What is the ranking of "cities to live in" in Osaka? Evaluation criteria and survey source
The "Osaka City Rankings for Places to Live" are an important indicator for many home-hunters and those hoping to relocate. Published annually by SUUMO, LIFULL HOME'S, ii-heya.net, and others, the rankings are compiled from multiple perspectives, including convenience, safety, image, and the city's potential for development.
The rankings are based on the real opinions of prospective residents, search data, the brand power of the city, and other criteria, making them useful for finding out which cities are currently attracting attention.Since each survey uses different subjects and methods, comparing multiple rankings can give you hints on which city in Osaka is right for you.
What are the main evaluation criteria that affect rankings?
There are a wide variety of evaluation criteria that influence the ranking of cities people want to live in.
Representative examples include
- "Good transportation access"
- "Good public safety"
- "Convenience of daily life"
- "Image of the city"
- "Future potential through redevelopment"
Additionally, many people place importance on ease of daily living, such as "the abundance of restaurants" and "the abundance of parks and green spaces," and desired conditions also change depending on life stage, such as families, single people, seniors, etc. In each survey, these elements are scored based on questionnaire and search behavior data, reflecting the balance between actual living environments and people's ideals.
Differences in survey sources (SUUMO, Iieya Net, LIFULL HOME'S, etc.)
It is important to note that the methods of calculation and target demographics for rankings of cities people want to live in vary depending on the source of the survey.
For example, SUUMO compiles data based on surveys of people who actually want to live in major cities such as the Tokyo and Kansai regions.
On the other hand, iiheya.net bases its rankings on the evaluation of "livability" based on tenant satisfaction, while LIFULL HOME'S creates its rankings based on data on "searched cities."
As the opinions of "people who actually live" and "people who want to live in the area in the future" are mixed together, the key to choosing a city without making a mistake is to understand and utilize the background of each survey.
Also pay attention to the difference between a city you want to live in and a city that is easy to live in
"Cities you want to live in" and "cities that are easy to live in" may seem similar at first glance, but because they are based on different evaluation criteria, there can be discrepancies in the rankings.
When choosing a city to live in, people place importance on its image and aspirations, with popular tourist and commercial areas such as Umeda and Shinsaibashi tending to rank highly. On the other hand, cities that are easy to live in are chosen based on practical aspects of daily life, such as average rent, public safety, educational environment, and convenience of shopping.
When looking at rankings, it's important to select and discard information based on the criteria that best suit your lifestyle and goals. If you're looking for practical benefits rather than something you aspire to, it's best to prioritize livability.
Top 10 cities in Osaka where people want to live (2025 update)
The ranking of "desirable cities to live in" in Osaka in 2025 is determined by comprehensively evaluating factors such as transportation convenience, progress in redevelopment, and the comfort of the living environment. Based on surveys by SUUMO, LIFULL HOME'S, and ii-heya.net, Umeda, Tennoji, Takatsuki City, and other areas rank highly. Areas that cater to a variety of lifestyles, from single people to families, are attracting attention.
This ranking introduces the top 10 cities where people want to live. The results reflect the latest residential needs and regional changes, making it a useful indicator for anyone considering a home in Osaka Prefecture. Please use it as a reference.
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No. 1 | Umeda (Kita-ku, Osaka) | Convenient and trendy
Umeda, Osaka's terminal station, is a popular area that has been ranked number one as the "city people want to live in" for four consecutive years. In addition to its excellent accessibility with JR, Hankyu, and subway lines converging, the area has been highly praised for its evolution through large-scale commercial facilities and redevelopment.
With a concentration of trendy spots like Grand Front Osaka and LUCUA, the area offers everything you need for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It also boasts excellent commuting convenience for businesspeople working in Osaka City. The area embodies the charms of the city, and is popular with single people and young people alike.
