Studio vs. 1-Bedroom Apartment: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment comes down to your individual needs, lifestyle, and priorities. Studio apartments offer an open-concept layout where your living, sleeping, and kitchen areas share one space, ideal for minimalists or those on a tighter budget. 

One-bedroom apartments, on the other hand, provide more privacy and separation between living and sleeping areas, often making them a better fit for those who need distinct spaces to relax, work, or entertain.

In this article, we’ll compare the two rental options, dive into key differences, and help you determine which might best suit what you’re looking for. 

Key differences between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment

Layout and space

A studio apartment is typically one open-concept space that merges the living, bedroom, and kitchen areas all into one room, with the bathroom being the only separate enclosed space. This setup is great for a minimalist lifestyle where everything is in sight and for people who don’t need a lot of space. 

On the other hand, a one-bedroom apartment offers much more defined spaces. It includes a separate bedroom set apart from the living area and kitchen, which provides better separation of living and sleeping spaces. This makes it a good choice for those who need a bit more space or prefer their privacy. 

Privacy levels

Privacy is often one of the biggest factors when choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment. With a studio, your bed and area are all in the same room, meaning your privacy is limited, especially if you have guests coming around. There’s no separate bedroom to retreat to, which could be an issue if you plan to host frequently. 

However, a one-bedroom apartment offers a bit more privacy, as you can close the door to the bedroom when guests are over, creating designated areas for relaxing and socializing. This makes it easier to have a more balanced home life, especially if you’re sharing the space with another person.

Size

Size is another of the key differences that should be considered when making a decision between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment. Studios are usually smaller than one-bedroom apartments, due to their open floor plan. This makes them a great option for anyone wanting to downsize or who needs less space to maintain, but it might feel cramped. In this sense, studios are great for those who travel often or only need their space for sleeping, eating, and relaxing in a single compact area. 

One-bedroom apartments, on the other hand, often start out at around 600 square feet, which means more space for furniture, storage, and the ability to have different areas for relaxing, working, and sleeping. Plus, if you have a lot of personal items, like books, electronics, or collectibles, the extra space might be more worth it to you.

Cost to furnish

Since studio apartments are smaller, they tend to require less furniture. You might get away with just a bed, a small dining table, and a chair or two. That could make it a much more appealing option for the budget-conscious or those just starting out, as it will likely be cheaper than a larger one-bedroom apartment. 

To contrast that, one-bedroom apartments typically require more furniture to fill in the extra rooms and space, such as a larger sofa, coffee tables, or dedicated workspaces. With this extra furniture comes a higher initial investment in decor and household items. However, the added space does give you more freedom in terms of design and functionality.

Lifestyle fit

Your lifestyle is going to greatly influence whether a studio or a one-bedroom apartment is the better fit for you. If you’re someone who likes to spend most of their time outside of the apartment, doesn't need a lot of space, and prefers a minimalist lifestyle, a studio might be a better choice. 

However, if you work from home or enjoy hosting guests, a one-bedroom is probably the better option. With a designated living area, separate bedroom, and extra room for storage, it allows for more flexibility and functionality. It also provides more privacy and space for couples or roommates who need zones within the home. 

Are studio apartments cheaper than one-bedroom apartments?

When comparing studios versus one-bedroom apartments, cost is another factor to consider. On average, studio apartments are generally less expensive than one-bedrooms, and here’s why: 

• Lower rent costs: Studio apartments can be 20-30% cheaper than one-bedroom apartments in the same area, making them an attractive option for anyone on a budget.
• Reduced utility expenses: Studios are smaller, meaning you’ll often find yourself spending less on utilities like heating, cooling, and electricity, making it a good way to save money if you want to minimize your expenses. 
• Fewer furniture needs: Furnishing a studio versus a one-bedroom requires fewer pieces of furniture, making it a more affordable option. 

Studio vs. 1-bedroom apartment cost in the top 10 cities

If you want to better understand your options, Zillow’s Rent Affordability Calculator can help you determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend on rent each month.

Should I rent a studio or a one-bedroom apartment? 

Choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment comes down to three factors: your budget, your lifestyle, and your future plans. While it’s true that a studio might save you more money from the get-go, it’s still important to consider your lifestyle needs. For example, if you work remotely and need a dedicated workspace, or if you have regular visitors, the additional space might be worth the higher cost.

Budget

If you’re on a tight budget or just want to minimize costs, a studio is a great way to save on rent and utilities. However, if your budget allows for a bit more flexibility, a one-bedroom apartment can provide additional space, comfort, and privacy, which might be worth the extra cost. You’ll want to step back, consider how much rent you can afford, and let that influence your decision. 

Lifestyle

How much time do you spend at home, and what do you need from your space? If you’re always out and about and only need a small, functional space to eat and sleep, a studio could work well for you. However, if you need separate areas for work, relaxing, and socializing, a one-bedroom apartment has more flexibility and functionality. 

Future plans

Are you planning on living with a partner or getting a pet soon? If so, a one-bedroom apartment may be better suited for your (and their) needs. For solo living, however, a studio is often the more cost-effective and low-maintenance option. If you’re specifically looking for a pet-friendly rental, you may want to explore one-bedroom options for the extra space.

Finding the perfect apartment for you

When it comes right down to it, choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment all depends on you and what fits your lifestyle, budget, and future needs. Both have their own perks, and the right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences. 

To make your search easier, check out Zillow’s Rental Search Center, where you can easily browse and compare available rentals in your area. Whether you’re looking for simplicity and cost-effectiveness or more space and privacy, there’s an apartment style that will fit your needs.