Best Areas to Live in Tokyo for Expats: 2024 Guide

When deciding on where to live in Tokyo, expats often look for areas that cater to their lifestyle, whether they’re moving alone or with family. In this article, we have taken some recent data in 2024 to decide which are the best areas to live in Tokyo for expats – whether you are deciding to come solo or with your family.

The data we have compiled are from Statistics of Tokyo Government Data which was released recently in January 2024 (in Japanese).

Tokyo Expats By the Numbers:

• Shinjuku houses the highest population of foreign residents within Tokyo’s wards, indicative of its diverse and inclusive environment.
• As for nationalities, the largest expat communities hail from China, South Korea, and Vietnam. However, there are also significant numbers from Western countries: 17,578 Americans, 3,215 Australians, and 6,107 British residents are based in Tokyo, with many preferring wards like Minato for its international atmosphere and services
• Minato–ku, Tokyo’s wealthiest neighborhood, stands out for its high number of North American expats

Best Areas to Live in Tokyo Single Expats

Shibuya (Hiroo, Ebisu, and Daikanyama)

Shibuya is an energetic and iconic hub in Tokyo that appeals to a wide range of expats.

Within Shibuya, Hiroo is an excellent choice to live in Tokyo as an expat. With a selection of embassies and international schools nearby, it’s comfortable to live here as an expat. In fact, one of the biggest international grocery store in Tokyo, National Azabu, is here in Hiroo. Even for expats with Kids, Hiroo has International School of the Sacred Heart (all-girls) making it one of the best areas to live in Tokyo for expats.

Moving over to Ebisu and Daikanyama, you’ll find that these sub-areas of Shibuya offer a calm respite from the city’s hustle.

Ebisu’s art spaces and fine dining scenes provide ample socializing opportunities, while Daikanyama is a haven for those with a penchant for design and boutique shopping. These areas offer luxury experiences in Japan and are just a stone’s throw away from exciting ventures like the ones you’d find in Shibuya’s rooftop bars.

Minato (Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu)

Minato is known for its polished streets as well as the wealthiest neighborhood in Tokyo, with areas like Roppongi and Akasaka providing an endless variety of nightlife and dining. The best place to stay in Tokyo as an American expat is in Minato, proven by the ward having the most number of American residents.

In Azabu, the environment is decidedly more refined, with tree-lined streets and upscale residences. Here, you’ll find many American and Canadian expats enjoying the high life. Nishimachi International School is based in Azabu as well.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a magnet for expats who thrive in a fast-paced, vibrant urban environment. Known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling train station — the world’s busiest — and a myriad of shopping and dining options, Shinjuku, just like Shibuya, is never short on excitement.

Some of Tokyo’s most expensive hotels are located in Shinjuku like Park Hyatt Tokyo.

• Nishi-Shinjuku is particularly well-suited for expats working in finance or corporate sectors, given its status as Tokyo’s skyscraper district with many corporate headquarters.
• Kabukicho, Shinjuku’s entertainment and red-light district, though perhaps not for everyone, is a beacon for those seeking a slice of Tokyo’s nightlife.
• Shinjuku Ni-chome is famous for being Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ friendly town, offering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.

For expats who love the idea of living where there’s always something happening, Shinjuku offers an energetic lifestyle with the convenience of inner-city living.

Shinjuku also houses Shinjuku Station which is the world’s busiest station. Of course, it has pros and cons like being very busy, but basically it is quite easy to have day trips for some weekend getaways like going to Nikko for a day trip from Tokyo if you are in Shinjuku.

Best Areas to Live in Tokyo for Expats with Family

Setagaya (Including Kichijoji and Shimokitazawa)

While technically Kichijoji is located in Musashino City, it’s commonly associated with Setagaya’s lifestyle due to its proximity and shared ambiance as well as international community. In fact, Saint Mary’s International School is based in Setagaya which is perfect for expats with kids looking for a place to live in Tokyo.

Kichijoji consistently ranks highly in polls of most desired places to live, largely due to its lush parklands, family-oriented community, and harmonious living environment.

Shimokitazawa, the hip neighborhood known for its vintage stores, theaters, and live music venues, offers a culturally rich environment for families looking for an energetic yet down-to-earth atmosphere.

For those moving with family, Setagaya provides a peaceful, child-friendly environment with spacious parks and reputable international schools. The area is preferred by expats looking for a quieter life without sacrificing the perks of the city.

Chiyoda (Kanda and Akihabara)

Chiyoda is the political heart of Tokyo, with the Imperial Palace and the National Diet. Kanda is rich with academic institutions and bookstores, providing an intellectually stimulating environment for families.

Chiyoda is also very near to Tokyo’s Luxury District which is Ginza, a popular place among wealthy Japanese as well as expats which also houses Tokyo’s most upscale shopping malls.

Akihabara is world-renowned for its electronics and otaku culture, offering an eclectic experience for families interested in modern Japanese pop culture. This area suits those who enjoy being in the middle of it all, with a mix of modern amenities and cultural landmarks.

Best Budget-Friendly Areas to Live in Japan for Expats

Taito (Including Asakusa and Ueno)

For expatriates mindful of their budget, Taito Ward offers a balance between affordability and cultural experience. The most popular areas to live in Tokyo are Asakusa and Ueno.

Asakusa is renowned for the Senso-ji Temple and its old-town ambiance that gives a glimpse into the Tokyo of yesteryear.

Ueno boasts a large park with museums and a zoo, providing ample recreational options for families. The cost of living here is generally lower compared to the more upscale neighborhoods, making it a wise choice for those looking to stretch their yen further.

Travelers as well as expats are usually torn between choosing Ueno or Asakusa since both of these areas offer budget-friendly options whether for travel or living in Japan.

Wrap Up

In this guide, we’ve gathered up-to-date statistics on expat populations in Tokyo, providing a clear picture of the best areas to live in Tokyo for expats in 2024.

Shinjuku takes the lead with its diverse and inclusive vibe, making it a hotspot for foreign residents in Tokyo. When it comes to nationalities, you’ll find a melting pot of expats from China, South Korea, Vietnam, as well as a notable presence from Western countries like the USA, Australia, and the UK.

If you’re flying solo and seeking an energetic vibe, look no further than Shibuya. Hiroo, Ebisu, and Daikanyama, nestled within Shibuya, offer a blend of convenience and charm. Hiroo, in particular, boasts international schools and embassy hubs, while Daikanyama is a mecca for design enthusiasts and boutique lovers.

For those craving a taste of luxury, Minato-ku steals the show. Roppongi, Akasaka, and Azabu, part of Minato, are renowned for their upscale living and vibrant nightlife. Azabu, with its tree-lined streets and upscale residences, is a haven for North American expats seeking refined living experiences.

If family is in the picture, Setagaya and Chiyoda have got you covered. Setagaya, home to areas like Kichijoji and Shimokitazawa, offers a harmonious blend of community living and cultural richness. Meanwhile, Chiyoda’s Kanda and Akihabara provide an intellectually stimulating environment with a dash of modern pop culture.

For budget-conscious expats, Taito’s Asakusa and Ueno offer budget-friendly living without skimping on cultural experiences. Asakusa’s historic charm and Ueno’s recreational offerings provide a mix of affordability and experiencing Japanese culture.