The Most Affordable Areas in Kansai for Home Buyers

Buying a home in Japan’s Kansai region has become increasingly appealing for both domestic and international buyers searching for strong value, stable markets, and convenient lifestyles. While Osaka and Kyoto often dominate conversations, many people are surprised to discover how many cities across the region qualify as the most affordable areas in Kansai for home buyers, offering excellent transportation access, newer homes, and quiet neighborhoods at far lower prices than Tokyo or Yokohama.

Whether you’re looking for a family home, an investment property, or a peaceful escape from the city center, Kansai continues to provide some of Japan’s best-value real estate options.

The Most Affordable Areas in Kansai for Home Buyers: Complete Regional Breakdown

Below is a detailed guide to the most budget-friendly areas across Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Shiga, and Wakayama Prefectures, focusing on livability, transportation, home prices, and long-term potential.

Affordable Areas in Osaka Prefecture

Even within Osaka — one of Japan’s most dynamic metropolitan regions — several cities offer excellent homes at prices far below central Osaka City.

Sakai City (堺市)

Sakai is one of the most affordable areas in Kansai for home buyers who want easy access to Osaka City without Osaka City prices.

Why Sakai is affordable and popular:

• Large supply of houses under ¥20–30 million

• Direct access to Namba, Tennoji, and Shin-Osaka

• Family-friendly residential districts

• Homes often include parking and quieter streets

Kita Ward, Higashi Ward, and Naka Ward are particularly attractive for first-time buyers and families.

Higashi-Osaka City (東大阪市)

A strong mix of affordability, school districts, and transit access, Higashi-Osaka continues to draw both domestic and overseas buyers.

Highlights:

• More spacious properties than central Osaka

• JR, Kintetsu, and Osaka Metro connections

• Many 3LDK+ homes under ¥20 million

• Good supply of move-in-ready condos

Higashi-Osaka is ideal for people commuting into Namba, Umeda, or Kyoto.

Kishiwada & Izumi (岸和田・和泉市)

Located in southern Osaka Prefecture, these cities offer some of the best prices for larger homes.

Why buyers choose this area:

• Safe, suburban residential communities

• Newer 3–4LDK houses under ¥25 million

• Quick access to Kansai Airport

• Perfect for families needing more space

Great for buyers who want affordability with suburban comfort.

Takatsuki City (高槻市)

A hidden gem between Osaka and Kyoto, offering surprisingly good value.

Key advantages:

• JR Kyoto Line access (10–15 mins to Osaka or Kyoto)

• Safe neighborhoods and many modern condos

• Strong rental demand and growing international interest

Takatsuki’s location makes it one of Kansai’s smartest affordable property choices.

Affordable Areas in Kyoto Prefecture

While Kyoto City itself is expensive, Kyoto Prefecture has multiple affordable towns just outside the center.

Kameoka City (亀岡市)

Only one train stop from Kyoto City, Kameoka provides excellent value while maintaining a relaxed lifestyle.

Benefits:

• Houses under ¥20–25 million

• JR access to Kyoto Station in 20–30 minutes

• Larger land sizes and quiet residential zones

• Good for families, retirees, and buyers wanting space

Great for those who want Kyoto convenience without Kyoto prices.

Uji City (宇治市)

Uji offers a balanced lifestyle with culture, affordability, and accessibility.

Why Uji stands out:

• Condos and houses cheaper than Kyoto City

• JR Nara Line access to both Osaka and Kyoto

• New developments and many renovated homes

• Family-friendly environment

A great mix of traditional charm and practical living.

Fukuchiyama & Ayabe (福知山・綾部市)

Northern Kyoto Prefecture offers the lowest home prices in the region.

Advantages:

• Extremely affordable detached houses

• Spacious properties for remote workers

• Scenic countryside environment

• Suitable for second homes or holiday homes

Ideal for buyers prioritizing space and quiet over commute distance.

Affordable Areas in Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo continues to be one of the strongest prefectures for affordability and lifestyle.

Sanda City (三田市)

Sanda combines nature, affordability, and excellent access to Kobe and Osaka.

Highlights:

• Spacious homes at much lower prices than central areas

• Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods

• JR access to Kobe and Osaka

• Many homes with modern layouts

A popular choice for families and anyone wanting more land.

Himeji City (姫路市)

Affordable, well-connected, and full of urban conveniences.

Why Himeji is appealing:

• Shinkansen station with fast travel to Osaka and Kobe

• Condos and homes well below Kansai averages

• Clean, organized city layout

• Strong long-term demand

Ideal for buyers wanting affordability plus transportation convenience.

Affordable Areas in Nara, Wakayama & Shiga Prefectures

These prefectures consistently offer some of the best home prices in Kansai.

Nara City & Ikoma (奈良市・生駒市)

Why buyers choose Nara:

• Larger homes for lower prices

• Direct access to Osaka Namba and Tennoji

• Quiet residential living

• Ideal for families or retirees

Ikoma is especially popular for its hillside neighborhoods and beautiful views.

Wakayama City (和歌山市)

One of the cheapest places to buy a home in Kansai.

Benefits:

• Very low property prices compared to Osaka

• Homes with large lots and coastal access

• Quick train access to Namba

• Perfect for people wanting a peaceful environment

Great for families, nature lovers, or second-home buyers.

Otsu & Kusatsu (大津市・草津市) – Shiga Prefecture

Affordable, modern, and extremely convenient to Kyoto.

Why Shiga is growing fast:

• Many newer builds under ¥30 million

• 10–15 minutes to Kyoto Station

• Scenic lake views and green spaces

• Stable long-term demand

A strong investment choice for buyers priced out of Kyoto City.

Why Kansai Is One of Japan’s Best Regions for Affordable Home Buying

Across all prefectures, the Kansai region stands out for affordability and long-term value.

Key advantages:

• Lower prices than Kanto

• Excellent transportation networks

• Many family-friendly suburban cities

• Strong rental markets

• Good mix of modern and traditional homes

• Increasing foreign buyer interest

The region continues to offer some of the most affordable areas in Kansai for home buyers, making it ideal for first-time buyers, families, and investors.

Choosing the Right Affordable Area in Kansai

When comparing these cities, consider:

• Commute requirements

• House vs. condo preferences

• Zoning rules (important for Airbnb/minpaku)

• Renovation needs

• Land ownership

• Access to supermarkets, schools, and hospitals

With so many diverse options, Kansai offers something for every type of buyer.

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About Omoroi Osaka

Omoroi Osaka is your trusted English-speaking partner for buying, selling, and managing real estate across Osaka and the entire Kansai region. We specialize in helping international clients navigate the Japanese property market with confidence — offering guidance, translation, area insights, and support through every stage of the process.

Whether you’re searching for a home, investment property, vacation house, or long-term rental opportunity, we connect you with reliable agents, renovation teams, legal professionals, and property management services. From understanding neighborhoods to reviewing listings and assisting with paperwork, our goal is to make real estate in Japan simple, transparent, and stress-free for foreign buyers.

If you’re interested in purchasing property in Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Shiga, or Wakayama — or need support managing your home or investment — feel free to reach out to us anytime. We’re here to help you find the perfect property and guide you every step of the way.