What is the appeal of living alone in Fukuoka?
Fukuoka City is known as the perfect city where urban convenience and natural abundance coexist. It offers all the key points for starting to live alone, such as good transportation access, low rent, and a wide range of necessary facilities, making it an ideal place for first-time residents. Here, we'll take a closer look at the appeal of living alone in Fukuoka from four perspectives.
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Convenient transportation access | Subway, JR, and airport
One of the greatest attractions of Fukuoka City is its unparalleled transportation convenience, even when compared to other cities in Japan. Fukuoka Airport is just a five-minute ride from the city center on the subway's Airport Line. Of all the major cities in Japan, Fukuoka City is famous for being the city with the airport closest to the city center.
In addition, Hakata Station is a hub for JR Kyushu lines and is also accessible by Shinkansen, making it an extremely convenient base for business trips, homecomings, and travel.Furthermore, the Nanakuma Subway Line and Nishitetsu Railways also cover a wide area of the city, making Fukuoka a stress-free place to commute to school, work, medical appointments, and outings.
The city is well-designed so that you can live without a car, and being able to keep transportation costs down and live smartly is a major benefit for those living alone.
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Rent is relatively cheap and it's easy to find housing.
Compared to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, average rents in Fukuoka City are relatively low, and there are many cost-effective rental properties available. Even in floor plans popular for single people, such as 1LDK and 1DK, it is possible to rent a newly built apartment near the station for around 50,000 to 70,000 yen.
Additionally, even if you are looking for a place within a five-minute walk of the station, near a supermarket, or with an auto-locking door, you have a wider range of options at more reasonable rents than in urban areas. There are also plenty of properties available, so it's relatively easy to find the room you want, even outside of moving season.
One of the advantages of Fukuoka is that even if you are living alone for the first time, you can find a home that is just right for you and within a reasonable budget.
Many popular stores and facilities make life very convenient
Fukuoka City is home to a wide variety of facilities and popular shops that add color to your life. In particular, central areas such as Hakata Station and Tenjin are home to a concentration of shopping malls, department stores, drugstores, cafes, convenience stores, and restaurants, covering a wide range of needs, from everyday shopping to eating out and enjoying hobbies.
Another plus point is that there are plenty of services that are useful for people living alone, such as 24-hour supermarkets, laundromats, medical facilities, and fitness gyms. Many people who live here realize that it is a "convenient town" where you can get everything you need by bicycle or within walking distance.
The smooth flow of daily life and the cityscape that allows you to spend your time meaningfully after work and on weekends enriches life in Fukuoka.
A comfortable environment with a good balance between urban and natural areas
Another attraction of Fukuoka is the exquisite balance between urban functions and natural environments. For example, just a short subway ride away, you can access places where you can experience nature, such as seaside parks (Momochihama and Seaside Momochi) and mountain walks (Aburayama and Tachibanayama). The perfect environment for refreshing your mind and body is nearby.
Furthermore, the compact urban structure means that travel from residential areas to the city center takes only a short time, freeing you from the stress of rush hour commutes and long-distance travel.
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7 recommended neighborhoods in Fukuoka City for living alone
Fukuoka City is gaining attention as a city with a good balance of transportation access, rent, convenience of living, and natural environment, making it an ideal area for those living alone for the first time. Here, we will narrow down the focus to Fukuoka City within Fukuoka Prefecture and introduce seven carefully selected areas recommended for living alone, comprehensively judging access, average rent, surrounding facilities, safety, and ease of living.
1. Hakata Station area (Hakata Ward) | Excellent access in the center of Fukuoka City
Hakata Station is a terminal station with overwhelming accessibility within Fukuoka City, and serves as the "gateway to Kyushu" with JR, Shinkansen, and the subway airport line all converging on it. There are many corporate offices in Hakata Ward, making it extremely convenient for commuting to work or school.
The large complexes "Amu Plaza Hakata" and "KITTE Hakata," directly connected to the station, are filled with restaurants, apparel stores, supermarkets, and even movie theaters, so you won't have any trouble finding something to buy. There are also many medical institutions, banks, and convenience stores within walking distance, making this an extremely convenient area for living.
However, the average rent for a 1LDK apartment is a little on the high side, at around 70,000 to 90,000 yen, but considering the accessibility and abundance of nearby facilities, it's not a bad value for money. We recommend this location to those who prioritize convenience for transportation and shopping.
