When searching for a new place to live, one of the most common questions people ask is: How many square feet in a one bedroom apartment? Whether you’re renting your first apartment, downsizing, relocating, or investing in real estate, understanding apartment size can help you choose the right living space.
The size of a one bedroom apartment can vary significantly depending on the location, building type, and floor plan. However, most one bedroom apartments typically range between 500 and 900 square feet, with the average size falling between 700 and 800 square feet.
In this guide, you’ll learn about average apartment sizes, common layouts, room dimensions, factors that affect square footage, and tips for determining how much space you really need.
Understanding One Bedroom Apartment Size
A one bedroom apartment is a residential unit that includes a separate bedroom in addition to the main living space. Unlike a studio apartment, the bedroom is enclosed and separated from the living room and kitchen.
Most one bedroom apartments include:
- One bedroom
- Living room
- Kitchen or kitchenette
- Bathroom
- Closets and storage areas
The total square footage includes all interior living space but generally excludes shared hallways, outdoor patios, balconies, and common areas.
How Many Square Feet in a One Bedroom Apartment on Average?
The average one bedroom apartment size depends largely on the city and housing market. Urban apartments tend to be smaller due to higher land costs, while suburban and rural apartments often offer more space.
Here is a general breakdown:
| Apartment Type | Average Size |
|---|---|
| Micro Apartment | 400–500 sq ft |
| Small One Bedroom | 500–650 sq ft |
| Standard One Bedroom | 650–850 sq ft |
| Large One Bedroom | 850–1,100 sq ft |
| Luxury One Bedroom | 1,100+ sq ft |
For most renters, a one bedroom apartment between 700 and 800 square feet provides a comfortable balance between affordability and livability.
One Bedroom Apartment Size Chart
The following chart shows common apartment size categories.
| Category | Square Footage |
|---|---|
| Compact | 400–550 sq ft |
| Small | 550–700 sq ft |
| Standard | 700–850 sq ft |
| Spacious | 850–1,100 sq ft |
| Luxury | 1,100+ sq ft |
While square footage is important, layout and room design can greatly affect how spacious an apartment feels.
Factors That Affect Apartment Square Footage
Several factors influence the size of a one bedroom apartment.
Location
Location is often the biggest factor affecting apartment size.
In major metropolitan areas, apartments tend to be smaller because land and construction costs are higher. In suburban and rural areas, developers can offer larger units at lower prices.
For example, a 600-square-foot apartment in a city center may cost more than a 900-square-foot apartment in a suburban neighborhood.
Building Age
Older apartment buildings often feature:
- Larger rooms
- Higher ceilings
- More storage space
- Traditional layouts
Newer developments may prioritize efficiency and modern design, resulting in smaller but more functional floor plans.
Floor Plan Design
An efficient layout can make a smaller apartment feel much larger.
Features that improve space utilization include:
- Open-concept living areas
- Combined dining and living rooms
- Minimal hallway space
- Large windows
- Built-in storage
Luxury Features
Luxury apartments typically offer more square footage because they include additional amenities such as:
- Walk-in closets
- Home office areas
- Large kitchens
- Oversized bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
These features increase both comfort and usable living space.
Typical Room Dimensions in a One Bedroom Apartment
Understanding room dimensions helps you evaluate whether an apartment will meet your needs.
Bedroom
Most bedrooms range between:
| Bedroom Type | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Small | 10 × 10 ft |
| Standard | 11 × 12 ft |
| Large | 12 × 14 ft |
A typical bedroom occupies approximately 100 to 170 square feet.
Living Room
Living rooms generally range from:
- 180 to 300 square feet
This area usually accommodates:
- Sofa
- Coffee table
- Television
- Entertainment center
Kitchen
Kitchens typically range from:
- 70 to 150 square feet
Open-concept kitchens often feel larger because they blend with the living area.
Bathroom
Bathrooms generally occupy:
- 35 to 80 square feet
Luxury apartments may feature significantly larger bathrooms.
Small vs Large One Bedroom Apartments
Not all one bedroom apartments provide the same living experience.
| Feature | Small Apartment | Large Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 500–650 sq ft | 850–1,100+ sq ft |
| Storage | Limited | More storage |
| Furniture Options | Fewer choices | Greater flexibility |
| Home Office Space | Limited | Often available |
| Guest Accommodation | Less comfortable | More comfortable |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Choosing the right size depends on your budget, lifestyle, and space requirements.
