Is Your 1-Bedroom Apartment a Suitable Size? The New 2023 Guidelines
One-bedroom apartments are an attractive option for many singles and couples. However, it's important to assess if your current or prospective rental provides adequate space for your lifestyle.
In 2023, the recommended minimum size for a functional one-bedroom apartment is 450 square feet. Anything smaller tends to fall into the studio apartment category. We've compiled the latest size guideline standards to help you evaluate if your one-bedroom layout truly meets your spatial needs.
Defining a True One-Bedroom Apartment
First, what constitutes a genuine one-bedroom apartment? At minimum, it should include:
- A separate bedroom with closet space
- A bathroom
- A kitchen or kitchenette
- A common living area
One-bedrooms may also feature amenities like in-unit laundry, a balcony, or designated dining space. The overall dimensions can range dramatically based on location and building age.
Average Size Metrics Across the Country
While 450 square feet marks the minimum one-bedroom apartment size, the national average is closer to 750 square feet. Here's a breakdown of typical small, average, and large one-bedroom layouts:
| Apartment Size | Square Footage Range |
| Small 1-Bedroom | 450 - 650 |
| Average 1-Bedroom | 650 - 850 |
| Large 1-Bedroom | Over 850 |
Older city apartments tend to have smaller one-bedroom units, while newer suburban complexes may offer more spacious options. Regardless, having an objective size reference helps inform your search.
Analyzing Your Spatial Needs
When touring potential one-bedroom apartments, consider your lifestyle and possession load. Do you need room for a dedicated home office? Bulk grocery hauls and a wine collection? Be realistic about your spatial needs.
Tips for Assessing Livability
Here are some strategies to test if a rental meets your requirements:
- Measure furniture and sketch proposed layouts
- Analyze closet depth and storage capacity
- Have a friend occupy problem areas during tours
- Note any natural light deficiencies early on
- Capture lots of photos to examine later
This upfront analysis gives you objective data to assess before signing a lease.
Prioritizing One-Bedroom Dimensions
To maximize comfort in a one-bedroom apartment, you'll likely need to compromise on room dimensions. But what areas can be downsized versus those requiring ample space?
Bedroom
Ideally, your bedroom should have at least 130 square feet once you factor in furnishings. If you share the space, aim for 180 square feet. Consider an adjustable Murphy bed to save space.
Common Living Area
For singles and couples, try securing around 150 total square feet for relaxing and dining. Open concept layouts expand perceived spaciousness. If working from home, allow for desk space.
Kitchen
Modern galley kitchens are space-efficient, provided you have enough counter area. Island kitchens give you more meal prep room but eat into common areas.
Bathroom
Bathrooms can squeeze into 25 square feet for just a shower stall, sink, and toilet. If you want shelving, a double vanity, or separate tub, allot more space.
Embracing Small Space Living
While upscaling to a two-bedroom sounds nice, some renters prioritize location, amenities, and price. Luckily, there are tricks to make living tiny feel mighty.
Creative Spatial Solutions
When dealing with a more compact one-bedroom layout, consider these adaptable furniture ideas and storage solutions:
- Fold-down dining tables and Murphy beds
- Dual-purpose ottomans with hidden storage
- Sleek, wall-mounted shelves instead of bulky bookcases
- Shared apartment complex laundry rooms over in-unit appliances
- Vertical racks, hanging rods, and stacking bins in closets
Rethink all potential wasted spaces to stow belongings out of sight. Consult an interior designer for customized small space recommendations.
Location and Variability Factors
One-bedroom dimensions fluctuate substantially depending on geographic area. In NYC, a 500 square foot unit could be a steal, while feeling suffocatingly confined in Houston. Here's a snapshot of typical sizes by metro area population density:
| Metro Type | Average One-Bedroom Size |
| Major Urban City | 650 - 800 sq. feet |
| Large Suburban City | 800 - 950 sq. feet |
| Mid-Size Town | 950 - 1100 sq. feet |
Consider compromising on dimensions to land that dream neighborhood or location if you'll mostly be out enjoying city amenities.
Micro Units Under 500 Square Feet
Some complexes now offer micro one-bedroom units with built-in furniture under 500 square feet. These award-winning small designs maximize every inch but require minimalism. They trade size for prime locations at affordable rates.
Key Property Amenities
When evaluating prospective one-bedrooms, don't fixate solely on dimensions. Onsite amenities can enhance quality of life in a compact space. Consider these potential complex perks:
- Swimming pools
- Fitness centers
- Roof decks and lounge areas
- Activity spaces for entertaining
- Free resident events and wifi
Some buildings also offer new tenant incentives like 1-2 months of free rent that improve affordability despite higher monthly rates.
Other Spatial Considerations
Along with apartment interiors, analyze access to offsite amenities nearby when touring units. Make sure there's adequate external storage, parking, and pet facilities if needed. Secured entry and quality noise insulation also enhance livability satisfaction.
When embarking on your apartment hunt, outline your must-have space, amenities, location perks, and budget. Tour a range of one-bedroom options through an objective size lens before choosing one that aligns with your lifestyle vision.
With strategic planning, even smaller urban one-bedrooms can accommodate thriving singles or couples. You may just need to embrace some creative furnishings and storage solutions.
By following the latest one-bedroom apartment dimension guidelines, you can feel confident your new home meets 2023 suitability standards for comfort and functionality.