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Setagaya-ku, Japan

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,700
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
85.4
Healthcare
1451 facilities

With a population of over 877,000, Setagaya-ku is the most populous special ward in Tokyo. However, the sprawling residential neighborhoods and lack of north-south rail lines mean navigating the area can be a bureaucratic headache. Life expectancy for women is an impressive 88.9 years, but the density and sheer size of the ward make it feel more like a small city than a Tokyo suburb. Setagaya boasts an impressive array of parks, museums, and cultural facilities, but those seeking a more intimate, walkable community may find the scale and sprawl overwhelming.

Can I afford Setagaya-ku?

$

Setagaya-ku

You could save

300/mo

Savings Rate10%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,500
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,200

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
10/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
85
Safety
1451
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$3
Eggs (12) $1
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$7
Meal (Mid-range) $53
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $156
Mobile Plan (mo) $23
Gym (mo) *$63
Cinema Ticket $12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,500
1BR Outside (mo) *$364
3BR Center (mo) $3,200
3BR Outside (mo) *$729

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Shimokitazawa, Sangenjaya, Futako-Tamagawa
Best For
families, young professionals

Expat Life Notes

A highly desirable residential ward in Tokyo known for its family-friendly parks and trendy, bohemian neighborhoods.

Pros

  • ✓ Excellent shopping and cafes
  • ✓ Very safe and green
  • ✓ Great schools

Cons

  • ✗ High rent prices
  • ✗ Can be very crowded
  • ✗ English limited outside major stations

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
2°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1391 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Apr, May, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Setagaya-ku

Click any question to expand the answer.

Setagaya-ku has a population of approximately 877,138 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,750 per month in Setagaya-ku, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1500/month.

The nearest airport to Setagaya-ku is HND, approximately 16km away.

Setagaya-ku is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 85.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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