In recent years, demand for soundproof room rentals in areas surrounding music universities and music schools has grown rapidly. Here’s an analysis of these market trends, underlying causes, and future prospects.
Current State of the Soundproof Rental Market#
Market Size Trends#
Over the past five years, the soundproof rental market has recorded average annual growth of approximately 8～12%.
| Fiscal Year | Market Size | Year-on-Year Change | Primary Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Approx. ¥5 billion | ー | Work-from-home shift due to COVID-19 |
| 2021 | Approx. ¥5.5 billion | +10% | Enhanced remote environments |
| 2022 | Approx. ¥6.2 billion | +12% | Establishment of streaming culture |
| 2023 | Approx. ¥7 billion | +13% | Increased music university enrollment |
| 2024 | Approx. ¥7.9 billion | +12% | Accelerated regional expansion |
Changes in Soundproof Rental User Demographics#
While previously “professional musicians” were the primary user group, the user base has now expanded significantly.
Past (Around 2015)
- Music professionals and artists: 50%
- Music school students: 30%
- Others: 20%
Present (2024)
- Content creators: 35%
- Music school students: 30%
- Music professionals: 20%
- Hobbyists and others: 15%
The increase in content creator usage is particularly notable.
Specific Background for Increased Demand Around Schools and Universities#
1. Increased Enrollment at Music Higher Education Institutions#
Over the past decade, enrollment capacity at music universities and music schools nationwide has increased by approximately 15～20%.
Trends at Major Music Education Institutions
| Region | Representative Institution | Enrollment Change | Surrounding Rental Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Toho Gakuen, Musashino Music University | +15% | ★★★★★ |
| Kansai | Kyoto City Arts and Music University, Osaka Music University | +12% | ★★★★☆ |
| Fukuoka | Fukuoka University of Education Music Department | +8% | ★★★☆☆ |
| Nagoya | Nagoya University of Music | +18% | ★★★★☆ |
Soundproof Rental Usage Among Music Students
- Approximately 60% of first-year music university students use soundproof rentals
- Previously (2015): approximately 35%
2. Establishment of Home Streaming Culture#
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, music streaming and online performance demand became established.
Streaming Market Data
- YouTube music uploads: Approximately 5 million per year
- TikTok music and instrument content views: Over 200 million per month
- Instagram music-related posts: Approximately 30 million
This background has led to rapid growth in individual creators needing soundproof environments.
3. Widespread Adoption of Remote Lessons and Online Concerts#
Music education institutions’ full implementation of online lessons has increased the need for soundproof environments.
Online Adaptation Status of Music Schools
| Adaptation Level | 2020 | 2024 | Increase Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full adaptation | 15% | 65% | +50% |
| Partial adaptation | 30% | 25% | -5% |
| No adaptation | 55% | 10% | -45% |
Student-side soundproof environments are crucial for online lesson quality.
4. Regional Expansion Beyond Tokyo Concentration#
Expansion from Tokyo-centric concentration to nationwide deployment is underway.
Soundproof Rental Facility Growth by City
| City | 2019 | 2024 | Facilities Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 250 | 320 | +70 |
| Osaka | 80 | 130 | +50 |
| Nagoya | 45 | 75 | +30 |
| Fukuoka | 25 | 55 | +30 |
| Sapporo | 15 | 35 | +20 |
Growth in core cities like Nagoya and Fukuoka is particularly notable.
Characteristics of Soundproof Rentals Around Schools and Universities#
Area Selection Features#
Soundproof rentals concentrate in areas with the following characteristics:
Tokyo Example: Takadanobaba/Shin-Okubo Area
- Within commuting range to Toho Gakuen and Musashino Music University
- High daytime population makes soundproof needs well-understood
- Number of rental facilities: Approximately 80 (2024)
Osaka Example: Nishi-Yodogawa/Fukushima Area
- Good access to Osaka Music University and Osaka University of Education
- Number of rental facilities: Approximately 35 (2024)
Pricing Characteristics#
Soundproof rentals around schools and universities show large demand fluctuations based on location.
Time-Slot Usage Rates and Price Correlation
| Time Slot | Weekday Usage | Weekend Usage | Monthly Estimate Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning (6～9am) | 25% | 40% | Lower price tendency |
| Afternoon (9am～5pm) | 70% | 60% | Standard to higher |
| Evening (5pm～9pm) | 85% | 80% | Highest prices |
| Late night (9pm～) | 40% | 20% | Lower price tendency |
Facilities in areas with concentrated usage demand aligned with student schedules tend to charge higher rates.
Soundproof Rental Business Operator Movements#
Major Business Entry and Expansion#
While previously dominated by small regional operators, major real estate groups are accelerating entry.
Major Entering Companies
- Daiwa House: Strengthening soundproof rental operations
- Leopalace21: Expanding musician-focused plans
- Able: Launching student-oriented soundproof properties
Business Model Diversification#
Traditional Model (Hourly rentals)
- Pricing based on usage hours
- Low initial investment
New Model (Fixed monthly rentals)
- Fixed monthly rates
- Budget-friendly for student needs
Emerging Model (Shared soundproof spaces)
- Sharing-type soundproof rooms
- Usage time divided among multiple users
Future Market Outlook#
2025～2030 Projections#
The soundproof rental market is expected to continue growing.
Market Size Projections
- 2025: Approx. ¥9 billion (+14%)
- 2027: Approx. ¥11.5 billion (annual rate +12%)
- 2030: Approx. ¥16 billion (annual rate +11%)
Regional Growth Projections#
| Region | 2024 | 2030 Projection | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | ¥3.5 billion | ¥5.2 billion | +48% |
| Kansai | ¥1.5 billion | ¥2.5 billion | +67% |
| Chubu | ¥0.8 billion | ¥1.5 billion | +88% |
| Northern Japan | ¥0.5 billion | ¥1.2 billion | +140% |
| Other | ¥1.6 billion | ¥5.6 billion | +250% |
Regional areas are expected to show particularly high growth rates.
Service Evolution#
Anticipated New Services
Digital-Integrated Facilities
- Online streaming support (complete with lighting and cameras)
- Home recording equipment rentals
Customization Services
- Optimal soundproofing design per instrument
- Dedicated vocal, drum, and guitar rooms
Subscription-Style Services
- Access multiple facilities for fixed monthly fee
- Expanded student discounts and group rates
Hybrid Models
- Soundproof rental + online streaming services
- Combined with one-on-one lessons
Summary: The Future of the Soundproof Rental Market#
Soundproof rental market growth extends beyond real estate business expansion; it’s deeply connected to the democratization of musical culture.
Increased demand around schools and universities suggests:
- Improved Music Education Access: More people can pursue serious musical study
- Established Streaming Culture: Music expression opportunities expand for both professionals and amateurs
- Reduced Regional Disparities: High-quality practice environments become accessible nationwide
The soundproof rental market will continue growing while adapting to technological advances and diverse user needs.