What Is an Efficiency Apartment? + How to Find One [2025]

Efficiency apartments are units with a single room with a kitchenette, living room space, bedroom, and bathroom. These are often confused with studio apartments, but there are key differences. Efficiency apartments are typically smaller than studios and come with fewer features.

The bathrooms in efficiency apartments are often smaller than the bathrooms you'd find in studios. Instead of a bath and shower, you might just have a shower. You'll also likely have less counter space in your bathroom.

Both efficiency and studio apartments are usually less expensive than a one-bedroom apartment and are a good option for renters who don’t mind the small space. Here’s a look at the breakdown of efficiency apartments and how to find one on your next apartment search.

What Is the Difference Between Efficiency Apartments and Studios?

Efficiency apartments are usually smaller and cheaper than studios, often have kitchenettes instead of kitchens, may lack certain other amenities such as storage options, and are best suited for a single tenant.

Here’s an in-depth look at the differences between efficiency and studio apartments.

1. Apartment Size

The square footage of studio apartments is typically around 500-600 square feet. In some apartment buildings, you might find much larger studios with open-concept layouts and a large living area. Efficiency apartments are almost always going to be a bit smaller than the standard studio.

2. Kitchen Size

Efficiency apartments are usually smaller than a studio because they have a smaller kitchen space. Many studios will feature a full-size, fully-functional kitchen. Studio kitchens will typically come equipped with your typical appliances and adequate counter space.

In an efficiency apartment, you'll likely find some variation of a kitchenette. A kitchenette is a smaller version of a kitchen that has fewer appliances. You’ll probably have things like a mini-fridge and a stovetop with only one or two burners. If cooking isn’t your thing, this setup might be fine for you. If you love cooking, an efficiency apartment wouldn't be your best bet.

However, there are ways to optimize organization and ways to make your small kitchen look bigger.

3. Price

Efficiency apartments tend to have slightly lower rents than studios, but the difference isn't too substantial. However, both studio and efficiency apartment renters benefit from lower decorating costs, furnishing costs, and utility bill costs.

If you are on a tight budget, these savings might be crucial in your decision between an efficiency apartment or a studio apartment.

If the price difference is negligible, the location, apartment layout, and the apartment building should be your deciding factors.

4. Occupancy

In an efficiency apartment, you pretty much need to live alone. Living with a roommate is going to be extremely cramped. Unless you live a very minimalist lifestyle, it’s best to avoid that situation.

In a larger studio, you could make living with a roommate work. It's certainly not ideal, but it's easier to set up a living space with the extra square footage available to you.

How Do You Find an Efficiency Apartment?

Efficiency apartments are generally found in converted homes or properties. As studio apartments can be found in nearly any property type, efficiency apartments are much harder to find than studio apartments. To find a space that actually fits your lifestyle, try these smart tips based on what kind of apartment you’re looking for:

• Do you need separation in your studio apartment? Search for alcove studios or L-shaped layouts. These give you visual boundaries without sacrificing the open floor plan.
• Use square footage filters. A one-bedroom that’s only 450 square feet might feel tighter than a roomy 600-square-foot studio. Skip the labels, and filter by space size instead.
• Prioritize floor and unit type. Studios on top floors or corner units often feel more private and quiet, which are big wins when your bed is also your sofa and your desk.
• Watch for amenity trade-offs. Some buildings with smaller units make up for it with killer amenities. Decide what matters more to you: square footage or a rooftop pool?

How Do You Find Studios and Efficiency Apartments?

If you take our easy quiz to get matched with an apartment, make sure to select "studio" on the first question, which will include efficiencies as well. The price point you set will determine what kind of apartments you'll be shown, and if there are efficiencies in your price range and area, you'll be able to see them in your suggestions.

Do You Really Save Money with an Efficiency Apartment?

Yes, efficiency apartments usually cost less than traditional one-bedroom units across rent and monthly expenses. Their smaller size also means you’ll save on utilities like heating, cooling, and electricity. Furnishing a single-room space is cheaper, too. However, savings depend on location. In high-demand areas, some studios can be nearly as expensive as one-bedrooms, especially if they come with luxury amenities. To truly save money, compare square footage, included utilities, and any extra fees before you sign the lease.

How Do You Find For-Rent-by-Owner Units?

Efficiencies are often small rooms inside of homes, so you may have luck if you try our tips for finding for-rent-by-owner apartments.

What Are the Benefits of Living in an Efficiency Apartment?

There are a few added benefits to living in the small space offered by an efficiency apartment. Don't let the small space scare you away before considering the benefits!

1. Location

Typically, efficiency apartments are located in cities’ downtown centers. If you are looking for an affordable apartment in the middle of a city, you should consider efficiency apartments.

You may be able to afford a one-bedroom twenty minutes out of downtown. But if opting for a small apartment allows you to live in the heart of the city, the added benefits are huge. You can walk to your favorite downtown spots instead of driving or bike to the downtown office instead of commuting and sitting in traffic.