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② Tenjin/Yakuin Area (Chuo Ward) | A stylish and livable town
Tenjin, the center of Fukuoka City's Chuo Ward, is one of Kyushu's largest entertainment districts, lined with department stores, fashion buildings, underground shopping malls, and more, making it a popular spot that is bustling day and night.With an abundance of art, gourmet food, and events, it's sure to stimulate your senses.
The nearby Yakuin area is a residential area with a more relaxed atmosphere than Tenjin, and is popular among young people and women as a "fashionable area" dotted with stylish cafes, general stores, and bakeries. There are many apartments and 1DK apartments for single people, making it a well-balanced living environment.
The average rent for a 1DK apartment is around 60,000 to 80,000 yen, but considering the location, security, and convenience, it doesn't seem too expensive.
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3. Around Ohashi Station (Minami Ward) | A residential area popular with university students and young people
Nishitetsu Ohashi Station in Minami-ku, Fukuoka City is conveniently located just 10 minutes by train from Tenjin, yet is popular as a residential area with a calm atmosphere. The area is home to educational institutions such as Kyushu University Ohashi Campus and Fukuoka Jogakuin, making it popular with students and young working people.
There are commercial facilities, supermarkets, drug stores, restaurants, and more all around the station, so the infrastructure is excellent. Another attractive feature is that you can easily get around by bicycle.
The average rent for a 1LDK apartment is relatively cheap at around 45,000 to 60,000 yen, making it suitable for first-timers looking to keep costs down.
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④ Nishijin/Fujisaki area (Sawara Ward) | A quiet and relaxing environment
The area around Nishijin Station and Fujisaki Station, which forms the core of Sawara Ward, is a peaceful residential area, but it is also home to the Nishijin Shopping District, large supermarkets, and restaurants, making it easy to get around in your daily life.
The area is also home to hospitals, libraries, and educational facilities, and has good public safety, making it popular with a wide range of generations, from seniors to students and families.
The average rent for a 1DK apartment is around 50,000 to 70,000 yen, which is slightly cheaper than in the city center, making it the perfect town for those looking for a quiet lifestyle.
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⑤ Meinohama/Muroumi area (Nishi Ward) | A safe town with many families
Meinohama Station and Muromi Station in Nishi Ward, Fukuoka City, are located along the Airport Line, making them convenient residential areas with direct access to Hakata Station and Tenjin. With the ocean nearby and a relaxed environment, these areas are becoming increasingly popular with families as well as single people.
There are shopping centers, home improvement centers, and large supermarkets in front of the station, so you won't have any trouble finding something to buy.
The rent for a 1LDK apartment is about 50,000 to 65,000 yen. The area is safe and offers both the convenience of the city and the tranquility of the suburbs.
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⑥ Ropponmatsu Area (Chuo Ward) | A new spot attracting attention due to redevelopment
Ropponmatsu, which has undergone rapid development in recent years, is a unique town surrounded by nature and culture despite being located in Fukuoka City's Chuo Ward. The popular "Ropponmatsu 421" is home to popular spots such as the Fukuoka City Science Museum and Tsutaya Bookstore, making it an ideal living environment for young people.
Furthermore, with the construction of the Nanakuma Subway Line, access to Tenjin and Hakata has been greatly improved, making this an area that is currently attracting attention for its fusion of culture and convenience.
Rent is a little high, at around 60,000 to 80,000 yen for a 1DK apartment, but the quality of life is very high. This is a recommended area for those seeking a stylish and intelligent lifestyle.
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7. Hakozaki/Chihaya Area (Higashi Ward) | A hidden gem of a residential area with low rent
Although the areas around Hakozaki and Chihaya in Higashi Ward, Fukuoka City, are a little far from the center of Fukuoka City, the JR Kagoshima Main Line and Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line are accessible, so access to Hakata Station is not a problem.
The area's greatest appeal is its low rent, with 1LDK apartments costing around 40,000 to 55,000 yen, making it the perfect place for those looking to rent a spacious apartment at a reasonable price. There are also many parks and libraries, making it a quiet residential area where time passes slowly.
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Things you should know before starting to live alone in Fukuoka
Here are three important points that people looking to move into Fukuoka City should know beforehand. We'll provide detailed information on average rents, subway line characteristics, and what to consider when choosing a neighborhood, so you can avoid making a mistake when choosing an area.
Rent prices vary greatly depending on the area
In Fukuoka City, rents for 1K and 1LDK apartments for single people vary greatly depending on the area. For example, properties around Hakata Station and Tenjin Station, which have good transportation access and a concentration of commercial facilities, tend to have high rents, with even a studio apartment costing around 60,000 to 70,000 yen.