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No. 2 | Tennoji (Tennoji Ward, Osaka City) | An area that combines history and redevelopment
Tennoji is a popular area where historical cultural assets and cutting-edge facilities are combined. Commercial facilities such as Abeno Harukas and Abeno Q's Mall are directly connected to the station, and redevelopment has made the city increasingly convenient and attractive. There are also plenty of tourist attractions such as Tennoji Zoo and Shitennoji Temple, so there are plenty of ways to enjoy your days off.
There are plenty of supermarkets and medical facilities around the station, making it an ideal place to live for those seeking a balance of culture, convenience, and livability in Osaka City.
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No. 3 | Takatsuki City | A city where central Tokyo access and nature coexist
Takatsuki City is located halfway between Osaka and Kyoto, and is easily accessible to both cities, within 30 minutes by train. Accessible via both JR and Hankyu lines, it's a convenient location for commuting to work or school. The city is home to many lush parks and natural areas, making it a popular area for families raising children. The city is also home to a wide range of educational and medical institutions, and is highly rated for its well-balanced livability.
The city center is home to large shopping malls and restaurants, making it extremely convenient for daily life. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy both the city and nature.
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No. 4 | Fukushima (Fukushima Ward, Osaka City) | A popular area where gourmet food and fashion come together
The Fukushima area is conveniently located just one station from Umeda, yet boasts a calm residential atmosphere. Lined with stylish cafes, hidden restaurants, and unique shops, it is highly popular among young people and creative people.
Recently, the construction of tower apartments has progressed, and the cityscape has evolved into a modern one. With good transportation access and a smooth commute to the business district, it is an ideal place to live for the working generation. It is the perfect city for those seeking gourmet food, culture, and convenience.
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5th place | Minoh City | Rich in greenery and popular with families raising children
Minoh City is highly regarded as a city with a particularly well-developed natural and educational environment in the Hokusetsu area. One of its greatest attractions is the opportunity to live a peaceful life surrounded by nature, with attractions such as Minoh Falls and Minoh Park. The opening of the new Minoh Kayano station has improved transportation convenience, making commuting to the city center even smoother.
The area has good public safety and a strong focus on child-rearing support, making it a popular area among families. It is a recommended city for those who value a relaxed lifestyle and a good educational environment.
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6th place | Suita City | A residential city undergoing redevelopment in the Expo area
Suita City is a popular area undergoing redevelopment, including Expo Commemoration Park and EXPOCITY. The area around LaLaport EXPOCITY in particular is home to a concentration of shopping and leisure facilities, making it a convenient place to live. It also has good access to Osaka City, with both JR and Hankyu lines available.
The area has a high level of public safety and education, which is one of the reasons it is popular with families. Redevelopment may also increase property values, making it a popular place to live in the future.
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7th place | Namba (Chuo-ku, Osaka) | A tourist destination and urban hub
The Namba area is one of Osaka's most famous tourist and commercial areas, but it also functions as a residential area. As the center of the Minami area, it is within walking distance of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. Multiple lines, including the subway, Nankai Line, and Kintetsu Line, intersect here, making it convenient for commuting to work or school.
With an abundance of convenient facilities and restaurants, this area is perfect for those who want to live an active life in the city. Although you should be careful of the traffic and noise at night, this is an attractive area for city enthusiasts.
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No. 8 | Abeno Ward | Educational district and large commercial facilities
Abeno Ward in Osaka City is known as an educational district, and is an area where a calm atmosphere and urban functions coexist in a good balance. Redevelopment is underway, centered around Abeno Harukas, and the area is home to commercial facilities, medical institutions, and educational institutions.
In addition, Tennoji is home to a wealth of cultural facilities, including Tennoji Park and art museums, making it popular with those who appreciate an intellectual and refined lifestyle. The area is also relatively safe, and is rated as a livable city for a wide range of people, from families with children to the elderly.
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9th place | Toyonaka City | High level of public safety and education, great for families
Toyonaka city is a popular area in Hokusetsu, adjacent to Osaka city, with a quiet and peaceful residential area. It is known for its good public safety and high level of education, with many highly rated public and private schools.
