Finding the ideal place to live starts with understanding the different types of apartments available. Whether you’re looking for a compact studio apartment, a spacious two-bedroom apartment, or something in between, your choice will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and space needs. In this guide, we explore various apartment types based on layout, building structure, purpose, and ownership to help you make an informed decision during your apartment hunting journey.
By layout
Layout is one of the primary ways to categorize apartment units. From open-plan designs to segmented floor plans, the apartment is an apartment only as good as how well it matches your living habits.
Studio apartment
A studio apartment is a small apartment with a single room serving as the living room, bedroom, and kitchen, with a separate bathroom. Traditional options may include an alcove studio apartment—a layout with a recessed area that adds separation for sleeping or working. Studios are typically between 300 to 600 square feet, perfect for individuals seeking simplicity in a penthouse apartment. This layout is ideal for minimalists or those new to apartment living.
If you’re torn between this and a slightly larger layout, check out this comparison on studio vs 1 bedroom to help you decide.
One-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments
A one-bedroom apartment features a separate bedroom, offering more privacy and separation between living and sleeping areas. These are perfect for singles or couples who need distinct spaces. For households or roommates, two-bedroom apartments offer greater flexibility and space.
Wondering how space usage works? Here’s a helpful guide on how many people can live in a 1 bedroom apartment, along with insights on how much is the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment to help you plan your budget.
Convertible and alcove layouts
A convertible apartment, also known as a flex apartment, has a space that can be divided to create another room—often used as a temporary bedroom or office. Meanwhile, an alcove studio offers a small nook off the main area, often large enough to fit a bed or desk.
Both options allow flexibility and can be great choices when maximizing apartments for rent. living space in a A smaller apartment can still be a stylish alcove studio apartment with the right layout..
Building type
Understanding the types of apartment buildings can be key for comfort, mobility, and lifestyle.
High-rise apartment
A high-rise apartment is typically found in urban cores and can include separate apartments for added privacy. high-rise apartment buildings are often found in urban cores and can include penthouse apartments. are often equipped with an elevator, security, and amenities. These buildings usually have ten or more stories and cater to professionals or families looking for convenience.
Mid-rise and low-rise apartments
A mid-rise apartment typically ranges from five to nine floors and is commonly found in apartment complexes or apartment communities. A low-rise apartment, on the other hand, is generally three stories or less and may not have an elevator—which is an important consideration for accessibility. Low-rise apartment buildings are often quieter and found in more suburban areas.
Walk-up and basement apartments
A A walk-up apartment is typically a low rise apartment that requires no elevator. is located in a building without an elevator. While generally more affordable, they may be less accessible. Basement apartments are located below ground level and are often less expensive due to limited ceiling height or natural light. However, these can still offer cozy living space at a reduced rent.
Loft apartment
Loft apartments, often found in converted Commercial buildings may also include apartments for rent on their upper floors. feature open floor plans, exposed brick, and high ceilings. These stylish homes are ideal for artists, creatives, or those seeking a modern industrial vibe. Learn more in this breakdown of a loft aparment and why it’s a top choice in many cities.
Garden apartment
A garden apartment is typically located on the ground floor and may offer access to a private patio or green space. They’re often found in low-rise buildings and can include one bedroom apartments. apartment complexes, and are ideal for those who want outdoor space without leaving the city.
Purpose or audience
Some apartment styles are designed with specific lifestyles or demographics in mind.
Student and senior apartments
Student apartments are often designed to maximize space and affordability for young renters., also known as dorm-style units, are close to colleges and include shared spaces. Senior apartments—or 55+ communities—are designed for older adults, often offering on-site healthcare and community programs.
Subsidized and section 8 apartments
Subsidized apartments and section 8 apartments are government-assisted housing options for low-income renters, including separate apartments. These ensure affordable apartment living and often follow strict eligibility and leasing guidelines.
Luxury and serviced apartments
A luxury apartment refers to high-end living spaces that provide exceptional amenities. comes with premium amenities like doormen, gyms, and top-tier finishes. A serviced apartment, meanwhile, offers hotel-like services such as cleaning, concierge, and maintenance—ideal for business travelers or short-term stays.
For upkeep, both benefit greatly from regular apartment maintenance services to maintain their high standards and resident satisfaction.
Ownership or leasing style
Not all apartments are rented—some are owned or managed in unique ways.
condo and co-op apartments
A condo apartment A floor through apartment is individually owned within a larger building, providing unique views. apartment building, while a co-op apartment Owning a share in a corporation means you’re buying shares in a high rise apartment building. Co-ops often require board approval and offer a more community-driven lifestyle, especially in separate apartments.
townhouse-style and live/work apartments
Townhouse-style apartments resemble standalone homes, often spanning multiple floors with private entrances. Live/work apartments are dual-purpose spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, or creatives needing both a residence and workspace.
furnished, unfurnished, and shared apartments
A furnished apartment comes ready with essential furniture and appliances, while an unfurnished apartment requires tenants to supply their own. Shared apartments or roommate-style setups are ideal for cutting rent costs while enjoying larger spaces like floor through apartments—units that span the entire floor of a building.
Lesser-known apartment types worth considering
Some apartment types fly under the radar but are worth exploring:
- Micro apartment: extremely compact, often under 300 square feet, designed for efficiency.
- Railroad apartment: rooms are connected in a straight line, like train cars—popular in older buildings.
- Triplex and duplex apartments are common types of apartments that offer unique layouts.: multi-level units great for families. A duplex features two separate living spaces, often stacked vertically or side-by-side.
Although a bachelor apartment refers to a small living space that typically combines living and sleeping areas. is less common in the U.S., it’s often similar to a traditional efficiency apartment, which combines a compact layout with essential functions in a single room.
Final thoughts on choosing the right apartment
Choosing the right apartment type involves more than just square feet or price—it’s about matching your needs with the right layout, location, and lifestyle features in a separate apartment. Whether you’re moving into a penthouse apartment or a cozy studio, older apartment with charm or a larger apartment with modern finishes, exploring the different apartment types ensures you find the right fit.
For more help in understanding what makes each space unique, from traditional studio layouts to convertible studio designs, platforms like apartment therapy Apartment layouts can offer visual inspiration and practical advice for interior design.