On the other hand, in suburban areas such as Jonan, Sawara, and Minami wards, which are a little further from the subway lines, rent is relatively cheap, and you can sometimes find properties for around 40,000 to 50,000 yen. If you are particular about the area you want to live in, be sure to carefully consider the balance with rent.
Differences and features between the Kuko Line and Nanakuma Line
Fukuoka City's subway is mainly divided into three lines: the Airport Line, the Nanakuma Line, and the Hakozaki Line, but the Airport Line and the Nanakuma Line are the ones that people use most often on a daily basis.
The Airport Line is a major line connecting Fukuoka Airport, Hakata, Tenjin, Nishijin, and Meinohama. It is convenient for commuting to work or school, and you can access Hakata Station and Tenjin Station without changing trains. Because of its convenience, rent along the line is a little on the higher side.
The Nanakuma Line runs through Tenjin Minami, Yakuin, Ropponmatsu, Fukudai-mae, and Hashimoto, and is characterized by its relatively new and numerous residential areas. It is less crowded than the Airport Line, and it is easier to find affordable properties along the line.
Transportation convenience has a big impact on the comfort of your life, so make sure to check whether your frequently used stations and destinations are easily accessible before making your selection.
Compare cities from three perspectives: transportation access, shopping, and safety
It's a bit risky to decide based solely on proximity to the station or low rent. When choosing a city in Fukuoka, keeping the following three points in mind will help you avoid making a mistake.
- Good transport access: Check the distance to major stations, commute times, number of buses and subways, etc.
- Convenience of shopping: Are there supermarkets, convenience stores, drugstores, etc. nearby? Stores that are open late at night are also convenient.
- Safety and peace of mind in the living environment: It's a good idea to check the atmosphere during the day and at night. For women living alone, it's important to consider the presence or absence of pedestrian traffic, streetlights, and the quietness of the residential area.
Especially if it's your first time living alone, we recommend that you don't just rely on information online, but actually walk around the area and check it out. When you're being shown around, ask about the route from the station and the atmosphere at night, so you can choose a place where you can live with peace of mind.
How to find a place to live alone in Fukuoka
When starting a life on your own in Fukuoka, it's important to efficiently search for a property that meets your desired conditions. Clarifying conditions such as rent, location, and layout, and using real estate websites and apps to actually see the property and compare options will lead to an apartment selection you won't regret.
Tips for using rental sites and apps
If you're looking for a place to live alone in Fukuoka City, try major rental sites like SUUMO and LIFULL HOME'S, or the app versions at home and CHINTAI. The following features are particularly useful:
- "Area Search": You can narrow your search to popular areas in Fukuoka City, such as Chuo Ward, Hakata Ward, and Minami Ward.
- "Line Search": Specify a station along the subway Airport Line or Nanakuma Line, and add conditions such as "within a 5-minute walk from the station."
- "Special conditions": You can narrow down your search by facilities that are convenient for people living alone, such as separate bathroom and toilet, delivery box, and auto-lock.
- If you choose a room that comes with furniture and appliances or no deposit or key money, it is also recommended for those who want to keep initial costs down.
Another major benefit is that by using "favorites" and "notification settings," you won't miss out on new properties and can act quickly.
If you want to keep initial costs down, "Cross House" is also an option
For those who want to keep initial costs down when starting their own life in Fukuoka, we recommend Cross House's shared houses and furnished rental properties. There are no security deposits or key money, and there are few complicated procedures.
Furthermore, most rooms come equipped with furniture and appliances, which can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing items when moving.
There are also multiple properties in major areas such as Hakata Station and Tenjin Station, making them convenient for commuting to work or school. From shared house-style properties to single rooms that prioritize privacy, you can choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.
Cross House is a safe and easy choice, especially for those who are living alone for the first time or who cannot afford to purchase furniture and appliances.
Points to check when visiting the site
If you find a property that interests you, be sure to view it in person. The "ease of living" that you can't tell from photos and floor plans alone can only be seen by actually visiting the property. The points you should especially check are as follows.
- Sunlight and ventilation: Even if the house faces south, it may be dark due to the influence of neighboring buildings. It is a good idea to check the house several times at different times.
- Surrounding noise: Noise can be a concern in areas such as near major roads, train tracks, or schools. If you're looking for a quiet environment, it's essential to check the noise levels.
- Distance and route from the station: "5 minutes on foot" may refer to the distance in a straight line. Try walking the route yourself to check whether there are any slopes, streetlights, and safety.
