Choosing the right apartment size is a bit like choosing the right pair of shoes; it needs to fit your lifestyle, not just your budget. Too small, and it might feel cramped and messy. Too big, and you could be paying for space you never use. This guide will help you assess your needs and preferences to find the apartment that fits just right.

Why apartment size matters more than you think

When you begin your apartment search, you often use price and location as the first filters. But once you start touring units, square footage and layout become major factors in how livable a space actually feels. Size affects everything from how comfortable you are hosting guests to how easily you can store your belongings. It's not just about having enough room; it's about having the right kind of space.

A well-designed 600-square-foot apartment can feel more spacious than a poorly-designed 750-square-foot one. That’s why it’s essential to consider not just the number of bedrooms or total square footage, but how the space flows with your routine.

Start with assessing how you live

One of the best ways to gauge how much space you need is to take an honest look at your current living habits. Are you someone who loves to cook and needs a larger kitchen? Do you work from home and need a dedicated office space? Are you constantly entertaining, or do you prefer solo nights with a book and a blanket?

If you’re already living in an apartment, ask yourself:

• What feels cramped?
• Which spaces go unused?
• Where could you use more flexibility or storage?
• Do you want to keep your existing furniture or change it up?

These reflections help clarify what kind of space will support—not restrict—your day-to-day life.

What are the typical apartment sizes?

To help you visualize the range of apartment options, here’s a quick comparison of standard unit types and their general square footage:

Keep in mind that actual layouts vary by property. Some Greystar communities offer lofts, dens, or open-concept floor plans that make smaller spaces feel much larger.

Visualizing apartment sizes: what does that square footage really look like?

When you're apartment hunting, it can be hard to picture how big 500 or 800 square feet actually is. To help, we’ve pulled together a few visual references and comparisons to make it easier to imagine how much space you're working with.

1-Bedroom apartment example (approx. 650–750 sq. ft.)

The layout below shows a typical one-bedroom apartment with a defined bedroom, full kitchen, bathroom, and a combined living/dining area. For reference:

• The living room in this example is 15'3" x 15' — about the size of a one-car garage.
• The bedroom is 12'8" x 10'7", roughly the size of two queen-sized beds laid side-by-side.
• The dining nook (8'5" x 7'11") is about the size of a small home office or walk-in closet.
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Size comparisons to keep in mind:

• Studio apartments (400–600 sq. ft.) are about the size of a large hotel room.
• 1-bedroom apartments (600–800 sq. ft.) offer space for separation and storage, similar to a small cottage.
• 2-bedroom apartments (800–1,200 sq. ft.) can feel as spacious as a small house, often with room for a dining area, home office, or roommate setup.

Seeing the layout can help you figure out how your furniture will fit, how much open space you’ll have, and whether the layout fits your lifestyle. If you’re unsure, try taping off room sizes in your current space or using an online layout tool to map it out.

Lifestyle considerations that impact space needs

Choosing an apartment is personal, and your lifestyle plays a huge role in determining what size makes the most sense. Here’s how to evaluate the factors that often affect space decisions:

1. Working from home
 

Remote workers often find that an extra bedroom, den, or spacious living area makes a big difference. You may not need an office with a door, but even a corner nook for a desk can improve productivity.

2. Entertaining and hosting
 

If you frequently host dinners, movie nights, or overnight guests, you may benefit from a larger living area, kitchen, or even a guest bedroom. An open-concept layout can also help smaller apartments feel more spacious during gatherings.

3. Hobbies and storage
 

Do you have sports gear, crafting supplies, or musical instruments? The more gear you have, the more you’ll value closet space, pantries, and additional square footage. Storage-friendly layouts can help you stay organized without sacrificing livability.

4. Pets
 

A pet-friendly apartment is more than just policy—it’s about space, too. Dogs may need room to roam, while cat owners may want space for climbing towers or litter boxes.

Square footage isn't everything

Two apartments with the same square footage can feel completely different depending on the layout. For example, a 850-square-foot one-bedroom with a large open living area may feel larger than one with larger closets and bathrooms, and a more closed off layout. Look for efficient floor plans that maximize natural light, minimize wasted space, and offer smart storage solutions.

Some Greystar communities offer virtual tours, letting you see how the space flows before you visit in person. This can be especially helpful if you're comparing multiple unit types within the same property.

What size apartment is right for you? A quick decision guide

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown to help guide your decision based on real-life priorities:

Don’t forget about the closet and storage space

Before deciding you need a larger unit, consider how well a space accommodates your belongings. Does it offer:

• A walk-in closet or multiple wardrobes?
• A separate pantry or linen closet?
• Space-saving features like built-in shelving?

Many Greystar communities offer smart storage layouts, including in-unit washer/dryers, coat closets, and kitchen islands with built-in storage. Some communities also have additional storage options outside of your unit that you can rent for a fee. These elements can make a smaller apartment feel much larger than it appears on paper.

Find your perfect space with Greystar

At Greystar, we believe that home should work for you. That’s why our communities offer flexible floor plans, thoughtful design, and expert guidance to help you make a confident choice. Our leasing teams can help you weigh the pros and cons of each layout, explore flexible lease terms, and even compare units within the same community to find the best fit. Browse Greystar apartments in your area.