Looking to start living alone in Osaka? Three points to consider when choosing an area

When starting to live alone in Osaka, the first big decision you will face is which area to live in.

Choosing the area you live in is a very important factor that directly affects the comfort and security of your life thereafter.

If you make a hasty decision just because the rent is low, you may end up with complaints or problems later on, such as "the streets are dark and I feel uneasy at night," "the commute is long," or "the building is old and difficult to live in."

There are many convenient and livable areas in and around Osaka that are ideal for living alone, but it is important to identify a place that suits your lifestyle.

There are three points to pay particular attention to: "safety," "convenience of transportation access," and "balance between rent and property." Checking these points thoroughly in advance and choosing an area where you can live safely is the first step to living alone without any problems.

Public safety and peace of mind on the streets at night are our top priorities

When living alone, a big factor is whether or not you feel safe in the area around your home.

Especially for women and students, it is very important to have a safe environment even when returning home late at night. Even within Osaka city, the security situation varies depending on the area, and points to consider include the number of street lights, the presence or absence of people, and the installation of security cameras.

For example, Kita-ku, Nishi-ku, and Fukushima-ku are relatively safe areas, and the streets tend to be well-lit at night.

On the other hand, areas a little outside the city center or close to downtown areas may be at higher risk of noise and other problems. It's a good idea to check the number of police stations and police boxes, as well as the number of crimes that have occurred in the past, to be on the safe side.

To ensure you can live there for a long time with peace of mind, be sure to check the safety aspect without compromising.

Check access to work and school

When considering daily commutes to work or school, good accessibility greatly affects livability.

Osaka has a well-developed railway network, with subways, private railways, and JR lines crisscrossing the city, but the number of transfers, congestion, and travel times can be stressful.

For example, by choosing an area with good access to Umeda, Honmachi, Tennoji, etc., you can reduce your commute time and have more flexibility in your lifestyle.

In addition, the distance from the nearest station to your home and the safety of the roads are also important. Properties close to stations tend to have higher rents, but considering the convenience and sense of security, they are worth investing in to a certain extent.

Even if you are considering moving in the future, good accessibility is directly linked to the asset value and the ease of finding tenants.

A good balance between rent and property quality

When living alone in Osaka, rent is a fixed monthly expense that has a major impact on your life.

Generally, rent should be less than one-third of your take-home income, so choosing an area that fits your budget is important.

However, focusing only on low prices may lead to dissatisfaction with properties such as "old buildings," "poor facilities," and "poor surrounding areas."

For example, you may be able to find a spacious, new property for the same rent if you live a little further from the city center. On the other hand, if the access to your workplace or school is poor, your daily expenses will increase.

The trick to choosing an area you won't regret is to determine the balance between rent, property quality, and the surrounding environment, and clearly decide which conditions to prioritize within your budget.

Top 10 popular areas in Osaka recommended for living alone

When starting to live alone in Osaka, everyone has different standards for what makes a place "easy to live in."

For example, the city you choose will depend on your lifestyle and priorities, such as "I want an area that's easy to commute to," "I want to keep rent as low as possible but I'm also concerned about public safety," or "I want to enjoy visiting cafes and shopping on my days off."

Osaka is home to towns with diverse personalities, and some people value the convenience of the city center, while others prefer to live a relaxed life in a quiet residential area.

In this article, we will introduce 10 recommended areas in Osaka suitable for living alone, based on various perspectives such as transportation access, convenience for living, safety, and average rent.

Use this as a reference to find the city that's perfect for you and start living alone without regrets.

1. Tennoji (Tennoji Ward) | A versatile town with everything you need for shopping, entertainment, and transportation

Tennoji is a popular area in Osaka city that boasts outstanding convenience and living facilities.

The area is highly convenient for transportation, with JR, subway, and Kintetsu all integrating into the area, allowing direct access to Umeda and Namba without transfers.

There are also commercial facilities such as Tennoji MIO and Abeno Harukas, a zoo and an art museum, so you can enjoy everything from shopping to leisure activities on your days off within walking distance.

There are also many universities and vocational schools, and the city is known as a place where a wide range of people live, from students to working adults.

The average rent is a little on the high side, but it's well worth it for those who value convenience.

It is especially popular with women living alone, and the area around the station is safe as it is well-lit even at night and has a lot of foot traffic.

2. Fukushima (Fukushima Ward) | A good balance of walking distance to Umeda and a calm living environment

Fukushima is a popular area with a quiet residential area, yet is within walking distance of Umeda.

