You know you want a small apartment. The question is: do you spring for a studio or a one-bedroom unit? The two types of floor plans are more different than you might think—aside from the former being an open living space (consisting of one large living and sleeping area plus a bathroom) and the latter offering the privacy of a separate, enclosed bedroom (dream in peace…in a lone piece of your apartment).
Deciding between your choice of studio apartments and one-bedroom apartments will require weighing a number of factors. You’ll have to think about the overall square footage, price, the effects of your geography, and what kind of lifestyle you’re after.
Square Footage
Studio apartments typically average 500 to 600 square feet of living space (for reference, a two-car garage is about 400 square feet). One-bedroom apartments can vary widely in regard to square footage. However, one-bedroom apartments usually fall within an average range of 700 to 800 square feet (think two two-car garages).
Price
The norm is that you pay a higher price for more square footage. However, a lot of variables come into play when comparing the price of a studio apartment to the price of a one-bedroom apartment. Sometimes studios are more expensive than one-bedroom apartments because of upscale upgrades or because they are located in luxury apartment communities. Some spacious one-bedroom units are closer in price to two-bedroom units, especially if they offer a den or a study in addition to the bedroom.
Geography
Speaking of location, where your apartment is located has an effect on the price and size of the unit. If you’re looking for a studio apartment in a big city, where studios are often considered the more trendy choice, you’ll likely be looking at a higher rent price than many one-bedroom apartments in the same area. As they say: where there’s a demand, there’s increasing rent prices for small spaces. And: home is where the couch fits.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle is a huge factor in choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment. If you consider yourself an open book with a propensity for tidy spaces (like clean shelves), a studio could definitely be the choice for you. If you value your privacy and having a separate place just for sleeping, a one-bedroom apartment may be…bedder.
Living with more than just yourself—whether with a partner, pet, or roommate—is another reason to opt for the more spacious option (it’s usually the one-bedroom apartment over the studio, but there are outliers!). You’ll need more room for your roomie either way.
If you’re still undecided, or think you would be happy with either floor plan, be sure to check out both studio apartments and one-bedroom apartments in your desired area. You may find an unexpected deal, or several apartment communities that offer both apartment types—each with their own unique specials.
