How To Choose Between a 1- or 2-Bedroom Apartment

Picking between a 1-bedroom vs a 2-bedroom apartment is one of the first decisions renters face, and it is rarely as simple as square footage and rent. The right answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you actually plan to use your space. Here is a clear guide to help you find the floor plan that fits your lifestyle.

When a 1-Bedroom Apartment Is the Right Fit

1-bedroom apartments are the right fit for a lot of renters. A well-designed 1-bedroom apartment is an intentional choice, refined, efficient, and purpose-built for residents who want a curated living experience without unused space. Lower rent means more flexibility in your budget for other priorities, whether that is building savings, exploring your city, or putting money toward other goals. A 1-bedroom also tends to feel easier to keep organized and furnished, especially if you are moving for the first time or prefer a more minimal lifestyle.

That said, remote work has changed the calculus for many renters. If you work from home and your living room doubles as your office, a 1-bedroom apartment for renters can feel tight over time. Some 1-bedroom homes include a den or bonus room that carves out a dedicated workspace without the cost of a second bedroom, which is worth looking for when you browse floor plans.

It is also worth noting that many luxury apartment communities by HILLS Properties offer shared workspaces within the community itself. Cyber cafes, conference rooms, and clubhouse lounges give residents a dedicated place to focus during the day without leaving the property, which gives you the flexibility to choose a 1-bedroom without sacrificing a productive workspace.

The Benefits of a 2-Bedroom Apartment

The benefits of a second bedroom go well beyond hosting overnight guests. A spare room gives you room to grow into: a dedicated home office, a creative studio, a workout space, or simply a private retreat when you need one. For those sharing a space or anyone who works remotely full-time, the separation of spaces can have a real impact on daily quality of life.

When it comes to the question of having an apartment guest room vs a home office, the good news is that a well-designed second bedroom can serve both purposes. Multipurpose furniture, like a daybed or a fold-out desk, means the room works for guests on weekends and as a workspace during the week. Many of HILLS Properties’ 2-bedroom apartments include layouts with bonus rooms or dens specifically designed for this kind of flexibility.

Is a 2-Bedroom Worth the Extra Rent?

The honest answer to whether a 2-bedroom is worth the extra rent depends on how you will use the space. If the second room will sit empty most of the time, the added cost is hard to justify. But if you work from home, regularly host guests, share the apartment with a roommate who splits costs, or simply value having space to spread out, the value of the added space becomes clear.

A useful rule of thumb: if you find yourself wishing for more space within the first few months of a 1-bedroom lease, a 2-bedroom is likely worth it. If you spend most of your time outside the apartment and just need a comfortable place to sleep and unwind, a 1-bedroom will serve you well.

Not sure which layout fits your life? Browse HILLS Properties floor plans to compare one and 2-bedroom options side by side, or read our guide on what to look for when touring an apartment before you schedule a visit. When you are ready to explore available apartments, every HILLS community is designed so that both layouts deliver an exceptional living experience.