Recruit has announced the results of the "Preferred Living Areas Ranking 2024," revealing surprising outcomes where cities outside of Tokyo dominate the top spots. This survey targeted 9,335 men and women aged 20 to 49 living in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Let's dive into the details.

Yokohama Takes the Lead, Omiya Surges

Yokohama has claimed the top spot in the 2024 ranking, increasing its score significantly. Omiya follows in second place, pushing last year's second place, Kichijoji, down to third. This results in the top two spots being "Northern Omiya and Southern Yokohama," with Tokyo areas falling below third place.

Omiya's rise is notable. From ninth place in 2018, Omiya has steadily climbed the ranks, reaching second place in 2024. Meanwhile, Kichijoji, which maintained a steady position, has slipped to third. Ebisu, which was second in 2018, has held fourth place after being overtaken by Kichijoji and Omiya.

Shinagawa, which was fourth in 2018, dropped to 11th in 2023 but has re-entered the top 10. Overall, the top ranks are mostly consistent with regular appearances by familiar cities, shifting positions over time.

Changes from 11th to 25th Place

From 11th to 25th, cities like "Nagareyama Otakanomori," "Maihama," "Sakuragicho," and "Minato Mirai" have reached their highest positions, showing a shift in popularity towards suburban areas. Furthermore, within the top 50, new areas along lines like the Tsukuba Express have risen, while previously popular areas along the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line have declined.

The Secret to Yokohama's Strength

Yokohama not only maintained the top position but also increased its score. SUUMO's analysis attributes this to a significant increase in scores among "child-rearing households." Yokohama has enhanced its child-rearing support, offering free coupons for childcare services and free medical expenses for children up to junior high school without income limits.

Additionally, areas like "Sakuragicho" and "Minato Mirai" within Yokohama have also risen in the ranks. These areas have attracted company headquarters and research facilities, making them notable for work. New attractions like the music-specific arena "K Arena Yokohama" and "The Wharf House Yamashita Park" have also opened, increasing the city's appeal for leisure.

The Popularity Shift Between Omiya and Kichijoji

Omiya's ascent to second place while Kichijoji fell to third can be attributed to several factors. Kichijoji is known for its stylish streets and clean parks, appealing to women, child-rearing households, and those in their 40s. In contrast, Omiya is popular among men and younger generations in their 20s and 30s.

One key reason for Omiya's popularity is its "working" environment. It offers attractive workplaces and coworking spaces. Many companies have relocated from Tokyo, making office rents reasonable and reducing vacancy rates. Upcoming large office buildings further enhance its appeal as a workplace.

Another factor is the abundance of commercial facilities. Omiya has over 1,000 stores around the station, including seven large commercial facilities. The area also boasts cultural and recreational amenities like Hikawa Shrine and NACK5 Stadium Omiya.

Conclusion

The 2024 Preferred Living Areas Ranking sees Yokohama and Omiya taking the top two spots, pushing Tokyo areas below third place. Yokohama's strength lies in its child-rearing support and new leisure spots, while Omiya attracts with its working environment and commercial facilities. These factors are likely to keep these areas popular in the future.