What is an Efficiency Apartment? 

An efficiency apartment is an apartment with everything located in one overall room including the living area, dining area, and a kitchenette (but not a full kitchen). 

What is the difference between an efficiency apartment and a studio?

While efficiency apartments and studios are extremely similar, the kitchen vs. kitchenette difference is the key. 

Both efficiency apartments and studios have an open floor plan with all aspects located in one area except the bathroom, which will have a separate door. They are also on average similar in size at 500-600 square feet. 

A kitchenette in an efficiency apartment is a smaller version of a kitchen so it has a small sink, a mini-fridge, and maybe a microwave or hot stove. A full kitchen in a studio will have a full fridge, a regular-size sink (it’s all relative), and a full kitchen range for cooking.  

Other differences include a smaller bathroom in an efficiency apartment that might not have a bathtub like a studio apartment. Overall, studio apartments are more widely popular, but efficiency apartments are common in the most densely populated cities like New York City and fit into converted areas like in a basement, garage, or attic of a house.  

Which is cheaper, an efficiency apartment or a studio apartment?

Efficiency apartments usually are a little cheaper than studio apartments as they offer less with their kitchenettes, but they still can be expensive overall depending on the location. You’ll also save on furniture, utilities, and cleaning as the smaller space is easier to furnish and manage. 

Should You Pick an Efficiency Apartment?

If you are fine with not having a full kitchen and are comfortable with a cozy space, an efficiency apartment could be a great option for you. You’ll most likely have a great location and if you tend to spend most of your time outdoors or in the neighborhood, then you won’t have to worry about the amount of interior space you have. 

Efficiency apartments also make great second homes as occupants don’t have to live there full-time. One thing to consider is that without a full kitchen, it may make hosting others harder, but not if you take it as a fun challenge. Another consideration is that if you’re a couple or want to have any roommates, efficiency apartments may not be the right fit as they are the smallest amount of livable space out of all major housing options. 

Efficiency Apartment Living Tips 

You’ll want to make sure that every piece of furniture in an efficiency apartment serves multiple uses due to the limited space. Be thoughtful about what you need and consider what you could live without. 

Where to Find Efficiency Apartments

Efficiency apartments are mostly in huge cities and you can find them online at a variety of sites and compare them to studio apartments in specific neighborhoods. 

Alcove - A Better Option 

If you want an affordable place to live that has a full kitchen, more living space, and vetted roommates, Alcove’s co-living listings may be a great fit for you instead of an efficiency apartment. Check out Alcove’s listings today.