When you start apartment hunting — especially in big cities like Montreal or Toronto — you’ll quickly notice listings that say studio flat, studio apartment, or bachelor apartment. They sound similar, but they don’t always mean the same thing. The layouts are different, the prices vary, and for some renters, that small distinction can make a big difference in daily life.
So, what exactly is a studio flat, and how does it compare to a one-bedroom apartment?
A Studio Flat: One Room, One Living Space
A studio flat is basically one open area used for several purposes all at once. This will be your bedroom, living room, dining area, and kitchen area in a single large room. There's no wall that divides the sleeping area from the kitchen or the living area, except for the bathroom.
The typical studio apartment might have around 300 to 500 square feet of floor space, though that depends on the building and the city. It's compact, functional, and built to make the most of a smaller space. A studio apartment consists of a main room kitchen with basic cooking facilities, a private bathroom, and sometimes a small closet for storage space.
Some use room divider curtains or shelving to separate areas within the same room, not because it's necessarily required but because it helps make them feel like the space is more put together.
How It Differs From a One-Bedroom Apartment
The main difference between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment comes down to separation. A one-bedroom gives you a separate bedroom, separate bathroom, and separate kitchen — three distinct rooms. A studio, on the other hand, is just one single room (plus the bathroom).
That design difference also affects your budget. Studio apartments usually come with lower rent and smaller utility bills. You’ll spend less on council tax (if you live in the U.K.) and less on heating or electricity in Canada. A one-bedroom apartment, with its more rooms and larger space, typically has a higher price but gives you more privacy and comfort.
So if your priority is location and saving money, a studio flat wins. If you need space to spread out, a one-bedroom might be worth the extra cost.
What Living in a Studio Apartment Feels Like
Studio life can be cozy or cramped, depending on how you make use of the space. Studio flats tend to be rentals of preference for many young working professionals and students alike, due to their often central locations and affordability. You are usually close to transit, restaurants, and work.
Because everything’s in the same room, organization becomes essential. Multi-purpose furniture, foldable dining tables, and vertical shelves make a small space work better. Good lighting, mirrors, and even wall art can also make a difference in how open the room feels.
If you like minimalism, a studio is a great match. There’s less cleaning, fewer things to buy, and the open floor plan makes it easy to design around your lifestyle.
The Bachelor Apartment: Canada’s Take on the Studio Flat
In Canada, a bachelor apartment is basically the same thing as a studio flat — a compact apartment with one main room and a private bathroom. Older bachelor apartments sometimes have a separate kitchen, especially in older Montreal buildings, but most modern versions follow an open layout.
Both bachelor apartments and studio flats appeal to single tenants and young professionals starting out. They’re simple, practical, and usually located in the heart of the city.
Why Studio Flats Are a Good Investment
From a rental property standpoint, studio flats are often a good investment. They rent fast because there’s always demand for smaller, affordable living spaces. Other tenants, like students or newcomers, often prefer them for shorter stays.
For property owners, studios are easier to maintain, require less furnishing, and generate steady income. In tight housing markets, smaller living areas are becoming more common — not just out of necessity, but as a modern, flexible way of living.
The Pros and Cons of Living in a Studio
Pros:
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Lower rent and bills.
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Less cleaning and maintenance.
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Normally in central locations.
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Great for people who just want a simple, efficient home.
Cons:
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Limited space for storage or entertaining.
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No separate bedroom or privacy.
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Smell of cooking can spread in the same room.
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Might feel temporary if you stay long-term.
The Clear Difference: Studio vs One Bedroom
At the end of the day, the clear difference between a studio apartment and a one-bedroom apartment comes down to how the space is divided. The former has one big room for everything; the latter has separate rooms for sleeping, cooking, and living.
A studio saves money and keeps life simple. A one-bedroom costs more but offers more comfort and separation. There’s no “better” choice — just what fits your needs and lifestyle.
In a world where people living in big cities are looking for ways to cut costs without giving up convenience, the studio flat is proof that a smaller space can still make a big difference.
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