What is the appeal of living alone in Fukuoka?

Fukuoka City is known as the perfect city where urban convenience and natural abundance coexist. It has all the important points for starting to live alone, such as good transportation access, low rent, and a wide range of facilities necessary for daily life, making it an ideal place for first-time residents. Here, we will introduce the appeal of living alone in Fukuoka from four perspectives.

Convenient transportation access | Subway, JR and airport are available

One of the biggest attractions of Fukuoka City is its convenient transportation, which is unmatched nationwide. It takes only five minutes to get from the city center to Fukuoka Airport on the subway line. Of all major cities in Japan, Fukuoka City is famous for being the city with the airport closest to the city center.

In addition, all of the JR Kyushu lines converge at Hakata Station, and you can also use the Shinkansen, making it a very convenient base for business trips, homecomings, and travel.Furthermore, the Nanakuma Subway Line and Nishitetsu Railway also cover a wide area of the city, making Fukuoka a stress-free place to go to school, work, or hospital.

The city is designed to make it possible to live without a car, and being able to keep transportation costs down and live smartly is a major benefit for people living alone.

Rent is relatively cheap and it is easy to find housing.

Compared to big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, average rent prices in Fukuoka City are relatively low, and there are many rental properties with good cost performance. It is possible to rent a recently built apartment near the station for around 50,000 to 70,000 yen, even in a 1LDK or 1DK layout that is popular for single people.

In addition, even if you are looking for a place within a 5-minute walk of the station, near a supermarket, with an auto-locking door, etc., you will have more options with reasonable rents compared to urban areas. There are also a large number of properties, so it is relatively easy to find the room you want even outside of moving season.

One of the advantages unique to Fukuoka is that even if it is your first time living alone, you can find a home that is just right for you and within a reasonable budget.

Many popular shops and facilities make this a very convenient place to live.

Fukuoka City is home to a wide variety of facilities and popular shops that add color to your daily life. In particular, the central areas of Fukuoka, such as Hakata Station and Tenjin, are home to a large number of shopping malls, department stores, drugstores, cafes, convenience stores, restaurants, and more, covering a wide range of needs, from daily shopping to eating out and hobbies.

Another plus point is that there are plenty of services that are useful for people living alone, such as 24-hour supermarkets, laundromats, medical facilities, and fitness gyms. Many people who live here realize that it is a "convenient town" where you can get everything you need by bicycle or within walking distance.

The smooth flow of daily life and the cityscape that allows you to spend your time after work and on your days off productively enriches life in Fukuoka.

A good balance between urban and natural areas, making it a pleasant place to live

Another attraction of Fukuoka is the perfect balance between urban functions and natural environments. For example, by taking the subway a short distance, you can access seaside parks (Momochihama and Seaside Momochi) and mountain walking spots (Aburayama and Tachibanayama), as well as other places where you can experience nature. The perfect environment for refreshing your mind and body is nearby.

Furthermore, the compact urban structure means that travel from residential areas to the city center takes only a short time, freeing you from the stress of rush hour commutes and long-distance travel.

7 recommended areas for living alone in Fukuoka City

Fukuoka City has been attracting attention as a city with a good balance of transportation access, rent, convenience of living, and natural environment, making it an ideal area for those living alone for the first time. Here, we will narrow down the area to Fukuoka City in Fukuoka Prefecture and introduce 7 carefully selected areas recommended for living alone, comprehensively judging access, average rent, surrounding facilities, safety, and ease of living.

1. Hakata Station area (Hakata Ward) | Great access in the center of Fukuoka City

Hakata Station is a terminal station with overwhelming accessibility in Fukuoka City, and functions as the "gateway to Kyushu" where JR, Shinkansen, and the subway airport line converge. There are many corporate offices in Hakata Ward, making it extremely convenient for commuting to work or school.

The large complexes "AMU Plaza Hakata" and "KITTE Hakata" are directly connected to the station, and offer restaurants, apparel stores, supermarkets, and even movie theaters, so you won't have any trouble shopping. There are also many medical facilities, banks, and convenience stores within walking distance, making this an extremely convenient area to live in.

However, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is a little on the high side, at around 70,000 to 90,000 yen, but considering the accessibility and abundance of nearby facilities, it's not a bad value for money. This is a place we would recommend to those who prioritize convenience for transportation and shopping.