With plenty of nature in areas like Senri Chuo and Hattori Ryokuchi, the area offers an ideal environment for raising children. It's also convenient for commuting to Osaka city, and continues to be popular as a bedroom community. It's a highly attractive option for families seeking a stable life in the future.
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No. 10 | Joto Ward | A highly convenient ward undergoing redevelopment
Joto Ward in Osaka City has been attracting attention in recent years as an area undergoing redevelopment and infrastructure development. With major stations such as Kyobashi and Shigino nearby, it offers smooth access to all parts of Osaka City. Supermarkets, hospitals, and childcare facilities are also readily available, making it an attractive area for its ease of living.
Rent prices are relatively stable, and the area is gaining popularity as a cost-effective place. Public safety and the educational environment are also improving, making it a pleasant area to live in with high expectations for future development.
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Why do you want to live here? Characteristics of the top-ranked areas and reasons for choosing them
Areas in Osaka that rank highly as "desirable places to live" have one thing in common. Among these, the most important aspects are the quality of basic living facilities such as "transportation access," "safety," and "education and child-rearing environment."
Additionally, areas that have improved their convenience and image due to urban redevelopment and the development of commercial facilities are also gaining popularity. Rather than simply having low rent or being close to the station, people tend to place more importance on long-term perspectives, such as "will I be able to live there safely in the future?" and "will I be satisfied living there?" when choosing a city.
In this chapter, we will explain the characteristics of the top-ranked areas and why they are chosen.
Good transportation access is a prerequisite for popularity
The first condition that comes up when choosing a city to live in is convenient transportation access. In Osaka, areas with good access to major stations such as Umeda, Tennoji, and Takatsuki are particularly popular.
Important points are whether there is a station with access to multiple lines or whether it is possible to commute to the city center in less than 30 minutes. In addition, advantages such as a short distance from the station to the residence or a station with a starting point are also likely to be valued, and the comfort of daily commuting to work or school determines how comfortable one feels to live there. A high level of transportation convenience that can accommodate future lifestyle changes can also be said to be the top priority when choosing a city.
Improving public safety, child-rearing environment, and educational infrastructure
Another major reason why cities are chosen as desirable places to live is that they have a safe and secure environment. Good public safety is especially important for those raising children and women living alone, and cities such as Toyonaka, Minoh, and Suita are highly rated in this regard.
Other selection criteria include the number and quality of childcare facilities and schools, and the availability of childcare support systems. Areas with a well-developed educational infrastructure offer peace of mind in terms of academic improvement and college progression rates, making them popular as places to live with an eye to the future. A safe and secure living environment is an essential requirement for a city where people can continue living for a long time.
Be sure to check out the fashionable spots and the impact of redevelopment
In addition to convenience, the city's appeal and image also play a major role in rankings of the most desirable places to live. Fukushima, Tennoji, Abeno, and other areas are popular among young people as areas where people can enjoy walking around and where stylish cafes and select shops are concentrated.
Additionally, in areas undergoing redevelopment, the living environment has been transformed by infrastructure improvements and the expansion of commercial facilities, improving convenience and asset value. The "potential for growth" of such towns is also being valued, and there are an increasing number of cases where people choose these areas with high expectations for their future development. It can also be said that a modern trend is to value trendiness and newness.
How to choose the best area for your lifestyle!
When choosing a home in Osaka, it is important to choose an area that suits your lifestyle. The environment and priorities required vary depending on the lifestyle of each individual, such as living alone, working couples, families with children, or students.
For example, for working adults who prioritize transportation access, areas around terminal stations are key, while for families who prioritize an educational environment, areas with good public safety and school districts are key. Also, for young people and students looking to keep costs down, hidden gems with good value for money are the best targets.
Here we will introduce the characteristics of the best areas for your purpose and how to choose them.
Here are some popular areas for people living alone and working adults!
Areas that offer a good balance between convenient commuting and a good living environment are popular among working adults living alone in Osaka.