Is a One Bedroom Apartment Big Enough?
For many people, a one bedroom apartment provides plenty of space.
A one bedroom apartment is often ideal for:
- Single professionals
- Students
- Couples
- Remote workers
- Retirees
However, your ideal apartment size depends on factors such as:
- Number of occupants
- Work-from-home needs
- Storage requirements
- Furniture size
- Lifestyle preferences
Someone who spends little time at home may find 600 square feet sufficient, while a remote worker may prefer 850 square feet or more.
How to Measure Apartment Square Footage
If square footage information is unavailable, you can estimate it yourself.
Step 1: Measure Each Room
Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of every room.
Step 2: Calculate Room Area
Multiply the room’s length by its width.
Formula:
Square Feet = Length × Width
Example:
12 feet × 10 feet = 120 square feet
Step 3: Add All Room Measurements
Add together the square footage of:
- Bedroom
- Living room
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Hallways
- Closets
The total provides an estimate of the apartment’s square footage.
Real-World Examples of One Bedroom Apartment Sizes
Example 1: Compact Urban Apartment
- Bedroom: 110 sq ft
- Living room: 180 sq ft
- Kitchen: 80 sq ft
- Bathroom: 40 sq ft
- Storage and hallway: 60 sq ft
Total: 470 sq ft
Example 2: Standard Apartment
- Bedroom: 140 sq ft
- Living room: 250 sq ft
- Kitchen: 120 sq ft
- Bathroom: 60 sq ft
- Storage and hallway: 130 sq ft
Total: 700 sq ft
Example 3: Large Luxury Apartment
- Bedroom: 200 sq ft
- Living room: 350 sq ft
- Kitchen: 180 sq ft
- Bathroom: 100 sq ft
- Storage and hallway: 220 sq ft
Total: 1,050 sq ft
These examples demonstrate how apartments can vary greatly while still being classified as one bedroom units.
Common Mistakes When Evaluating Apartment Size
Many renters focus only on square footage and overlook other important factors.
Common mistakes include:
- Ignoring the floor plan
- Forgetting to measure furniture
- Overlooking storage space
- Not considering ceiling height
- Assuming all square footage is equally usable
- Focusing only on the number of rooms
A well-designed 650-square-foot apartment can feel larger than a poorly designed 800-square-foot apartment.
Tips for Maximizing Space in a One Bedroom Apartment
Even a small apartment can feel spacious with the right approach.
Use Multi-Functional Furniture
Consider:
- Storage beds
- Sleeper sofas
- Foldable tables
- Expandable dining sets
Take Advantage of Vertical Space
Install:
- Floating shelves
- Tall cabinets
- Wall organizers
Declutter Regularly
Keeping unnecessary items to a minimum helps maximize available living space.
Increase Natural Light
Natural light creates the illusion of a larger room and improves overall comfort.
Improve Storage Organization
Use:
- Under-bed storage containers
- Closet organizers
- Stackable bins
- Hanging storage systems
These simple strategies can significantly improve the functionality of a smaller apartment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many square feet is a typical one bedroom apartment?
Most one bedroom apartments range from 500 to 900 square feet, with an average size of approximately 700 to 800 square feet.
Is 600 square feet enough for a one bedroom apartment?
Yes. A 600-square-foot apartment is generally comfortable for one person and can also work for a couple with efficient use of space.
What is considered a large one bedroom apartment?
A one bedroom apartment larger than 850 square feet is generally considered spacious, while apartments exceeding 1,100 square feet are often classified as luxury units.
Is a one bedroom apartment bigger than a studio?
Yes. A one bedroom apartment includes a separate bedroom, whereas a studio combines sleeping and living areas into one open space.
How do I know if an apartment is the right size?
Consider your furniture, storage needs, daily activities, and whether you work from home. The best apartment size is one that comfortably supports your lifestyle.
Conclusion
So, how many square feet in a one bedroom apartment? In most cases, the answer ranges between 500 and 900 square feet, with the average apartment measuring around 700 to 800 square feet. The ideal size depends on your budget, location, and lifestyle needs.
When evaluating apartments, remember that square footage is only part of the equation. Layout efficiency, storage options, room dimensions, and natural light all play important roles in determining how comfortable a space feels. By understanding average apartment sizes and comparing your personal requirements, you can confidently choose a one bedroom apartment that offers the right balance of comfort, functionality, and value.
