Quick Answer
Shinjuku offers diverse housing options from ¥70,000 studios in Okubo to ¥150,000+ apartments in Nishi-Shinjuku. Foreigner-friendly agencies include GaijinPot Apartments, Real Estate Japan, and local agencies near Shin-Okubo. A guarantor company is typically required in place of a personal guarantor.
Average Rent by Neighborhood
| Area | 1K/1R Studio | 1LDK | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Okubo / Shin-Okubo | ¥70,000-90,000 | ¥110,000-140,000 | Diverse, international food, lively |
| Takadanobaba | ¥75,000-95,000 | ¥120,000-150,000 | Student area, affordable dining |
| Nishi-Shinjuku | ¥90,000-120,000 | ¥150,000-200,000 | Business district, modern towers |
| Kagurazaka | ¥85,000-110,000 | ¥140,000-180,000 | French community, charming streets |
| Wakamatsu-cho / Kawada-cho | ¥70,000-85,000 | ¥100,000-130,000 | Quiet residential, near hospitals |
Foreigner-Friendly Resources
- GaijinPot Apartments — English listings, foreigner-focused agents
- Real Estate Japan — English search, filters for foreigner-friendly properties
- Shin-Okubo area agencies — many local agents near Shin-Okubo station specialize in foreign clients
- UR Housing (公団住宅) — no key money, no guarantor required, accepts foreign residents
- Global Trust Networks (GTN) — guarantor company specializing in foreign residents
Typical Upfront Costs
- Deposit (敷金): 1-2 months
- Key money (礼金): 0-1 month
- Agent fee: 1 month + tax
- Guarantor company fee: 0.5-1 month
- Fire insurance: ¥15,000-20,000
- Lock change: ¥15,000-25,000
- Total: approximately 4-5 months' rent upfront
FAQ
Q: Can I rent in Shinjuku without a personal guarantor?
A: Yes. Most landlords now accept guarantor companies. GTN and other companies specialize in serving foreign residents and can handle the process in English.
Q: Which Shinjuku neighborhoods are best for foreign residents?
A: Shin-Okubo and Okubo have large international communities and many landlords experienced with foreign tenants. Takadanobaba is popular with students. Kagurazaka has a French community.
Disclaimer
Rent prices are approximate and fluctuate with market conditions. Always confirm current pricing with the real estate agent.
Last updated: April 2026.