Understanding Share House Costs
Living in a share house offers several financial advantages compared to renting a standard apartment. But how much do the costs actually differ?
We have put together a brief guide to help you understand the costs involved and the financial benefits of choosing a share house.
1. Initial Costs
For standard rental properties, you are often required to pay one to two months' rent for both a security deposit and key money. In contrast, the initial payment for a share house typically consists of an "initial fee + first month's rent + common service fee."
While initial fees vary by management company or owner, they generally range from 10,000 to 50,000 yen and may be labeled as move-in management fees, administrative fees, or security deposits.
Some share houses also use a deposit system where the initial fee is held and then fully or partially refunded upon move-out according to their specific policies.
Details regarding initial costs are listed on each property's page. If you find a share house you are interested in, please check the details and use the inquiry form if you have any questions.
2. Common Service Fee
Unlike standard rentals, the common service fee in a share house usually covers everything, including utilities, cleaning services, shared facility supplies, and internet costs.
Because you don't have to worry about fluctuating monthly utility bills, it is much easier to manage your personal budget.
3. Move-out Costs
When moving out, instead of the standard security deposit deductions found in traditional rentals, some share houses may require a cleaning fee (typically 10,000 to 20,000 yen).
In some cases, this may already be covered by your initial deposit, so policies vary by property. Be sure to confirm this before moving in.
4. Financial Benefits
The biggest appeal of a share house is that it comes fully furnished with the appliances and furniture you need, allowing you to significantly reduce your move-in costs compared to a standard apartment.
Private rooms are often equipped with an air conditioner, bed, desk, and storage, and some even include a refrigerator, so you can start your new life immediately.
This makes it possible to move in with just a suitcase, saving you the cost of hiring professional movers.
Additionally, since share house rents are often lower than the market average in Tokyo, you may be able to live closer to your workplace or school for the same budget, saving you valuable commuting time.
Keep an eye out for promotional campaigns, such as free first-month rent or waived initial fees, which some share houses offer for a limited time.
→ List of share houses with active campaigns
*Please note that campaigns may be subject to specific terms and conditions.
Share houses offer a flexible and light way to live. If you find a property you like or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us.
Find the perfect share house and enjoy your new lifestyle!