Choosing the right type of apartment is one of the most important decisions when moving to a new place or upgrading your living space. Among the many options available, two common types often compared are studio apartments and 1-bedroom apartments. At a glance, they may seem similar, especially to first-time renters or buyers, but they offer different lifestyles, price points, and living experiences.
What is a Studio Apartment?
A studio apartment is a one-room unit where the bedroom, kitchen, and living area are combined into a single open space, with only the bathroom being separate. That means your bed, kitchen, and living area are combined.
This type of apartment usually includes:
- An open floor plan
- A small kitchen (sometimes just a kitchenette)
- A separate bathroom
- Minimal walls or doors (except for the bathroom)
What is a 1 Bedroom Apartment?
A 1-bedroom apartment is a housing unit that includes a distinct bedroom, separate from the kitchen and living room. Unlike a studio, it provides added privacy by allowing you to close the door to the bedroom, creating clearly divided spaces.
Key features of a 1-bedroom apartment:
- A closed-off bedroom
- A dedicated living area
- A separate kitchen or open-plan kitchen
- One full bathroom
Layout and Space Differences
The main distinction between a studio and a 1-bedroom apartment is in their layout design. In a studio, there’s one open area that combines sleeping, cooking, and living. In a 1-bedroom, you get distinct rooms, which means more space for furniture, storage, and movement.
- Studio: One open room + bathroom
- 1 Bedroom: Separate bedroom + living area + kitchen + bathroom
If you value open living and simplicity, a studio might suit you. If you prefer privacy and separate spaces, a 1-bedroom is likely better.
Size Comparison
Size is another major factor. While square footage varies by location and building, here’s a general comparison:
- Studio apartment: 300 to 600 square feet
- 1-bedroom apartment: 600 to 1,000 square feet
The 1-bedroom apartment is nearly double in size, giving you more room for larger furniture and more comfortable living.
Privacy Level
Privacy is where the 1-bedroom wins clearly. You can shut the door to your bedroom, keep work or guests in the living room, and even separate sleep from your daily activities.
A studio offers little to no privacy since everything is in one space. If you plan to have guests over or work from home, this could be a challenge.
Cost and Affordability
Price is a major deciding factor for many people. In most cities, studio apartments are more affordable than 1-bedroom units. You pay less in rent, utilities, and sometimes even in furnishings (since you have less space to fill).
However, keep in mind:
- 1-bedroom apartments cost more but offer better privacy and functionality.
In high-rent cities like Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, this difference can be significant.
Utility Bills and Maintenance
Because studios are smaller, they generally consume less energy. Your electricity and gas bills will often be lower, especially if you use fewer appliances.
A 1-bedroom unit, while offering more comfort, will likely cost more in utilities and upkeep. Cleaning and maintenance also take more time and effort.
Furnishing and Decor
Furnishing a studio can be tricky but also offers an opportunity to be creative. You have to make the most of one room while keeping it uncluttered. Many studio residents use:
- Multipurpose furniture (like sofa beds)
- Foldable or wall-mounted tables
- Room dividers to create privacy zones
In contrast, a 1-bedroom apartment gives you more freedom in decorating. You can:
- Use different themes for each room
- Have a proper bed, sofa, and dining area
- Add more storage and decoration items
Lifestyle Suitability
So who should live in which type?
Studio Apartments Are Best For:
- Students who need an affordable, compact living space
- Young professionals who live alone and don’t spend much time at home
- Minimalists who prefer a simple lifestyle
- People on a tight budget or new renters
1 Bedroom Apartments Are Best For:
- Couples who want privacy
- Remote workers who need a separate workspace
- People with pets or guests
- Those planning long-term stays or families
Resale or Rental Value
When buying an apartment as an investment, the 1-bedroom typically has higher resale and rental value. It appeals to a broader audience including small families, couples, and professionals.
Studios may be easier to rent quickly, especially in student areas, but their value appreciation is usually lower.
Summary of Key Differences
FeatureStudio Apartment1 Bedroom Apartment
Size 300–600 sq. ft. 600–1,000 sq. ft.
Layout Single room + bathroom Separate bedroom, living room
Privacy Low High
Price More affordable More expensive
Best for Singles, students, minimalists Couples, remote workers, families
Utilities Lower Higher
Furnishing Compact & minimal More freedom & furniture space
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between a studio and a 1-bedroom apartment is important whether you’re renting for the first time or looking to invest in property. Each option has its strengths, depending on your lifestyle, budget, and space needs. If saving money and living light are your goals, a studio apartment is a practical and cozy solution. On the other hand, if privacy, comfort, and flexibility are your priorities, a 1-bedroom apartment will serve you better in the long run.
