Getting an apartment, especially in bigger cities, can be pretty complicated whether you are looking for one for the first time or have prior experience on the subject. If it’s just you, your boyfriend, or even a roommate, you’re most likely looking for a studio or 1-bedroom apartment.
Although these two picks have a lot in common, they still have significant differences. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, but it can be challenging for first-time renters to distinguish them.
So, if you keep asking yourself: what size apartment should I get, and want to get informed before making the actual decision, please read the following text.
The Main Difference
The crucial difference between a 1-bedroom and studio apartment is that a 1-bedroom has a separate bedroom that is entirely distinct and separated from the kitchen and the living room. A studio apartment usually features everything in a single room with a completely separated bathroom.
A Studio Apartment
As we mentioned earlier, a studio apartment has a single room that features the living area, kitchen area, and bedroom in the same space, meaning there are no walls that divide these areas. However, the bathroom is separated. A studio apartment works on a simple concept- the single large room functions as a living area.
When it comes to comparing studio apartments and 1-bedroom apartments, studious are very concise and comfortable. However, for some, the sleeping area is in the same space as the kitchen can be pretty unappealing because it lacks privacy, rooms, and space.
If you plan on frequently cooking, preparing meals will cause a lot of unpleasant smells because your bedroom is in the same area.
Furthermore, smokers will experience the same problem.
However, some significantly bigger cities are very pricey, and the same goes for apartments. If you are a single renter or even plan on living with your boyfriend in a bigger city, renting a studio apartment might be the right choice, especially for shorter periods.
The Price of Studio Apartments
So, how much does it cost to rent a studio apartment?
The average price of a studio apartment is about $1200, but the price can severely vary depending on the state and the city you want to live in.
According to various research, the most expensive studio apartments are located in Dublin, California, at more than $2700 a month. The most affordable ones go for $424 a month and are located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
A 1-Bedroom Apartment
As the name says, a 1-bedroom apartment has a separate bedroom from the living area. Additionally, every room, including the bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom, is entirely separated by walls. However, depending on the size of the apartment, the dining or living room might be combined with the kitchen (open floor concept), while bigger apartments have a separate kitchen. Generally, 1-bedroom apartments are usually way more spacious than studio apartments.
The Price of 1-Bedroom Apartments
How much does it cost to rent a 1-bedroom apartment?
The average price of a 1-bedroom apartment costs around $1250, while the prices vary depending on the precise size and location. According to different data, the most expensive 1-bedroom apartment goes for $3500 and is located in Marina del Ray, California. In contrast, the cheapest one goes for $490 a month and is located in Odessa, Texas.
The Price Difference
1-bedroom apartments are 5 percent more expensive than studio apartments, and it’s completely up to you to decide if the difference is worth it, in any case.
Austin, Texas
An average studio apartment will cost you $1227, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $1396.
Boston, Massachusetts
An average studio apartment will cost you $2529, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $2972.
Chicago, Illinois
An average studio apartment will cost you $1463, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $1800.
Los Angeles, California
An average studio apartment will cost you $1942, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $2547.
NYC, New York
An average studio apartment will cost you $3000, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $3429.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
An average studio apartment will cost you $1455, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $1786.
San Francisco, California
An average studio apartment will cost you $2128, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $2984.
Seattle, Washington
An average studio apartment will cost you $1508, while the price of an average 1-bedroom apartment is $2156.
Additional Differences
Occupancy
If you are moving in with someone else, it’s best to go for a one-bedroom apartment. It offers more space, comfort, and storage since studios are not suited for more than one person.
However, renting a studio can save you a pretty decent amount of money if you are on a really tight budget.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle is a truly important factor meaning it’s natural you may require an extra room. If you like inviting friends over often, studios don’t have much space, and the apartment can get overcrowded, which is fine as long as you’re okay with that. Additionally, lifestyles that include a variety of hobbies, especially if you are into collectibles and hold a pretty large amount of belongings, should also go for a one-bedroom apartment.
Working From Home
If you are a freelancer or work remotely, the good thing is you can work from both studio and one-bedroom apartments. However, if it’s important to you to separate the working, living, sleeping, and dining areas, we recommend avoiding studio apartments.
Location
For some, while looking for an apartment, the size is the last thing on the list. Studios are way easier to find in very urban and trendy areas while being highly affordable.
For others, it’s way more important to find a spacious apartment, where the location isn’t crucial.
In any case, while deciding and going thru rental listings Brooklyn, choose whether you’ll sacrifice some space for a more affordable apartment. Keep in mind that you can get a one-bedroom apartment for the same price but at a more distant location. In any case, best of luck while hunting.