② Tenjin/Yakuin area (Chuo Ward) | A stylish and livable town

Tenjin, the center of Fukuoka City's Chuo Ward, is one of the largest downtown areas in Kyushu, lined with department stores, fashion buildings, underground shopping malls, and more, making it a popular spot that is bustling day and night. With an abundance of art, gourmet food, and events, it's the perfect place to live a life that stimulates your senses.

The neighboring Yakuin area is a more relaxed residential area than Tenjin, and is very popular among young people and women as a "fashionable area" dotted with stylish cafes, general stores, and bakeries. There are many apartments and 1DK apartments aimed at single people, making it a well-balanced living environment.

The average rent for a 1DK apartment is around 60,000 to 80,000 yen, but considering the location, safety, and convenience, it doesn't seem too expensive.

3. Ohashi Station area (Minami Ward) | A residential area popular with university students and young people

Nishitetsu Ohashi Station in Minami-ku, Fukuoka City is conveniently located just 10 minutes by train from Tenjin, and is popular as a residential area with a calm atmosphere. There are educational institutions such as Kyushu University Ohashi Campus and Fukuoka Jogakuin in the surrounding area, making it popular with students and young workers.

There are commercial facilities, supermarkets, drugstores, restaurants, and other facilities around the station, so the infrastructure is excellent. Another appealing point is that you can easily get around by bicycle.

The average rent for a 1LDK apartment is relatively cheap at around 45,000 to 60,000 yen, making it suitable for first-timers looking to live alone and keep costs down.

④ Nishijin/Fujisaki area (Sawara Ward) | A quiet and relaxing environment

The area around Nishijin Station and Fujisaki Station, which is the core of Sawara Ward, is a peaceful residential area, but it is also home to the Nishijin shopping district, large supermarkets, and plenty of restaurants, so you will have no trouble getting around in your daily life.

In addition, there are hospitals, libraries, and educational facilities in the area, and the area has good public safety. It is popular with a wide range of generations, from seniors to students and families.

The average rent for a 1DK apartment is around 50,000 to 70,000 yen, which is slightly cheaper than in the center of the city, making it the perfect town for those looking for a quiet lifestyle.

⑤ Meinohama/Murominami area (Nishi Ward) | A safe town with many families

Meinohama Station and Muromi Station in Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City, are located on the Airport Line, making them convenient residential areas with direct access to Hakata Station and Tenjin. The area is close to the sea and has a relaxed environment, making it popular not only with families but also with people living alone.

There is a shopping center, a home center, and a large supermarket in front of the station, so you will have no trouble finding what you need for shopping.

The rent for a 1LDK apartment is about 50,000 to 65,000 yen. It is a safe and good location that combines the convenience of the city with the tranquility of the suburbs.

⑥ Ropponmatsu Area (Chuo Ward) | A new spot attracting attention due to redevelopment

Ropponmatsu, which has undergone rapid development in recent years, is a unique town surrounded by nature and culture, even though it is located in Fukuoka City's Chuo Ward. The popular "Ropponmatsu 421" area is home to many popular spots, including the Fukuoka City Science Museum and Tsutaya Bookstore, making it an ideal living environment for young people.

In addition, with the construction of the Nanakuma Subway Line, access to Tenjin and Hakata has improved dramatically, making this an area that combines culture and convenience and is currently attracting attention.

The rent for a 1DK apartment is a little high at around 60,000 to 80,000 yen, but the quality of life is very high. This is a recommended town for those who are looking for a stylish and intellectual lifestyle.

7. Hakozaki/Chihaya area (Higashi Ward) | A hidden gem of a residential area with low rent

Although the areas around Hakozaki and Chihaya in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, are a little far from the center of Fukuoka City, the JR Kagoshima Main Line and the Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line are both accessible, so access to Hakata Station is not a problem.

The best thing about this area is the low average rent, with a 1LDK apartment costing around 40,000 to 55,000 yen, making it the perfect place for those looking for a spacious apartment at a reasonable price. There are also many parks and libraries, making it a quiet residential area where time passes slowly.

Things you should know before starting living alone in Fukuoka

Here are three important points that people who are thinking of moving out on their own in Fukuoka City should know beforehand. We will provide detailed information on average rent, subway line characteristics, and points to consider when choosing a city, so you can use this as a reference to avoid making a mistake when choosing an area.

Rent prices vary greatly depending on the area

In Fukuoka City, rents for 1K and 1LDK apartments for single people vary greatly depending on the area. For example, properties around Hakata Station and Tenjin Station, which have good transport access and a concentration of commercial facilities, tend to have high rents, with even a one-room apartment costing around 60,000 to 70,000 yen.

