Share Houses in Chofu: Affordable Options Outside Tokyo

Why Choose Chofu for Share House Living?

Chofu is an excellent choice for share house living if you want affordable rent, easy access to central Tokyo, and a calm, local lifestyle. Located in western Tokyo, Chofu offers the best of both worlds—urban convenience without the crowds and high costs of the city center.

Convenient Access to Shinjuku and Central Tokyo

Chofu is served by the Keio Line, providing direct access to Shinjuku in approximately 15–20 minutes. This makes it easy for commuters, students, and remote workers who still want quick connections to Tokyo’s major business and entertainment districts.

Despite its accessibility, Chofu feels noticeably less hectic than central Tokyo areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya, which is a major draw for many residents.

More Affordable Rent Without Sacrificing Comfort

Compared to inner-city neighborhoods, Chofu offers lower rent prices while still providing modern housing options. Share houses in Chofu allow residents to keep monthly costs manageable without giving up essentials such as furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, and shared common spaces.

For foreigners, this affordability is especially appealing when combined with flexible contracts and lower initial costs.

Quiet, Residential Atmosphere

Chofu is known for its relaxed, residential vibe. The city features:

• Wide streets and green spaces
• Riverside walking paths along the Tama River
• Local shopping streets and supermarkets

This environment is ideal for people who prefer a quieter place to live after work or study, while still staying connected to Tokyo.

Foreigner-Friendly Living Environment

Chofu is home to international students, professionals, and long-term foreign residents. Many shared houses in the area are designed with foreigners in mind, offering simple rental agreements, English support, and an overall easy move-in process.

For those new to Japan, Chofu provides a smoother introduction to daily life compared to more crowded and fast-paced neighborhoods.

Average Cost of Share Houses in Chofu

One of the main reasons foreigners choose a share house in Chofu is the reasonable cost. Chofu offers a good balance between affordability and convenience, making it a popular option for budget-conscious residents.

Typical Monthly Rent in Chofu

The average monthly rent for a share house in Chofu is between ¥40,000 and ¥65,000.

Prices vary depending on:

• Distance from the nearest station
• Room size (standard private room vs larger room)
• Building age and facilities

Even rooms close to major stations like Chofu or Fuda tend to be more affordable than similar options in Shinjuku or Shibuya.

What’s Included in the Rent

Most share houses in Chofu offer all-inclusive pricing, which is especially helpful for foreigners.

Monthly rent often includes:

• Electricity, water, and gas
• High-speed internet (Wi-Fi)
• Fully furnished private rooms
• Shared kitchen, bathroom, and living spaces

This makes budgeting much easier, as there are no surprise utility bills each month.

Low Initial Costs Compared to Apartments

Unlike standard apartments in Japan, share houses usually require minimal upfront fees.

In most cases:

• No key money
• No security deposit (or very low deposit)
• No guarantor required

This is a major advantage for foreigners who want to move in quickly without paying large initial costs.

How Chofu Compares to Central Tokyo

Compared to popular central areas:

• Shinjuku / Shibuya: ¥60,000–¥90,000 (share houses)
• Chofu: ¥40,000–¥65,000

Living slightly outside the city center allows residents to save money while still enjoying fast access to Tokyo’s main districts.

Best Areas in Chofu for Share Houses

Chofu City has several neighborhoods that are especially well-suited for share house living. These areas combine good transportation access, reasonable rent, and a comfortable residential environment—key factors for foreigners living in Japan.

Chofu Station Area

The area around Chofu Station is the most convenient and popular choice.

Chofu Station is a major stop on the Keio Line, with direct trains to Shinjuku in around 15–20 minutes. The station area offers:

• Large supermarkets and shopping malls
• Restaurants, cafes, and daily conveniences
• Easy access for commuting and social activities

Share houses near Chofu Station tend to be slightly more expensive than in other parts of the city, but the convenience makes it ideal for first-time residents in Japan.

