Basic differences between living in a shared house and living alone
Share houses and living alone are popular housing options, but there are significant differences in lifestyle, contract types, and the degree of privacy they offer. Let's compare these points to help you choose the housing that's right for you.
If you're looking to combine the convenience of a shared house with the privacy of living alone, Cross House's furnished apartments are the perfect solution.
The biggest advantage of this apartment is that you can start living alone immediately while keeping initial costs down. There's no security deposit or key money required, and it comes fully equipped with essential amenities such as a bed, refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, and Wi-Fi, significantly reducing the hassle of moving. Furthermore, it offers flexible contract options from short-term to long-term, making it ideal for those who frequently relocate for work or business, or those looking for a place to move into immediately.
Furthermore, we have numerous properties located near train stations in Tokyo and Osaka, making them convenient for commuting to work or school. Unlike share houses, there are no troublesome rules, and you can enjoy a safe and comfortable life with complete privacy in your own private room.
"I want to start living alone right now with zero upfront costs!" If that sounds like you, be sure to check out Cross House's furnished apartments .
Differences in lifestyle
Living in a shared house versus living alone results in vastly different daily lifestyles.
<Life in a shared house>
In a share house, you live with multiple residents, which naturally fosters interaction with others. A lively lifestyle is characterized by conversations in common areas like the living room and kitchen, and participation in events. Therefore, it's ideal for people who value new encounters and community.
If you want to know about the realities of life in a share house and common experiences you'll encounter if you actually live there, be sure to check out our article , "Share House Common Experiences!? A Must-Read for Those Considering a Share House! "
<Living alone>
The appeal of living alone is that you can live completely at your own pace. You can decide everything yourself, from when you come home to when you eat and how you do household chores. It's recommended for people who want to concentrate on work or studies in a quiet environment, or for those who value their privacy.
Differences in contract types
The type of housing contract also differs significantly between shared housing and living alone.
<Share house contract>
Share houses often offer flexible contracts, such as monthly or short-term rentals. Many properties do not require a security deposit or key money, making it easy to move in with minimal initial costs. Furthermore, they often come furnished with furniture and appliances, minimizing the hassle of moving.
<Contract for living alone>
For those living alone, a typical rental agreement (such as a two-year contract) is usually the standard. Initial costs include a security deposit, key money, and brokerage fees, and you will need to provide your own furniture and appliances. Also, there may be penalties for early termination of the contract, so it is necessary to plan for long-term residence.
Degree of privacy
Ensuring privacy is one of the important factors when choosing a place to live.
<Private space in a shared house>
In most shared houses, private rooms are provided, but the kitchen, living room, shower, and toilet are usually shared. Therefore, it's difficult to ensure complete privacy, and you might experience stress if your lifestyle doesn't align with other residents.
<Private space in a single-person apartment>
Living alone means you have all the space to yourself, ensuring complete privacy. It's ideal for those who want to relax in a quiet environment or live freely at their own pace.
Cost comparison
One of the most important factors when choosing a place to live is cost. There are significant differences in initial costs and monthly living expenses between living in a shared house and living alone, so it's crucial to compare them carefully beforehand. Here, we'll explain the costs of each in detail.
Also, if you'd like to know more about the specific initial costs involved in renting a share house, please refer to the following article.
Differences in initial costs
① Whether or not there is a security deposit, key money, or guarantee deposit
When renting a place to live, the first things you'll need are a security deposit, key money, and guarantee deposit.
<Initial costs for a shared house>
Many shared houses do not require a security deposit or key money, and the guarantee deposit is set low. Furthermore, many properties do not require a guarantor, reducing the burden of the application process.
<Initial costs for living alone>
For those living alone, a standard rental agreement is required, which includes a security deposit (1-2 months' rent), key money (1-2 months' rent), guarantee deposit, and brokerage fees. When these costs are added up, it's not uncommon for initial expenses alone to amount to 4-6 months' rent.
② Cost of preparing furniture and appliances
<In the case of a shared house>
Many properties come furnished with furniture and appliances, meaning you'll have almost no upfront costs. The biggest advantage is being able to start your new life right away.