- Availability of nearby facilities: Check the distance to supermarkets, convenience stores, and drugstores. It's convenient if there are stores nearby that are open late into the night.
- Public safety and city atmosphere: The atmosphere can change dramatically between day and night. It's best to avoid roads with little traffic at night and dark alleys.
Also, don't forget to check how the management company and landlord handle things. Whether they respond properly when you have a problem is very important if you want to live there for a long time.
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Estimated living expenses for living alone in Fukuoka
When starting to live alone in Fukuoka, it's important to know in advance how much your living expenses will be in addition to rent. In this chapter, we'll introduce in detail the average monthly fixed costs such as utilities, food, and communication fees, as well as differences in prices between areas of Fukuoka City, and even tips for saving money.
What are your monthly fixed costs other than rent?
A single person living in Fukuoka will need an average of 100,000 to 150,000 yen per month for living expenses. Below is a rough guide to the main fixed costs.
- Utility costs: 8,000 to 10,000 yen (varies depending on the season)
- Food expenses: 20,000 to 30,000 yen (it's possible to stay under 20,000 yen if you mainly cook at home)
- Communication costs (smartphone + internet): 5,000 to 10,000 yen
- Transportation costs: 5,000 to 10,000 yen (depending on the location of your workplace or school)
- Daily necessities and miscellaneous expenses: 3,000 to 5,000 yen
By being frugal, it is possible to keep your monthly expenses under 100,000 yen. However, eating out too often can increase your expenses, so it is important to be conscious of living a balanced life.
Check the price differences by area
Prices and living costs in Fukuoka City vary depending on the area. Below are some of the main trends.
- Central area (Tenjin/Hakata): Rent, eating out, and daily necessities are all expensive. Convenience is the best.
- Suburban areas such as Minami-ku, Higashi-ku, and Nishi-ku: Rent is cheap and supermarket prices are reasonable.
- Sawara Ward (Nishijin area): As this is a student town, there are many value-for-money restaurants and prices are relatively low.
When choosing an area, consider the balance between access to work or school and living costs.
Shopping and transportation tips for those who want to save money
You can save money on your daily food expenses by making good use of local supermarkets, greengrocers, and drugstores. Shopping districts often have special sales and discounts, so you might even find a bargain.
We recommend using a commuter pass or transportation IC card for commuting to work or school. There are plenty of discounts available for students and commuters. Using a shared bicycle is also a great way to travel short distances.
Useful information on facilities and services for living alone in Fukuoka
To live comfortably alone, it is important to have a wide range of facilities and services to support your daily life. Fukuoka City has many urban functions concentrated in a compact area, making it highly convenient for daily life. In this chapter, we will introduce the wide range of supermarkets and medical facilities, as well as convenient services unique to the area.
Which cities have the most 24-hour supermarkets and convenience stores?
- There are many 24-hour supermarkets and convenience stores around Hakata Station and Tenjin.
- A major benefit is that even people who get home late at night or work shifts can shop without worrying about time.
- Drugstores and 100 yen shops are often open late into the night, making them convenient for sudden shopping trips.
Enhanced medical and public facilities provide a sense of security
- Fukuoka City is dotted with many general hospitals and clinics, so you can get immediate medical attention even if you suddenly become ill.
- Public facilities such as ward offices and libraries are located in each ward, making them easily accessible.
Convenient subscriptions, delivery services, and local services for those living alone
In Fukuoka City, the following services are becoming increasingly popular and can significantly reduce the time and hassle of living alone.
- Food delivery services (Oisix, Yoshikei, Co-op, etc.)
- Dry cleaning and cleaning services
- Shared bicycle "ChariChari"
- Coin laundry and laundry delivery services
- Same-day delivery from Amazon and Rakuten (urban areas only)
Even people who aren't good at cooking or doing laundry can live stress-free by using these convenient services.
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Summary | Find the perfect city to live in Fukuoka
Fukuoka City is a city that offers all three of the benefits of low rent, good transportation access, and high convenience for daily life, making it highly recommended for those living alone for the first time. In particular, although it is a regional city, urban functions are compactly concentrated, and the convenience of being able to find everything you need within walking distance has been well received by many people who have moved here.
Rent, living costs, and atmosphere vary greatly depending on the area, so don't make a decision based solely on information online; if possible , go and see the town in person to get a feel for it. Where you live is an important decision that will directly affect your daily life. We hope this article will give you some hints on how to find the perfect lifestyle for you.