Fuda & Kokuryo

Fuda and Kokuryo are located one to two stations away from Chofu Station and are well known for their quiet, local atmosphere.

These areas are popular among:

• Students
• Long-term foreign residents
• People who prefer a calmer lifestyle

Rent in Fuda and Kokuryo is often more affordable than directly around Chofu Station, while still offering quick train access and essential amenities.

Tobitakyu and Western Chofu

Tobitakyu and the western parts of Chofu attract residents who value space and affordability.

These neighborhoods feature:

• Lower rent compared to central Chofu
• Parks, sports facilities, and open spaces
• A relaxed residential feel

They are especially suitable for those who work remotely, study, or do not need to commute everyday to central Tokyo.

Share House vs Apartment in Chofu

When choosing housing in Chofu, foreigners often compare share houses with private apartments. The biggest differences are cost, flexibility, and ease of renting.

Share houses in Chofu typically cost ¥40,000–¥65,000 per month, with utilities and Wi-Fi included and little to no initial fees. Contracts are simple, and move-in is usually quick.

Apartments are more expensive, often ¥70,000–¥100,000+ per month, and require high upfront costs such as deposits, key money, and agency fees. Contracts are usually long-term and involve more paperwork.

In terms of lifestyle, apartments offer full privacy, while share houses provide private rooms with shared common areas and a more social environment.

Overall, share houses are better suited for short-term stays, first-time residents in Japan, and those seeking affordability, while apartments work better for long-term residents who prioritize privacy.

How to Rent a Share House in Chofu as a Foreigner

Renting a share house in Chofu is relatively simple, even for those with no prior experience living in Japan. The process is designed to be faster and more flexible than renting a private apartment.

Most share houses do not require a Japanese guarantor, and many accept short-term stays. In many cases, you can apply online, communicate in English, and move in within a few days.

Typically, the process includes:

• Choosing a room and checking availability
• Submitting basic documents (passport and visa)
• Signing a simple rental agreement
• Paying the first month’s rent and administrative fees, if applicable

Rooms are fully furnished, and utilities are included, so you can move in immediately without buying furniture or setting up services.

For foreigners who want a smooth, low-stress housing option near Tokyo, renting a share house in Chofu is one of the easiest ways to get started.

Why XROSS HOUSE Is Recommended in Chofu

XROSS HOUSE is a trusted share house brand known for offering affordable, foreigner-friendly housing across Tokyo, including the Chofu area. It is especially popular with international residents who want a simple and reliable rental experience.

XROSS HOUSE properties in and around Chofu feature fully furnished private rooms, with utilities and Wi-Fi included in the monthly rent. This allows residents to move in immediately without extra setup or hidden costs.

Another key reason for its popularity is the easy rental process. There is no key money, no large deposit, and no need for a Japanese guarantor. Applications can be completed online, and English support is available, making it accessible even for first-time visitors to Japan.

For foreigners looking for a comfortable, cost-effective share house near Tokyo, XROSS HOUSE offers a balance of convenience, transparency, and peace of mind.

Who Is a Chofu Share House Best For?

A share house in Chofu is a good fit for a wide range of foreign residents, especially those looking for affordable housing with easy access to Tokyo.

It is particularly suitable for:

• International students studying in Tokyo who want lower rent and a quieter living environment
• Working professionals commuting to Shinjuku or other central areas
• Remote workers who prefer a calm, residential area outside the city center
• First-time residents in Japan who want a simple, foreign-friendly housing option

With flexible contracts, low initial costs, and convenient transportation, Chofu share houses are ideal for people who value both comfort and practicality.

Summary

A share house in Chofu is a smart choice for foreigners looking for affordable, comfortable living near Tokyo. With easy access to Shinjuku, lower rent than central areas, and a calm residential atmosphere, Chofu offers an excellent balance of convenience and quality of life.

For those who want a flexible, international housing option with minimal upfront costs, a Chofu share house—especially with XROSS HOUSE—is a practical and reliable solution.