<For those living alone>
You'll need to furnish your new home with essential furniture and appliances such as a bed, refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, and air conditioner. Buying everything new can easily cost between 100,000 and 300,000 yen or more.
Differences in monthly living expenses
① Rent comparison (average rates by area)
<Average rent for shared housing (in Tokyo's 23 wards)>
- Price range: 40,000 to 70,000 yen (depending on area and facilities)
- They often come furnished with appliances and include utilities (water, electricity, gas), making them good value for money relative to the rent.
<Average rent for a single person (in Tokyo's 23 wards)>
- Market price: 60,000 to 120,000 yen (depending on proximity to the station and age of the building)
- In many cases, management fees, common area maintenance fees, and internet fees are added to the rent.
② Utility bills and internet costs
<Share house>
- Many properties include utilities and internet fees, making monthly expenses consistent and easy to manage.
- Because you share the costs with other residents, your electricity and water bills will be cheaper than if you lived alone.
<Living alone>
- Since I have to pay for electricity, gas, water, and internet myself, there will be an additional cost of 10,000 to 20,000 yen per month.
- Using heating in winter and air conditioning in summer will further increase costs.
③ Maintenance costs for shared spaces
<Share house>
- Cleaning fees and maintenance fees for shared facilities are often included.
- In some cases, you may be able to use shared lounges and gyms, making it good value for money.
<Living alone>
- Since there are no shared facilities, all management must be done at your own expense.
- You will also need to purchase daily necessities (cleaning supplies, consumables, etc.) on your own.
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Advantages and disadvantages of shared housing
Share houses are a popular living style that allows you to interact with other residents while keeping costs down. However, unlike living alone, there are points to be aware of regarding privacy and rules. Here, we will explain the advantages and disadvantages of share houses in detail, so please use this as a reference when choosing the right housing for you.
Advantages of a shared house
① You can save on living expenses.
The biggest advantage of living in a shared house is that you can save on rent and living expenses.
- Affordable rent: Even in the city center, there are many properties available for around 40,000 to 70,000 yen, making it more cost-effective than living alone.
- Some properties include utilities and internet costs: This helps keep fixed costs down and makes it easier to manage expenses.
- Fully furnished with furniture and appliances: No need to purchase refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, etc.
Living alone can be a heavy burden due to initial costs and monthly fixed expenses, but in a shared house, you can live comfortably while reducing unnecessary expenses.
② More opportunities to meet new people
One of the biggest advantages of living in a shared house is the opportunity to interact with residents from diverse backgrounds.
- Natural conversations arise in shared spaces.
- Many properties have lively communities where residents interact through events and meals together.
- An opportunity to broaden your perspectives and network.
This environment is especially ideal for people who have moved to Tokyo from other regions, or for those who are too busy with work to have many opportunities to meet new people.
③ Moving is easy because furniture and appliances are already provided.
Share houses are fully furnished with furniture and appliances, making them convenient for immediate move-in with just a suitcase.
- Many properties come equipped with a bed, refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, and air conditioner.
- No cost to buy furniture, and minimal hassle during moving.
- Easy to use for short-term stays, job transfers, or studying abroad.
This is a great advantage for people who want to start their new life right away, as it can significantly reduce moving expenses and the cost of purchasing furniture and appliances.
④ There is a sense of security in terms of crime prevention.
Share houses are one of the safer types of housing in terms of security.
- Unlike living alone, there is always someone around, so the risk of burglary is lower.
- Many properties have features such as automatic locks and security cameras.
- The shared spaces provide a monitoring effect, allowing residents to live with peace of mind.
In particular, there are share houses exclusively for women, making them suitable for people who prioritize security over living alone.
Disadvantages of shared housing
① Difficulty in ensuring privacy
In shared housing, the kitchen, living room, shower, and toilet are typically shared. Therefore, a disadvantage is that it can be difficult to secure complete privacy.
- I sometimes find the sounds of daily life and the actions of other residents bothersome.
- The room size is smaller than that of a single person's apartment (private rooms are common).