On the other hand, in suburban areas such as Jonan, Sawara, and Minami, which are a little off the subway line, rent is relatively cheap, and you can sometimes find properties for around 40,000 to 50,000 yen. If you are particular about the area you want to live in, be sure to carefully consider the balance with rent.

Differences and features between the Subway Kuko Line and Nanakuma Line

Fukuoka City's subway is mainly divided into three lines: the Airport Line, the Nanakuma Line, and the Hakozaki Line. However, the Airport Line and the Nanakuma Line are the ones you will most likely use on a daily basis.

The Airport Line is a major line that connects Fukuoka Airport to Hakata, Tenjin, Nishijin, and Meihama. It is convenient for commuting to work or school, and you can access Hakata Station and Tenjin Station without changing trains. Because of its convenience, rent along the line is a little higher.

The Nanakuma Line runs from Tenjin Minami to Yakuin to Ropponmatsu to Fukudai-mae to Hashimoto, and is relatively new and has many residential areas. It is less crowded than the Airport Line, and it is easier to find affordable properties along the line.

Transportation convenience greatly affects the comfort of your life, so make sure to check whether your frequently used stations and destinations are easily accessible before making your selection.

Compare cities from three perspectives: transportation access, shopping, and safety

It's a bit dangerous to decide based solely on "closeness to the station" or "cheap rent." When choosing a city in Fukuoka, you'll be less likely to make mistakes if you keep the following three perspectives in mind.

• Good transport access: Check the distance to major stations, commute times, number of buses and subways, etc.
• Convenience of shopping: Are there supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, etc. nearby? Stores that are open late at night are also convenient.
• Safety and sense of security in the living environment: It's a good idea to check the atmosphere during the day and at night. For women living alone, it's important to consider the presence or absence of pedestrian traffic, street lights, and the quietness of the residential area.

Especially if it's your first time living alone, we recommend that you don't just rely on information online, but actually walk around the area and check it out. When you are shown around, ask about the route from the station and the atmosphere at night, so you can choose a place where you can live with peace of mind.

How to find a place to live alone in Fukuoka

When you start living alone in Fukuoka, it is important to efficiently search for a property that meets your desired conditions. While clarifying conditions such as rent, location, and layout, using real estate websites and apps, and actually seeing the place in person to compare and consider will lead to choosing an apartment that you will not regret.

Tips for making the most of rental sites and apps

If you are looking for a place to live alone in Fukuoka City, you should use major rental sites such as SUUMO and LIFULL HOME'S, or the app versions at home and CHINTAI. The following features are particularly useful:

• "Area Search": You can narrow down your search to popular areas in Fukuoka City, such as Chuo Ward, Hakata Ward, and Minami Ward.
• "Line Search": Specify a station along the subway Kuko Line or Nanakuma Line, and add conditions such as "within a 5-minute walk from the station."
• "Specific conditions": You can narrow down your search by facilities that are ideal for people living alone, such as separate bathroom and toilet, a delivery box, and an auto-lock.
• If you choose a room that comes with furniture and appliances or no deposit or key money, it is also recommended for those who want to keep initial costs down.

Another major benefit is that by using "favorites" and "notification settings," you won't miss out on new properties and can act quickly.

If you want to keep initial costs down, "Cross House" is also an option

For those who want to keep initial costs down when starting to live alone in Fukuoka, we recommend Cross House's shared houses and furnished rental properties. There is no deposit or key money required, and there are few complicated procedures to follow.

In addition, most rooms come equipped with furniture and appliances, which can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing items when moving.

There are also multiple properties in major areas such as Hakata Station and Tenjin Station, making them convenient for commuting to work or school. Another appealing feature is the wide range of options to suit your lifestyle, from shared house style to single room types that prioritize privacy.

Cross House is a safe and easy choice, especially for those who are living alone for the first time or who cannot afford to purchase furniture and appliances.

Points to check when visiting the site

When you find a property that interests you, be sure to view it on-site. The "ease of living" of the property cannot be determined by photos or floor plans alone, but it can be seen by actually visiting the property. The points you should especially check are as follows:

• Sunlight and ventilation: Even if the house faces south, it may be dark due to the influence of neighboring buildings. It is a good idea to check the house several times at different times.
• Surrounding noise: Noise can be a concern in areas such as near major roads, train tracks, or near schools. If you want a quiet environment, it's essential to check the noise.
• Distance and route from station: "5 minute walk" may be the straight line distance. Try walking the route yourself to check whether there are any slopes, street lights, and safety.
• Adequacy of nearby facilities: Check the distance to supermarkets, convenience stores, and drug stores. It is convenient if there are stores nearby that are open late at night.
• Public Safety and City Atmosphere: The atmosphere can change dramatically between day and night. It is best to avoid dark alleys and roads with little traffic at night.