Another plus is that you can use the JR Osaka Loop Line, Tozai Line, and Hanshin Main Line, making it convenient for commuting to work or school.

There are many stylish restaurants and cafes scattered around the area, making it a great place for people who like to eat out. There are also parks and schools nearby, making it a perfect place for people who want to live in a calm environment.

The area is safe even at night, making it a good place for women living alone.

Considering the high level of convenience, the average rent is relatively low, making this an excellent value for the money.

If your workplace is in the Umeda or Honmachi area, this is one of the areas you should consider first.

3. Bentencho (Minato Ward) | A hidden popular spot in the bay area where you can feel the sea breeze

Bentencho is a notable area that continues to develop as the gateway to the Osaka Bay Area.

Two lines, the JR Loop Line and the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, are available, making it extremely accessible, with Osaka Station only eight minutes away.

Despite being in the bay area, the area has a stable public safety environment, and the large complex, Osaka Bay Tower, has supermarkets and hot spring facilities, so there are no inconveniences in daily life.

The average rent in this area is more moderate than in the center of the city, making it popular with people living alone who value value for money. As redevelopment is underway, this area is also expected to see an increase in asset value in the future.

It is the perfect choice for those looking for a tranquil lifestyle.

4. Tamatsukuri (Chuo Ward) | A quiet residential area that combines history and convenience

Tamatsukuri is a hidden gem in Chuo Ward, Osaka City, that combines access to the city center with a relaxed residential atmosphere. Two lines, the JR Osaka Loop Line and the Nagahori Tsurumi Ryokuchi Line, are available, allowing smooth commuting to Umeda and Shinsaibashi.

The area is dotted with historical sites such as castle ruins and parks, and the tranquil townscape is relaxing. It is also a relatively safe area with many long-time residents, making it a safe place for women to live alone.

There are also a reasonable number of supermarkets and restaurants, making the area very convenient for daily life.

It has the perfect balance of warmth like a downtown area while being close to the city center.

5. Tanimachi Rokuchome (Chuo Ward) | A hidden gem with a traditional atmosphere and great access

Tanimachi Rokuchome is a popular area in Chuo Ward that has a calm atmosphere despite being in the heart of the city.

Another plus is that you can use the Tanimachi Line and Nagahori Tsurumi-ryokuchi Line of the subway, meaning you can access Umeda and Shinsaibashi without having to transfer.

The area is also home to the Karahori Shopping Arcade and many historical buildings, creating a townscape filled with the atmosphere of a traditional downtown area. Stylish cafes and general stores are also dotted around the area, making it a popular area among young women and creators.

It's relatively quiet at night and the security is good, so it's a safe place for those living alone for the first time.

The average rent in this area is relatively low compared to other areas in Chuo Ward, and it is attracting attention as a "just right" area that combines convenience and a good living environment.

6. Ogimachi (Kita Ward) | A relaxing urban space within walking distance of Umeda and with many parks

Ogimachi is located in Kita-ku, Osaka city, but offers a peaceful living environment that is a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The nearest station, Ogimachi Station, is within walking distance of Umeda, and two subway lines, the Sakaisuji Line and the JR Loop Line, are also available.

There are public facilities such as Ogimachi Park and Kids Plaza Osaka in the surrounding area, creating an excellent balance between nature and urban functions. There are also many cafes and bookstores, creating an intellectual and peaceful atmosphere.

The rent is a little high for Kita Ward, but it will be within a reasonable price range for those who value convenient transportation and good public safety.

This area is especially recommended for those who live alone and value quality of life.

7. Nihonbashi (Naniwa Ward) | Close to Minami for a free lifestyle

Nihonbashi is a lively area close to the Minami area including Namba and Shinsaibashi.

Another plus point is that you can use the Sakaisuji and Sennichimae subway lines and the Kintetsu line, so you can get to anywhere with ease.

It is also known as a city of electronics and anime culture, and is home to many unique shops and restaurants.

Also, despite being close to the busy Minami area, the average rent is relatively reasonable.

There are also plenty of 24-hour supermarkets and restaurants, making the area a great place to live for those who prefer a nocturnal lifestyle.

If you don't mind a little variety, this is an area where you can live alone with a great deal of freedom.

8. Suita (Suita City) | Great rent and environment! A popular commuter town for students

Suita City is highly popular as a commuter town with good access to Osaka City and a good living environment. The JR Kyoto Line, Hankyu Senri Line, and Osaka Metro Midosuji Line are all accessible, making it convenient to get to Umeda and Honmachi with just one train ride.

