An efficiency apartment, also known as a bachelor or studio apartment, is a small, self-contained living space that combines the bedroom, living room, and kitchen into a single room.
Efficiencies are similar to studio apartments, and the terms are often used interchangeably. But while these two spaces share many features, they aren’t identical.
While the basic layout is the same, an efficiency apartment has a few features that make it different from a typical studio. While there are no rules on what makes an efficiency an efficiency, these subtle differences can help you determine which space best fits your needs compared to the many other types of apartments.
The size of an efficiency apartment is like that of a studio, averaging about 400 to 600 square feet. However, a studio can be much larger than that, even as large as 900 to 1,000 square feet. An efficiency apartment is almost always small and might even be less than 500 square feet.
Efficiency Kitchens and Baths are Minimal
Studio apartments have full kitchens with full-size refrigerators, ranges, and sinks. The kitchen is often along one wall, maximizing the available floor space while providing ample counter space.
An efficiency typically has a kitchenette, offering a minimalist kitchen approach. If there is a sink, it’s typically smaller than a standard kitchen sink. A kitchenette will likely have a mini refrigerator (counter-height or smaller).
Efficiency apartments usually have a microwave or a small cooktop instead of a standard kitchen range. The kitchenette is usually in a separate area, such as a small alcove. It has little to no counter space and few, if any, cabinets.
Bathrooms, which legally must be walled off, might be smaller in an efficiency apartment. For example, you may find a bathtub and no shower (or vice versa) rather than both.
Efficiency Apartments Primarily in Dense, Urban Centers
Efficiency apartments are most commonly found in very large, densely populated cities such as New York and Los Angeles. They are also more common in converted properties, such as traditional single-family homes with garages, basements, or attics.
While efficiencies are slightly less expensive than studio apartments, the price depends largely on location. If you want to live in the heart of downtown, the rent will be higher. It also depends on whether the apartment community offers luxury amenities and what features and upgrades are included.
Being in the heart of a business district allows efficiency apartment renters to walk often, bicycle, or take public transit to work or leisure activities.
You may be able to afford a one-bedroom 20 minutes outside of downtown. However, the added benefits are huge if a small apartment allows you to live in the heart of the city. Walk to your favorite downtown hot spots instead of driving. Walk to your office building instead of commuting and sitting in traffic. This reduces the need for a car, maintenance, and fuel.
Efficiency Rents Lower than Other Solo Housing Types
Renting an efficiency apartment will likely allow you to live alone in a highly sought-after location for a reasonable price. Because of its limited functionality, rents are lower than other solo housing types. Passing up a one-bedroom for an efficiency apartment can save you hundreds in rent.
Because efficiencies are such small spaces, you’ll pay less in utilities (it won’t take much to heat or cool a 500-square-foot room). You’ll also need less furniture and décor, which could save you more money. The compact space can also make cleaning and maintenance easier.
Disadvantages of Efficiency Apartments
- Smaller Size: Their smaller size can be challenging, especially for storage. If you live with a significant other, you may lack privacy and have little room to entertain guests. Efficiency is not conducive to having a roommate, as the two of you will feel cramped. It can also cause a feeling of claustrophobia.
- The lack of counter space and a walk-in closet may be a dealbreaker for some. If you like activities that require a lot of gear, you may have to consider paying for external storage.
- Kitchen and Cooking: If you love to cook, efficiency apartments will be limited due to the lack of a full kitchen. In the best-case scenario, you’ll cook in a toaster oven without much counter space. This also means you’ll spend more on eating out, which can add up quickly.
Efficiency Apartments: A Great Value
If you value location over space and prefer living alone, an efficiency apartment could be a great option. Before renting an efficiency apartment, we recommend checking out our blog on the Rental Application Process to get a better understanding of how everything works.
Efficiency apartments are very cozy, and if you like the idea of living a minimalistic lifestyle, you’ll appreciate the practical layout.
For more on how to find the right place to live for your needs, visit our Renters Blog.