- It may not be suitable for people who want to concentrate on remote work or studying.
If you're looking for a completely quiet and comfortable environment, living alone might be a better option.
② Risk of disputes between residents
In a shared house, you live together with other residents, so there is a possibility of problems arising.
- Differences in lifestyle rhythms (e.g., night owls vs. early risers)
- Noise problems (such as talking or music)
- Differences in rules regarding cleaning and the use of common areas
To build good relationships, it's important to be considerate of each other while living together. Depending on the property, the management company may handle management and trouble-free living, so be sure to check before signing a contract.
③ There can be many rules.
In shared houses, various rules are in place to prevent conflicts between residents.
- Garbage disposal duty rotation
- Restrictions on the usage time of shared spaces
- Prohibition of friends staying over, etc.
Some shared houses are strictly managed by the management company, so it's important to check the rules beforehand.
Advantages and disadvantages of living alone
The biggest appeal of living alone is the high degree of freedom and the ability to live at your own pace. However, there are also disadvantages, such as increased living expenses and household chores. Here, we will explain the advantages and disadvantages of living alone in detail, and, considering the differences with shared housing, use this as a reference to choose the best place to live.
Advantages of living alone
① You can secure a free lifestyle.
The biggest advantage of living alone is that you can live freely without anyone interfering.
- You can freely decide when you'll be home and when you'll eat.
- You can listen to music or watch movies whenever you want.
- You can freely invite friends and lovers.
While shared housing may have curfews and rules for using common areas, the biggest advantage of living alone is that you can decide everything at your own pace.
② You can decide on your own interior design and daily routine.
If you live alone, you can create a comfortable space because you can customize the layout of your home, the arrangement of furniture, and the interior design to your liking.
- You can choose furniture and appliances to your liking.
- You can clean and tidy up whenever you like.
- You can adjust your daily routine at your own pace.
In shared housing, furniture and appliances are often provided, which means there's less freedom in interior design. However, living alone allows you to create a space that's completely to your liking.
③ It is easier to concentrate on work or studies.
Living alone offers the advantage of a quiet environment, making it easier to concentrate on work or studies.
- You can create the perfect environment for teleworking or studying.
- You can live in peace without being bothered by the sounds of other residents' daily lives.
- You can work at your own pace.
In a shared house, you might be bothered by the conversations of other residents or the noise from common areas, but if you live alone, you can create an environment that is completely your own and conducive to concentration.
Disadvantages of living alone
① Living expenses will increase
As mentioned earlier, there is a significant difference in living expenses between living in a shared house and living alone. Rent for a shared house is around 40,000 to 70,000 yen, and many properties include utilities and internet, making it generally more cost-effective than living alone. On the other hand, the average rent for living alone is 60,000 to 120,000 yen, plus an additional 10,000 to 20,000 yen per month for utilities and internet, so expenses tend to be higher. Furthermore, shared houses come furnished with furniture and appliances, eliminating the need for initial costs, while living alone can incur equipment purchase costs of 100,000 to 300,000 yen. The burden of managing common areas also differs; in shared houses, the management company often handles cleaning, while living alone requires complete self-management. If cost is a priority, a shared house is suitable; if you seek independence, living alone is more appropriate.
② Sometimes I feel lonely.
Living alone offers the advantage of being able to live without being disturbed by anyone, but a downside is that you may sometimes feel lonely.
- I have no one to talk to when I get home from work or school.
- I'm spending more time eating meals and having free time alone.
- I have no one to rely on in case of sudden illness or trouble.
In a shared house, you're less likely to feel lonely because you interact with others in the common areas, but if you live alone, you need to make an effort to consciously create opportunities to meet up with friends.
③ Increased burden of housework
Living alone means you have to do all the housework yourself, which can be a big burden, especially for busy people.
- You will need to do everything yourself, including cleaning, laundry, and taking out the trash.
- Unlike a shared house, cleaning of common areas cannot be shared.
- Not cooking tends to increase food expenses.
In shared housing, some properties offer cleaning services, or residents can share cleaning responsibilities. However, when living alone, everything is your responsibility, so you must allocate time for household chores.