Also, don't forget to check how the management company and landlord handle your case. Whether they respond properly when you have a problem is very important if you want to live there for a long time.

Estimated living expenses for living alone in Fukuoka

When you start living alone in Fukuoka, it's important to know in advance how much your living expenses will be in addition to rent. In this chapter, we'll introduce in detail the average monthly fixed costs such as utility bills, food, and communication fees, the difference in prices in each area of Fukuoka city, and even tips for saving money.

What are your monthly fixed costs other than rent?

If you live alone in Fukuoka, you will need an average of 100,000 to 150,000 yen per month for living expenses. Below is a rough guide to the main fixed expenses.

• Utility bills: 8,000 to 10,000 yen (varies depending on the season)
• Food expenses: 20,000 to 30,000 yen (if you mainly cook at home, it's possible to keep it under 20,000 yen)
• Communication costs (smartphone + internet): 5,000 to 10,000 yen
• Transportation costs: 5,000 to 10,000 yen (depending on the location of your workplace or school)
• Daily necessities and miscellaneous expenses: 3,000 to 5,000 yen

By being frugal, it is possible to keep your monthly expenses under 100,000 yen. However, if you eat out a lot, your expenses will increase dramatically, so it is important to be conscious of living a balanced life.

Check the price differences by area

Prices and living costs vary depending on the area in Fukuoka City. Below are some of the main trends.

• Center area (Tenjin/Hakata): Rent, eating out, and daily necessities are all expensive. Convenience is the best.
• Suburban areas such as Minami-ku, Higashi-ku, and Nishi-ku: Low rent and reasonable supermarket prices.
• Sawara Ward (around Nishijin): As this is a student town, there are many value-for-money restaurants and prices are relatively low.

When choosing an area, consider the balance between access to work or school and living costs.

Shopping and transportation tips for those who want to save money

You can save money on your daily food expenses by making good use of local supermarkets, greengrocers, and drugstores. Shopping districts often have special sales and discounts, so you may find some great bargains.

We recommend using a commuter pass or transportation IC card for commuting to work or school. There are many discounts available for students and commuters. Using a shared bicycle is also a good way to travel short distances.

Useful information on facilities and services for those living alone in Fukuoka

To live comfortably alone, it is important to have a good selection of facilities and services to support your daily life. Fukuoka City has many urban functions in a compact area, making it highly convenient for daily life. In this chapter, we will introduce the good selection of supermarkets and medical facilities, as well as convenient services that are unique to the area.

Which cities have the most 24-hour supermarkets and convenience stores?

• There are many 24-hour supermarkets and convenience stores around Hakata Station and Tenjin.
• A big advantage is that even people who get home late at night or who work shifts can shop without worrying about time.
• Drugstores and 100 yen shops are often open late into the night, making them convenient for sudden shopping trips.

Enhanced medical and public facilities provide a sense of security

• There are many general hospitals and clinics scattered throughout Fukuoka City, so you can receive immediate medical attention even if you suddenly become ill.
• Public facilities such as ward offices and libraries are located in each ward, making them easily accessible.

Convenient subscription, delivery and local services for those living alone

In Fukuoka City, the following services are becoming more and more popular, significantly reducing the time and hassle of living alone.

• Food delivery services (Oisix, Yoshikei, Co-op, etc.)
• Dry cleaning and cleaning services
• Shared bicycle "ChariChari"
• Laundromat and laundry delivery services
• Same-day delivery from Amazon and Rakuten (urban areas only)

Even people who aren't good at cooking or doing laundry can live stress-free by using these convenient services.

Summary | Find the perfect city to live in in Fukuoka

Fukuoka City has all three advantages: low rent, good transport access, and high convenience, making it highly recommended for people who are new to living alone. Although it is a regional city, urban functions are compactly concentrated here, and the comfort of having everything you need within walking distance has been well received by many people who have moved here.

Rent, prices, and atmosphere vary greatly depending on the area, so don't make a decision based solely on information online. If possible, go and see the town in person to get a feel for it. Where you live is an important decision that will directly affect your daily life going forward. We hope this article will give you some hints on how to find the perfect lifestyle for you.