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Survey on Cramped Living Spaces in Japan

A recent survey conducted by AreaLink, the operator of one of Japan’s largest rental storage room services, HelloStorage, has revealed that many people in their 20s to 60s feel that their homes are cramped. This study, which surveyed 500 individuals across the nation, sheds light on the reasons behind this sentiment and the increasing demand for external storage solutions.

Understanding the Cramped Feeling

The survey, held on November 27, 2025, explored the factors contributing to the feeling of cramped living spaces. Respondents pointed out that the primary reason for feeling that their homes are small is the increase in possessions, with 38.9% of participants citing this factor. Following closely was the sentiment of feeling cramped since the initial move into the home, at 20.8%, along with changes in family size or needs, particularly associated with children growing up, at 16.4%.

The urban landscape, particularly in metropolitan areas, has increasingly become associated with smaller living spaces. As lifestyles and work preferences diversify, there is a notable rise in the need for external storage, including rental trunk rooms.

Focus on Cost and Location in Home Selection

When asked about the priority factors during the selection of their current homes, the respondents indicated that cost was paramount, with 39.4% ranking housing expenses as the first priority. Proximity to the nearest station (36.8%) and easy access to workplaces or schools (32.0%) followed. In contrast, only 10.4% placed importance on the usability of storage space, highlighting that concerns regarding cost and location often overshadow immediate storage needs during the home selection process.

Increasing Possessions Leading to Cramped Spaces

Specific reasons for feeling cramped were examined, revealing that 44% of respondents felt that having too many items at home was the top reason. In close succession, 42.6% noted the lack of sufficient storage space as a contributing factor. Other issues such as poor movement flow within the living space were also considered, but they paled in comparison to the primary concerns regarding excessive belongings and inadequate storage.

External Storage Solutions Gaining Popularity

Looking toward the future, nearly 40% of respondents expressed interest in utilizing external storage options, such as trunk rooms, to alleviate space issues. Of those surveyed, 8.0% firmly indicated that they would definitely use such facilities, with an additional 31.6% stating that they would consider utilizing them if the opportunity arose. This underscores a growing recognition that external storage can help manage increasing personal belongings without compromising current living spaces.

Commentary from HelloStorage

A representative from HelloStorage commented on the findings, noting that while many prioritize cost and location when selecting a home, they struggle to manage the rising tide of belongings against limited storage. The reality of expanding living spaces or relocating to larger homes, however, is often not feasible. Thus, adopting external storage options can provide a practical solution—allowing individuals to create more spacious living environments by storing less frequently used items or seasonal belongings elsewhere.

Household items, from seasonal clothing to memorabilia, can be stored in trunk rooms, effectively enhancing living space while maintaining the current home’s design.

Conclusion

The insights from this survey not only highlight common frustrations regarding residential space but also point toward a shifting attitude toward solutions like HelloStorage's services. As living spaces in urban areas continue to shrink, these external storage options are becoming indispensable in fostering comfortable living environments that cater to evolving lifestyles and family dynamics.

About the Survey

• - Participants: 500 individuals aged 20 to 60 across Japan
• - Survey Date: November 27, 2025
• - Method: Online survey via Cross Marketing's QiQUMO

HelloStorage Overview

HelloStorage operates under AreaLink, offering a wide range of rental storage options across 2,810 locations as of November 2025, providing more than 123,000 units, marking the highest in the industry. The company is committed to catering to diverse storage needs, offering solutions from outdoor containers to indoor trunk rooms designed specifically for usability.