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Which is better for you: living in a shared house or living alone?
When choosing a place to live, many people wonder whether a shared house or living alone is right for them. This article explains how to choose the best housing option based on your individual lifestyle and values.
People who are suited to living in a shared house
① I want to reduce costs.
- Share houses tend to have lower rent, utilities, and internet costs than living alone, and initial expenses are also lower, making them a good option for people who want to minimize costs.
- You can find accommodation in the city center for 40,000 to 70,000 yen in rent.
- Since it comes furnished with furniture and appliances, moving costs are reduced.
- Many properties include utilities and Wi-Fi, helping to keep monthly fixed costs down.
② I want to enjoy interacting with others.
In a shared house, interaction between residents naturally occurs through common spaces, making it ideal for people looking to meet new people.
- Enjoy conversations and meals in the living room and kitchen.
- Some properties host events regularly.
- You can interact with people who have different values and be inspired by them.
③ I'm anxious about living alone for the first time.
When you live alone for the first time, you have to do everything you need for daily life on your own, but in a shared house, you can get support.
- The burden of housework and cleaning is reduced (some properties even include cleaning services).
- There are residents you can talk to when you're in trouble.
- I feel less lonely even in new environments.
People who are suited to living alone
① I want to spend time in a quiet environment.
In a shared house, you might be bothered by noise in common areas or the daily routines of other residents, but living alone allows you to have complete privacy.
- You can relax without being bothered by the sounds of other people's lives.
- You can go to bed and wake up whenever you want.
- You can live in a quiet environment without stress.
② I want to concentrate on my work or studies.
Living alone is ideal for those who want to create an environment where they can concentrate, such as for remote work or studying for exams.
- You can secure a space where you can concentrate on work or study.
- Unaffected by residents' conversations or everyday noises.
- You can work at your preferred time.
③ I want to cherish my own pace.
In a shared house, there are rules for using common spaces, which can limit your freedom, but if you live alone, you can decide everything at your own pace.
- You can freely adjust meal and bathing times.
- The pace at which you clean and tidy up is entirely up to you.
- You can live freely without anyone interfering.
If you're unsure which to choose, here's how to make the best decision between living in a shared house and living alone.
Even after understanding the advantages and disadvantages of both shared housing and living alone, many people still can't decide which is right for them. To make the right choice when selecting a place to live, it's important to keep in mind points such as actually trying them out, broadening your options, and clarifying your lifestyle. Here, we introduce specific methods for when you're unsure about which place to live.
A trial period will be provided.
To avoid regretting your choice of accommodation, the best thing to do is to actually live in it. Especially if it's your first time living alone, or if you're unsure whether shared living in a house will suit you, it's recommended to use properties that offer short-term contracts.
<How to try living in a place>
- Use a shared house with a monthly contract (many properties allow contracts on a monthly basis).
- Get a feel for living alone by staying in a weekly apartment or hotel.
- Spend a certain period of time at the home of an acquaintance or relative to test out your ideal environment.
By actually experiencing both shared housing and living alone, you can reduce the risk of making a mistake and choose a more satisfying living situation.
Utilize rental properties with shared housing options
For those who find the idea of a shared house appealing but also desire the freedom of living alone, there's the option of renting a property with a shared house option.
What is a rental property with a shared house?
- Each resident has their own private room, while sharing some areas such as the kitchen and living room.
- It allows you to combine the social interaction of a shared house with the freedom of living alone.
- It's cheaper than renting an apartment, and you can get the feeling of living alone.
For example, properties like Cross House's "furnished apartments" offer the privacy of a completely private room while also allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a shared house, making them perfect for people who find both lifestyles appealing.
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summary
Both shared housing and living alone have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it's important to choose based on your lifestyle and values. If you want to enjoy socializing while keeping costs down, shared housing is suitable; if you want to live independently, living alone is better. If you're unsure, try a short-term stay, consider renting an apartment with shared housing options, or clarify your lifestyle. Find the perfect place to live and start your comfortable new life!
