet plan with student discounts. Combining these can lead to savings of 10,000 to 20,000 yen per month. Cost management is key when living alone. Choose a method that allows you to save money without overextending yourself.
Things to be careful about regarding safety when living in Tokyo for the first time.
Living alone in Tokyo offers convenience, but it's also important to be mindful of security. When choosing an apartment, look for one with an automatic lock, on the second floor or higher, and ideally with a resident manager.
When viewing a property, check if the street is well-lit at night and if your route home is along a busy street. Also, remember to lock the front door and always check the monitor before answering the intercom; small daily actions directly impact safety. For women in particular, avoiding hanging laundry outside and using blackout curtains are also effective safety precautions.
Let's focus on creating an environment where students can enjoy their student life with peace of mind.
How to choose essential items, furniture, and appliances for living alone
Many people struggle to choose the necessary furniture and appliances when living alone for the first time. Basically, you'll need a bed, desk, chair, refrigerator, washing machine, and microwave – a set of six essential items.
Furthermore, appliances such as a rice cooker, electric kettle, extension cord, and vacuum cleaner are also convenient. When purchasing, it's recommended to keep three things in mind: space-saving, multi-functional, and low power consumption. A "bed with storage" that fits in a limited space, and compact yet powerful appliances are great allies for those living alone.
Furthermore, choosing a property that comes furnished with appliances can significantly reduce initial costs. Starting with the bare minimum and purchasing additional items as needed is also a smart approach.
Search for a room
Only furnished properties with appliances are listed!
summary
Living alone at Meiji University hinges on choosing the right place to live, estimating living expenses, and understanding the different types of properties available. Since convenient areas and average rent vary greatly depending on the campus, gathering information beforehand is crucial.
With a wide variety of housing options available, including student dormitories, student apartments, and regular rentals, you can find a place that suits your lifestyle and budget. Furthermore, even if you're feeling anxious about living in Tokyo, knowing some money-saving tips and security measures will help you start with confidence.
Let's make sure you're well-prepared so that your new life at Meiji University is comfortable and fulfilling.