There are many universities in the area, so it is popular with students and young workers. There are supermarkets and hospitals in front of the station, so you will not have any trouble with daily life. There are also many lush parks and quiet residential areas, so it is perfect for those who want to live a peaceful life.

Compared to the city center, rent is cheaper and it is easier to find larger rooms, so it is also recommended for those who are concerned about cost-effectiveness.

9. Miyakojima (Miyakojima Ward) | Direct access to Umeda & reasonable rent, perfect for living alone

Miyakojima-ku is attracting attention as a well-balanced area with relatively low average rent prices and good transport links, even though it is in Osaka city. The Tanimachi subway line can take you to Umeda and Tennoji without changing trains, making it convenient for commuting to work or school.

Another attractive feature is that all the necessary facilities for daily life are compactly located around the station, so you can do your daily errands within walking distance. The area is also relatively safe, with a police station and shopping district around the station, and you can feel the connection between the local residents.

There is a wide range of property types available, from studio apartments to 1K, 1DK and 1LDK, making it ideal for those living alone for the first time.

10. Mikuni (Yodogawa Ward) | A good balance between accessibility and rent

Mikuni is located in Yodogawa Ward, Osaka City, and is a highly convenient area with excellent access to Umeda and Shin-Osaka.

It is convenient for commuting as it takes only 10 minutes to Umeda via the Hankyu Takarazuka Line, and there are supermarkets, restaurants, and drugstores in front of the station, making daily life comfortable.

Even though the area is undergoing redevelopment, the average rent is relatively reasonable and it is easy to find spacious rooms. There are many parks in the surrounding area, and the calm living environment with little noise is also highly rated.

This is a highly-recognized area that has it all: accessibility, affordable rent, and ease of living.

Must-see for those who want to keep rent low! 5 recommended hidden areas in Osaka where you can live cheaply

When starting to live alone in Osaka, one thing that is particularly important is "low rent."

For people with limited budgets, such as students and new members of the workforce, keeping monthly fixed costs as low as possible is essential to living a comfortable life.

However, it would be ideal if the area wasn't just cheap; it also met other criteria such as good access from the station, relatively good public safety, and convenient location for everyday shopping.

There are several hidden gems in and around Osaka that offer easy commutes to major areas and reasonable rent. By choosing these areas, you can achieve a comfortable and safe life while keeping costs down.

In this chapter, we will introduce five carefully selected recommended areas in Osaka City that offer excellent value for money.

If you are looking to keep your rent as low as possible when choosing a place to live, be sure to use this as a reference.

Hirano (Hirano Ward) | Low rent and convenient living

Hirano Ward is one of the most populous wards in Osaka City, but the average rent is particularly low in the city, making it a very attractive area for living alone.

The Tanimachi subway line and JR lines are available, providing good access to Tennoji and Umeda.

There are large supermarkets, shopping streets, medical facilities, restaurants and more around the station, making it convenient for daily life.

The area is relatively safe, and its peaceful streets with a strong community-based atmosphere are an attractive point.

This is a particularly recommended area for those who want to keep initial costs down and lower their overall living costs.

Awaji (Higashiyodogawa Ward) | The convenience of Hankyu and JR and the tranquility of a student town

Awaji is located at the intersection of the Hankyu Kyoto Line, Senri Line, and JR Osaka Higashi Line, making it an area with excellent access to Umeda and Kyobashi.

It is close to educational institutions such as Kansai University, and many students and young workers live there, so the neighborhood is safe and has a peaceful atmosphere. There are plenty of supermarkets, drugstores, and restaurants in front of the station, so you won't have any trouble living here.

The average rent is set low even within Higashiyodogawa Ward, making it perfect for those looking for a convenient location while keeping costs down.

Future redevelopment is expected, making this a popular area that may become even more valuable as a place to live.

Abikocho (Sumiyoshi Ward) | A safe and affordable place in southern Osaka

Abikocho is a stop on the JR Hanwa Line, and despite its convenient location - just 15 minutes from Tennoji Station without transfers - it is known for having very low average rent.

There are shopping streets, restaurants, and supermarkets around the station, making it extremely convenient for daily life. The area is considered to be one of the safest areas in Sumiyoshi Ward, so it is safe for first-time residents to live alone. A short walk from the station is a quiet residential area, perfect for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle.

If you value cost-effectiveness, this is a hidden gem that we highly recommend in the southern Osaka area.

