When looking for a great apartment, deciding between a studio and a 1-bedroom apartment may seem like a tough decision. Understanding the differences can help you weigh your options. Factors such as budget, lifestyle and personal preferences will also help you make the best decision for yourself.

Here, we break down the key differences between a studio vs. a 1-bedroom apartment, as well as offer advice on other decision-making considerations. Whether you prioritize space or value, we’ll give you helpful insights for your housing decision.

Studio vs. 1-Bedroom: Key Differences

The key differentiator between studio and 1-bedroom apartments is the presence of a separate bedroom. In 1-bedrooms, the bedroom area is separated from the rest of the living space, while studios are one open-space room. Essentially, a 1-bedroom apartment has more walls and distinction between spaces. 

What is a Studio Apartment?

A studio is a single-room living space that excludes a separate bedroom. This type of apartment combines the living room, bedroom and kitchen into one open space. Don’t worry — the bathroom is still privately blocked off from the rest of the space. Their simplicity and affordability make them an attractive choice for those prioritizing location and budget over larger living spaces.

What’s in a Studio Apartment?

Most studios consist of a centralized living space for all of your living needs. The absence of distinct rooms creates a sense of openness, making studios an attractive option for those who value simplicity and efficiency. Standard features include a combined sleeping and living area, a kitchen or kitchenette area and a separate bathroom.

While studios promote a minimalist lifestyle and often come at a more affordable price, make sure you’re aware of some of the potential drawbacks. If you live with someone else, privacy will be limited and storage space may require creative solutions. However, for those who prefer convenience and cost-effectiveness, a studio apartment can offer a cozy and functional living arrangement that suits your needs.

What is a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

A 1-bedroom apartment features a distinct bedroom separated from the main living space, with walls and a door to close it off. This layout provides a clear division of living areas for increased privacy and organization.

What’s in a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

Inside a typical 1-bedroom apartment, you’ll find a dedicated bedroom, a living room, a kitchen and a bathroom. The bedroom remains a private space, separate from the communal living and entertaining space.

This design caters to individuals who prioritize personal space, especially if you live with someone else. If you value a clear distinction between your sleeping area and common living areas, a 1-bedroom apartment might be the ideal choice for your housing needs.

Why Choose a Studio Apartment?

Understanding the pros and cons of studio living can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and needs. It’s important to have a balanced perspective when deciding, so we’ve gathered the pros and cons of living in a studio apartment for you to consider.

Pros of a Studio Apartment

  • Price. Rent and utilities for a studio apartment will typically be less expensive, allowing you to save money.
  • Less space to fill. You don’t need a lot of furniture to fill up the amount of space.
  • Easier to clean. With a smaller overall footprint and less furniture, a studio is more straightforward to clean.

Cons of a Studio Apartment

  • Lack of privacy. If you live with someone else — a significant other or a roommate — there’s little to no space for privacy.
  • You have to be tidy. Your entire life happens in one room: eat, sleep, unwind and entertain. This means that even the slightest bit of clutter will stand out.
  • You have a lot of stuff. If you have a lot of belongings you’re unwilling to part with, a studio might not fit them all.

Why Choose a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

Living in a 1-bedroom apartment also has its own unique pros and cons to consider. 

Pros of a 1-Bedroom Apartment

  • Extra space. You have more space to work with, including room for a designated workspace if you need it or more space for entertaining.
  • Privacy. You and your roommate or significant other can simply go to another room and close the door when needed.
  • More storage. There’s usually an extra closet — one in the main area and one in the bedroom — you can use to store your stuff.

Cons of a 1-Bedroom Apartment

  • Price. Rent and utilities will probably be more expensive than a studio.
  • More space to fill. You might need more furniture to keep your apartment from looking bare or empty.
  • Cleaning. A bigger apartment means more areas need cleaning.

young student welcoming us into his apartment

Should I Get a Studio or 1-Bedroom Apartment?

Choosing between a studio and a 1-bedroom apartment depends on your lifestyle, budget and space needs. Each option offers advantages and challenges, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each to make an informed decision.

Budget and Affordability 

When comparing studio apartments to 1-bedrooms, think about your budget — now and for the following year. Studios usually present a more affordable option due to their compact size and open layout. Be honest about your finances and what you can afford as you weigh the cost savings of a studio against the additional space in a 1-bedroom apartment.

Space Requirements and Lifestyle 

Think about your lifestyle and space requirements before making a decision. If you value privacy and distinct living areas, a 1-bedroom apartment may better suit your lifestyle. Alternatively, if you live with someone else, a 1-bedroom is usually the better way to go to maintain individual spaces. 

Consider your daily routines and preferences: how often do you need personal space? Do you work from home? How often do you entertain or host overnight guests? Analyze how each option aligns with your preferred lifestyle.

Southern Management Has the Apartment You Need

With flexible short-term leasing options, Southern Management allows residents to select the lease term and apartment floor plan that’s right for them. If you find a studio too tight or no longer need a one-bedroom apartment, you can always ask us about switching to a different floor plan in the same community when your lease is up.

With over 25,000 apartments across Maryland and Virginia, Southern Management offers beautiful spaces of all sizes. Take a virtual tour of our communities and talk to a property manager about a studio or a 1-bedroom.

Our team would be happy to discuss one-bedroom and studio availability, pricing, amenities and more. Browse our apartment communities today!