When you are looking for small, budget-friendly apartments, it’s easy to get confused by all the different terminologies. For example, “efficiency apartments” and “studio apartments” – aren’t those the same thing? Well, no. Studio apartments and efficiency apartments are very similar, but there are some key differences between the two of them. Today, we are going to answer the question of, what is an efficiency apartment? To help you decide whether an efficiency apartment could work for you.

What is an Efficiency Apartment?

An efficiency apartment is a small apartment, usually between 300-500 square feet. The amenities are contained in a single room, where you can eat, sleep, cook, and clink beers with your friends. Generally, these apartments are well-suited for single folks.

Differences Between Efficiency Apartment and Studio Apartment

One of the most common questions asked by new renters is, “What’s the difference between a studio apartment and an efficiency apartment?” Both types of apartments are small living spaces with more or less the same structure.

But even though both the spaces are contained in one room, they have these key differences:

1. Kitchen

While both studio apartments and efficiency apartments have a main living area, their layouts are different. Studios have a full-sized kitchen in the main space, plus a bathroom in a separate room. On the other hand, efficiency apartments have a kitchenette (a smaller version of a kitchen). So, if you’re a born chef who likes to knock around in the kitchen, you might be better off in a studio!

2. Location

If you going to be renting an apartment in a highly desirable part of the city, then you should choose an efficiency apartment. Often, these apartments are closer to centralized locations.

3. Size

When we compare the size of efficiency apartments and studios, efficiency apartments are usually smaller. Both are under 500 square feet, but efficiency apartments can be as small as 300 square feet.

If you are planning on renting an apartment with a roommate or a partner, then neither of these apartments are suitable for you. Both efficiency apartments and studio apartments are small living spaces, and living with an extra person can make the space feel even more cramped.

4. Cost

Less space usually means an apartment will cost less. But this is not true in the case of efficiency apartments. They tend to be located in upscale urban areas, whereas studio apartments are located in more rundown part of town. Thus, efficiency apartments are generally more expensive to rent than studio apartments.

Pros And Cons Of Living In An Efficiency Apartment

Pros

Well, now that you are acquainted with both kinds of spaces, we’d like to draw your attention to the benefits of living in an efficiency apartment. There are lots of benefits to living in an efficiency apartment, don’t let the small space make you think otherwise. Take a look at just a couple of them here:

• It saves you money, so that you can invest a little more in your future.
• Cleaning your apartment is so much easier.
• You have access to multifamily apartment amenities like a swimming pool, gym, community clubhouse, etc. So, there’s no chance of missing out on any kind of fun!
• Easy access to the city’s hustle and bustle – and proximity to your favourite places, of course!
• Utilities will cost you less. A smaller home means less space to heat in the winter and cool in summer.

Cons

While there are various advantages to living in an efficiency apartment, there are also a few things you might have to compromise on:

• If you love to cook or invite your friends over for a low-key Sunday dinner, an efficiency apart will not be big enough for you. These apartments do not have a full-sized kitchen.
• Likewise, if you are someone who loves to hang out with your friends, family, or partner at home, an efficiency apartment will not offer you enough space.

When Do You Want An Efficiency Apartment?

Think about all the pros and cons of living in a small space like an efficiency apartment. Can you compromise on the square footage? What are your priorities when it comes to choosing an apartment?

If you’re single and/or not home a lot because of work, but you still want access to all the amenities, an efficiency apartment would be perfect for you. Likewise, if you live out of town but need somewhere to stay during the week because of your job, browse listings for efficiency apartments.

Where And How To Find Efficiency Apartments?

Most efficiency apartments can be found in cities, where unit sizes are typically smaller. If you are a new renter in an unfamiliar city, you may need some help in finding one. You could try:

• Looking online
• Hiring a real estate agent
• Searching for communities in your area
• Using a roomfinder app like Roomi

Related: Looking For An Apartment In New York? Here Are Some Hacks That Will Help You!

Roomi can help you find small living spaces more quickly and easily. Our app lets you filter by over 15+ preferences, including amenities. So, no matter what you need from your next home, we’ve got you covered. Sign up for free today to start looking for your perfect efficiency apartment!

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