Imagawa (Higashisumiyoshi Ward) | Good access to the loop line

Imagawa is an area with excellent access, with multiple lines available, including Hirano Station on the JR Yamatoji Line and Imagawa Station on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line. It also has smooth access to Tennoji and Namba, making it extremely convenient for students and working adults commuting to the city center.

There are supermarkets, parks, and small shopping streets scattered around the area, creating a quiet and peaceful environment. The average rent is lower than the average for Osaka city, and one of the attractions is that you can find spacious 1K, 1DK, and 1LDK apartments at reasonable prices.

It is also suitable for those who are new to living alone, and is perfect for those who are looking for a "cheap and comfortable" lifestyle.

Nishinari Ward, Kishinosato Tamade | A notable area currently undergoing redevelopment

Nishinari Ward once had a deep image, but in recent years, due to redevelopment and efforts to improve public safety, young people are gradually moving in.

In particular, the area around Kishinosato Tamade Station is accessible via the Nankai Line and the Yotsubashi Subway Line, providing good access to the Namba area.

The average rent is among the lowest in the city, which is a great advantage for those who want to significantly reduce their initial costs.

The area around the station is still home to supermarkets, restaurants, public baths and other traditional scenes of daily life, giving it a unique sense of familiarity that is also one of its charms.

This is an area well worth considering for cost-conscious single people with a spirit of adventure.

5 safe cities recommended for women living alone

The most important thing for a woman to consider when starting to live alone in Osaka is "good public safety."

No matter how well-connected a property is or how cheap the rent is, if the streets are dark at night and the area is deserted, you may be forced to live in fear.

Especially when you are living alone for the first time, it is very important to have an environment where you can return home feeling safe and secure.

There are several towns in Osaka city and the surrounding areas that have good transportation access and shopping facilities, are relatively safe, and are highly popular among women.

This time, we will introduce 5 carefully selected "safe neighborhoods recommended for women living alone" that are particularly popular and highly rated by people who actually live there.

If you think safety is your number one priority, then this is the one to look at.

Kita Ward (Nakazakicho to Minamimorimachi) | Cafe culture and good public safety

The area from Nakazakicho to Minamimorimachi in Kita Ward, Osaka City, is adjacent to the Umeda area but has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a very popular area among women.

Nakazakicho is lined with fashionable cafes and second-hand clothing stores, and is an attractive area where you can enjoy a stroll while you live. It is relatively bright at night, and there are many people around, so it gives you a sense of security.

Minamimorimachi is a historic area with Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, and has many government offices and educational institutions, making it a safe and secure area. Another plus is the high level of transportation accessibility, with the Tanimachi and Sakaisuji subway lines.

Umeda is within walking distance, making this a great choice for those who want to enrich their work and personal lives.

Nishi Ward (Horie/Awaza) | A fashionable and quiet area popular with women

The Horie/Awaza area in Nishi Ward, Osaka City, is known as a town of fashion and interior design, and is a popular area among fashion-conscious women.

If you use the Yotsubashi Line or Chuo Line, you can access Shinsaibashi and Honmachi in about 5 minutes, making it convenient for commuting.

Horie is lined with fashionable general stores and cafes, and you can live in a sophisticated townscape.

On the other hand, Awaza is also popular as a residential area, and is said to be relatively quiet at night and has good public safety.

The biggest attraction of this area is that it is a little away from the downtown area, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of the city while avoiding the hustle and bustle.

Chuo Ward (Tenmabashi, Tamatsukuri) | Excellent access to major areas

The Temmabashi/Tamazukuri area of Chuo Ward is a well-balanced neighborhood that combines good public safety with excellent transport access.

Tenmabashi is characterized by a calm atmosphere, with many government offices and offices. There are large supermarkets and drugstores around the station, so you won't have any trouble with daily life.

Tamatsukuri is a historic residential area with a stable public safety record, and one of its attractions is that it is served by two lines, the subway and the JR. Another plus point is that it has excellent access to Umeda and Namba.

This area is perfect for women who want a quiet and secure living environment, but don't want to compromise on convenient transportation to work or school.

Fukushima Ward (Around Fukushima Station) | A calm living environment close to the station

The area around Fukushima Station in Fukushima Ward is located just west of the Umeda area, and is attracting attention as a quiet residential area. The area is also convenient for commuting, with the JR Osaka Loop Line and Hanshin Line available.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the station, but if you go down a small alleyway you'll find a quiet residential area where you can walk safely even at night. There are also many police stations and schools, and the crime prevention system is well established, making it an ideal place for women living alone.

This is a well-balanced option for those who want both convenience and safety.

