Whether you’re renting or buying, price can be a major player in deciding what type of space fits your needs. While the size and square footage of a studio often make it a cheaper option than a 1-bedroom, it is important to remember that certain factors like location and amenities can also influence the price of an apartment.
Another important aspect to consider are the costs of utilities and maintenance in your home. Having less space to heat and cool, and less rooms with light fixtures will make the monthly gas and electric bill significantly more affordable in a studio. You will also spend significantly less on decor living in a studio, since there is only one room to furnish.
If your budget is the biggest influence in finding a home, then chances are a studio apartment will be the best fit for you. If privacy is a non-negotiable however, you may want to consider shelling out a bit more for that extra bedroom!
Budget can be a big factor in any apartment hunt, but the relationship between your lifestyle and the space you live is just as important when finding the perfect home.
If you’re planning on living with someone else, or a significant other, a one bedroom apartment will provide both of you with more space and privacy when needed, as well as room for storage and entertaining guests. Cohabiting a studio between two people can often be tricky and cramped!
Apartment hunters should also consider what style home will fit best with their daily routine. If you’re someone who enjoys entertaining and having friends over, living in a 1-bedroom gives you the space to host people comfortably. In a studio, your bed may have to double as both a couch and a coffee table! Throwing a party in a studio can be done, but having your personal space mixed with your entertaining space can sometimes make guests uncomfortable.
With online remote work becoming more and more popular, it is also important to think about how your apartment might also function as a home office. Working, eating, and sleeping in the same room can be taxing on your mental health and productivity, so having a 1-bedroom can give you the ample space needed to keep a designated work area separate from the rest of your living space.
The final factor in deciding between a 1-bedroom and studio is the location. While generally square footage will have the biggest impact on the price of an apartment, the reputation of the neighborhood and access to parking or public transportation can also play a big role.
For example, if you live outside of Philly and want to move closer to your office in Center City, you might have an easier time finding a studio apartment that fits your budget. In bustling and trendy neighborhoods studios are often easier to find, and are priced more affordably than 1-bedroom units.
However if you want to move into a 1-bedroom apartment on a budget, focus your apartment hunt on up-and-coming neighborhoods slightly away from the main hub of the city, like Northern Liberties or Fishtown! These neighborhoods offer plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and amenities, at a better price. Even though they are slightly off the beaten path, easy access to public transportation makes the journey to Center City only 10 minutes!
So which is better: studio or 1-bedroom? The reality is, there’s no single answer to this dilemma. A person’s apartment choice is entirely dependent on personal needs, style, and taste. We know it can be tricky to find an apartment that feels like the perfect fit, which is why we’re here to help. Feel free to contact our experienced team of realtors at GM Holdings for help with questions like these, and for assistance finding the perfect apartment for you.
