Many of you are coming to Japan to start a new chapter in life—whether as a student or a worker. When renting an apartment here, there are several upfront expenses you’ll need to prepare for: contract-related fees, furniture, and sometimes even moving costs if this isn’t your first time in Japan. So how much should you budget to avoid getting overwhelmed? What are the average monthly living costs for a single person? In this article, we’ll walk you through the typical costs of renting an apartment in Japan.

Upfront costs in Japan can total five to six months’ rent

What does the upfront cost include?

The biggest expense when renting in Japan usually comes from the initial payment made when signing the lease. This typically includes a deposit, a “gift” to the landlord, a realtor fee, one or more months of prepaid rent, a guarantor fee (paid to a guarantor company), insurance, lock-changing fees, and more.
For a one-room apartment, the total can often add up to five to six months’ rent. The actual amount may vary depending on the property or the way the lease is signed, so always check the terms carefully before signing.

Deposit

Usually equivalent to one month’s rent—sometimes two for newer properties. This deposit is paid upfront and is meant to cover repairs and cleaning when you move out. It’s refundable, but deductions are made for restoration costs.
In Japan, there are strict rental rules—don’t drill holes, don’t change the wallpaper, and if you’re renting a Japanese-style room, you’ll be charged for replacing tatami mats and sliding paper doors. So don’t expect to get the full deposit back.

Gift (Key Money)

Typically one month’s rent—again, sometimes two. This is a non-refundable payment given as a gesture of gratitude to the landlord for letting you rent the apartment.
Although not required by law, this practice is deeply rooted in Japanese rental culture. Listings usually indicate whether key money is required. Fortunately, more and more properties now don’t ask for it, so if you’re looking to save on upfront costs, focus on those.

Realtor Fee

Generally one month’s rent.
If you find the apartment through a real estate agent and sign the lease via them, you’ll be charged this fee. Some agencies may charge only half a month’s rent. Renting directly from the landlord might save you money, but many people prefer the security and convenience of having a third party involved.

Prepaid Rent

One month’s rent is usually paid upfront. If you sign your lease toward the end of the month, you may also be asked to pay for the following month (calculated daily), so be prepared to pay 1+0.x months’ rent at signing.

Guarantor Fee

In the past, foreigners needed a Japanese person to act as a guarantor, which could be difficult. Now, there are guarantor companies that can take on this role for a fee, making the process much smoother.
Most landlords today prefer you use one of these companies. The fee usually ranges from 40% to 100% of the monthly rent, depending on the apartment. If you’re renting through an agency, they’ll introduce you to a guarantor company during the application process—no need to find one yourself.

Students may be eligible for a government-backed guarantor program via JEES (Japan Educational Exchanges and Services), which costs only around ¥4,000/year. To use this, you must hold a student visa and be enrolled at a JEES-affiliated institution. Once your visa or enrollment status changes, you’ll need a new guarantor.

Insurance Fee

Renters insurance (usually including fire and property damage) is required.
Expect to pay ¥3,000–7,000 per year, often in a two-year lump sum (¥6,000–14,000) when signing the lease. You’ll need to renew and repay this when renewing your lease. This insurance covers damages from fires, earthquakes, or other disasters during your tenancy.

Lock Replacement Fee

Not mandatory, but often recommended.
Since you don’t know who had the keys before you, changing the locks adds peace of mind. This typically costs ¥15,000–¥20,000. If the building has an automatic locking system, it could be ¥25,000–¥30,000. It’s a small investment for greater safety.

Also Read:

What are the problems when renting an apartment in Japan?

What is the “worst security district” in Tokyo’s 23 districts? Where to stay for tourism? Where to rent an apartment?