Senri Chuo (Toyonaka City) | Safe and convenient even in the suburbs

Senri Chuo is a commuter town in the Hokusetsu area, a little way from Osaka city, and is a particularly safe area. Another point is that it is easily accessible to Umeda and Shinsaibashi via the Kita-Osaka Kyuko Line (direct connection to the Midosuji Line).

There are large shopping malls, hospitals, and government service facilities around the station, making daily life very convenient. The entire city is also neatly laid out, with many parks and green spaces, allowing you to live a relaxed and comfortable life.

Senri Chuo is a highly recommended area for women who want to live a quiet and safe life in the suburbs.

Save on initial costs and living expenses! Money-saving tips for living alone in Osaka

When starting to live alone in Osaka Prefecture, many people worry about practical issues such as the high initial costs and how to keep monthly living expenses down.

When signing a rental contract, you will need to pay a large sum of money, such as the deposit, key money, agency fee, advance rent, and fire insurance, and it is not uncommon for the expenses to be larger than expected.

Furthermore, if you have to pay for furniture and home appliances, it can become a huge burden when starting a new life.

In this article, we will introduce some specific money-saving tips to help you keep down initial costs and living expenses when living alone in Osaka.

In addition, we will provide easy-to-understand explanations of practical information, such as how to choose properties with furniture and appliances or free rent properties, tips for finding properties with no deposit or key money, and how to make the most of monthly apartments and shared houses for single people.

If you want to start a new life as comfortably as possible while keeping costs down, be sure to check it out.

How to choose a property with furniture and appliances

One way to significantly reduce the initial costs of living alone in Osaka is to use a property that comes with furniture and appliances.

Since a bed, refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, etc. are provided from the start, you can significantly reduce expenses immediately after moving in.

This is especially common in rental properties for students or people transferring for work, and in monthly and weekly apartments, but recently there has been an increase in properties that come with furniture and appliances even in regular long-term rental properties.

However, there are a few things you should be aware of, such as the grade and condition of furniture and appliances, repair and replacement fees, and restoration costs when moving out.

Even if the facilities are the same, the actual cost will vary depending on the contract terms, so it is important to check carefully when viewing the property or before signing a contract.

This is a particularly recommended option for those looking to move quickly or for short-term use.

How to take advantage of properties with no deposit or key money and free rent

When starting to live alone in Osaka, you can significantly reduce initial costs by making good use of properties with no deposit or key money or properties with free rent (free rent for a certain period of time).

You can easily narrow down your search for these properties by setting conditions such as "zero initial costs" and "no key money" on a property search site. In particular, off-seasons (such as May to August) are a good time to look for properties, as owners often offer favorable conditions to prevent vacancies.

In addition, free rent typically means one month's rent free, which can be used for moving expenses and furniture purchasing, giving you more leeway to start your new life.

However, there may be early termination penalties, so be sure to check the contract details carefully in advance.

If you are looking for a room with cost-effectiveness in mind, this is a system you should definitely check out.

Reduce initial costs with monthly apartments and shared houses

For those who want to start living alone in Osaka at the lowest possible cost, we recommend utilizing a monthly apartment or shared house.

These properties often do not require a deposit, key money, or brokerage fee, and come equipped with furniture and appliances, allowing you to significantly reduce expenses incurred immediately after moving in.

Monthly apartments in particular often have utilities and internet fees included in the rent, making them ideal for short stays or as a trial stay.

On the other hand, the appeal of a shared house is that the rent is cheaper because you can use the common areas, and all the necessary facilities for daily life are already provided, so you can start a new life immediately after moving in.

This is especially suitable for those who enjoy interacting with others and those who want to secure a home quickly while keeping initial costs down.

Summary | Find the perfect area for living alone in Osaka

When starting to live alone in Osaka, the first step towards a comfortable life is to be conscious of the balance between the following three things: safety, transportation access, and rent.

In this article, we have introduced recommended areas both within and outside Osaka city by type, according to each lifestyle and need. These include Tennoji and Fukushima, which have excellent transportation accessibility, Tamatsukuri and Tanimachi Rokuchome, which are popular as peaceful residential areas, Hirano and Awaji, which offer great value for money, and Nakazakicho and Senri Chuo, which are safe and popular with women.

In addition, for those who want to keep initial costs as low as possible, we also feature practical money-saving tips to help you find a good deal on a place to live, such as properties with furniture and appliances included, properties with no deposit or key money, and properties with free rent.

Enjoy a safe and comfortable life on your own in a town that suits you.

I hope this article will help you choose a property that you won't regret.