Typical examples include Fukushima Ward, Tennoji Ward, and Kita Ward (around Umeda). Many stations are served by multiple train lines, making commuting less stressful. There are plenty of supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants in front of the stations, and many are open until late at night, making them ideal for busy business people. There are also plenty of apartments and studio rentals for singles.
By choosing an area with good public safety, you can start living alone with peace of mind.
What kind of local governments are supported by families raising children?
The main points that people choosing areas for raising children are whether they have good public safety, good educational environment, abundant nature, and a good child-rearing support system.
In Osaka, the Hokusetsu area, including Suita, Toyonaka, and Minoh, is particularly popular, with plenty of parks, libraries, and childcare facilities.
The good reputation of the schools and the active local community are also reassuring factors. There are also many spacious properties and condominiums for sale that are suitable for families, making it an ideal place to live if you intend to live there for a long time.
The local government also provides generous support for child-rearing, and the area is characterized by high levels of life satisfaction.
Introducing hidden gems popular with students and young people
For students and young people who want to live conveniently while keeping costs down, "hidden gem areas" with relatively low rent and good access are popular.
For example, areas such as Joto Ward, Higashiosaka City, and Yao City have good access to central Osaka and relatively low average rents for 1K and 1DK apartments, making them ideal for those living alone for the first time.
Also attracting attention recently are areas for young people such as Nakazakicho and Tanimachi Rokuchome, which combine the atmosphere of a downtown area with cafe culture.
It's the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a stylish lifestyle while keeping costs down.
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Check out Osaka's top cities to live in and past rankings
The ranking of Osaka's most desirable cities to live in is announced every year, and by looking at the changes from year to year, you can understand the popularity trends of the area and the city's growth.
For example, while Umeda and Tennoji have consistently maintained their high rankings, areas undergoing redevelopment or areas with new stations have seen their rankings rise sharply. As of 2025, the Expo area and residential cities in Hokusetsu are attracting particular attention, with an increasing number of people moving there who prioritize living environment and property value.
Observing these trends can give us clues as to whether a city will be worth living in in the future, rather than simply being a temporary favorite.
What has changed compared to the 2024 rankings?
Compared to 2024, suburban areas such as Takatsuki City and Minoh City have risen in the rankings for 2025. This is due to the increasing need to move to cities with good environments a little further away from the city center, due to the spread of telework and changes in values that emphasize child-rearing.
On the other hand, some central areas such as Namba and Shinsaibashi, which have always been popular, are showing a tendency to drop in rankings as people are put off by the high congestion and rents, despite their high convenience.
Comparing with the previous year makes it clear how changes in values and lifestyles of the times are reflected in people's choice of city.
What are the trends in cities that are gaining popularity and cities that have plummeted in popularity?
In recent years, areas undergoing redevelopment, such as Fukushima Ward and Abeno Ward, have seen a surge in popularity.
In addition to its good transportation access, the city's image has been revamped with an increase in stylish cafes and convenient facilities, as well as the construction of tower apartment buildings, attracting attention from many young people and families.
On the other hand, cities that have fallen in the rankings have factors such as "rising rents," "long commute times," and "issues regarding public safety and noise have surfaced."
The rise and fall of the rankings reflects the actual conditions of the area, so when choosing a city, it is important to check not only the evaluation for a single year, but also the trends and background.
summary
When choosing a city to live in in Osaka Prefecture, it's important to identify an area that suits your lifestyle and values. In addition to the classic popular areas of Umeda and Tennoji, the 2025 ranking also includes Fukushima Ward, which is undergoing redevelopment, and Minoh City and Suita City, which are popular with the child-rearing generation.
The changes in the rankings reveal a trend of prioritizing living environment, convenience, public safety, educational environment, etc. In particular, suburban areas are also becoming more highly rated due to the spread of teleworking and diverse working styles.
Use this article as a reference to choose a city that suits your purpose and life stage, and find a home you won't regret. By paying attention to past trends and future development potential, you can choose an area that will satisfy you in the long term.