If living in a lively part of town is your dream, living in a small apartment might get you there.

2. Saving Money

Living in an efficiency apartment could save you tons of money, as efficiency apartments are typically among the cheapest rental units. If you plan on living in a desirable location but have a tight budget, efficiency apartments are a nice, affordable option.

Rent is always the least expensive for these types of floorplans. Passing up a one-bedroom for an efficiency apartment can save you hundreds in rent.

Beyond cheaper rent, you'll see even greater savings from living in a small apartment. You need less furniture and less decor and will spend less on utilities. Before making a decision, be sure to factor in these savings.

3. Less Space Means Less Clutter & Better Decor

Unfortunately, living in a small studio or efficiency apartment means you have less storage space. The lack of counter space and walk-in closet may be a dealbreaker for some. Others might see it as an opportunity to say goodbye to some of your useless belongings.

Moreover, when you’re decorating your efficiency apartment, you’ll find that bolder items are a better pick than collecting knickknacks that end up looking more like clutter than decor.

4. Less to Clean

Can't stand cleaning your apartment? Efficiency apartments just may be your perfect match!

Rent an apartment with a lot less space and you'll have a lot less to clean. Not only do you have less space to look after, but if you cut back on clothes, that means less laundry as well.

Which Apartment Type Fits Your Lifestyle?

Instead of trying to figure out which apartment is the right choice, focus on how it fits your lifestyle.

• Young professionals, recent grads, or solo renters on a budget: Studios and efficiency apartments get you in the door of your dream neighborhood, but without blowing your budget on unused space.
• Remote workers or couples: A one-bedroom gives you room to breathe, Zoom, and not step on each other’s stuff. More walls = more sanity.
• Pet owners: Many apartment communities have stricter pet rules for smaller units. A one-bedroom often gives you more flexibility.

Your space should work for your actual life, not just your Pinterest board. If you’re unsure, start with your non-negotiables and let the filters do the rest.

Get Matched with an Efficiency Apartment Today

Let Apartment List help you find your next home. Just use our quiz!

Efficiency Apartment FAQs

What is a studio apartment?

Studio apartments are essentially one combined room with a kitchen, bedroom, and living room located within the same space. While a one-bedroom apartment features a living room and bedroom, studio apartments combine the two. Studio apartment floor plans will always include a separate bathroom, either within the unit or a shared bathroom. While you likely won't have the real estate to entertain guests in a studio, it's a solid choice for a renter living alone.

What appliances are in an efficiency apartment?

Efficiencies distinguish themselves from studios primarily due to their lack of a full kitchen, which means that you may have very few appliances. Some efficiencies come with a mini refrigerator and a burner with one or two stovetops as well as a small sink. However, it's possible to find efficiencies without any major appliances, in which case, you may need to look into purchasing a mini fridge, toaster oven, and/or microwave.

How do you cook in an efficiency apartment?

Here are seven options for cooking in an efficiency apartment:

1. Toaster oven: Beyond toasting bread, you can also create baked goods and even roast flank steak or salmon.
2. Air fryer: For everything you could fry in oil on your stovetop (only healthier!)
3. Microwave: From boiling water to popcorn to baked potatoes, you can do just about anything in your microwave.
4. Rice cookers: Rice cookers not only cook rice, but they can also be used to steam veggies and meats for a full meal.
5. Slow cooker: You can make anything from pot roast to pasta to delicious dips in your slow cooker with minimal effort.
6. Hot plate: Can replace a stovetop to make almost anything on a griddle, including pancakes and sausage.
7. Waffle maker: A small waffle maker can also make great paninis and "chaffles" (a low-carb waffle alternative)—don't knock them til you try them!

How can I make my efficiency apartment look bigger?

1. Understand the space: Know how big certain approximations are. Here's our guide to imagining what 300 square feet looks like.
2. Hang curtains: To diffuse light and to make the room appear taller.
3. Light colored paint: Light colored paint generally makes a room feel bigger. Exceptions include dark blue and some earthy colors.
4. Divide the space into sections: Use the clever placement of furniture to create zones within the space.
5. Hang mirrors: To create the feeling of a larger room.
6. Use natural light: Natural light automatically makes a space feel more open.
7. Utilize hidden storage: Use under-the-bed (and under-the-couch) storage options to hide away your items you don't use everyday.
8. Vertical stripes: Vertical stripes on your walls can make the room feel taller.

Are efficiency apartments good for students?

Yes, efficiency apartments are a popular choice for students thanks to their affordability and minimal maintenance. With a smaller space and fewer appliances, they're easy to manage between classes and ideal for renters who don’t need a lot of extra room.

Can I rent an efficiency apartment with a pet?

It depends on the building’s pet policy. Many efficiency apartments allow small pets, but space and layout might not be ideal for larger breeds or high-energy animals. Make sure to ask about breed, size, and weight restrictions before you sign and ask yourself if your pet would thrive in a smaller space.