Studio Apartments vs. Common Rooms: 5 Differences You Need to Know

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, finding the right accommodation can be a daunting task, especially with sky-high rental prices. As an expatriate or digital nomad, you might find yourself gravitating towards studio apartments for rent, which have seen a rising trend in popularity recently. On the other hand, common rooms in shared spaces have also been a go-to choice for many due to their affordable rates.

Let’s delve into the features of these two different accommodation types to help you make an informed decision that suits your needs.

Defining Studio Apartments and Common Rooms in Singapore

What is a studio apartment?

A studio apartment, often referred to as a studio flat or a studio unit (or a bachelor apartment, if you’re that kind of guy), is a type of accommodation that combines the living room, bedroom, and kitchen into a single, open-plan space. It’s quite different from a one-bedroom apartment, as those usually have separate bedrooms from the living spaces.

In a studio rental property, the bathroom is usually the only room separated by walls. Singapore’s studio apartments tend to vary in size but are typically designed to accommodate one or two individuals comfortably. They are a popular choice among digital nomads, working professionals, and those who prefer living independently, even if some studio units don’t have storage space.

What is a common room?

On the other hand, a common room is typically a private room within a larger apartment or Singapore condo rental. This option involves sharing communal areas such as the kitchen, living room, and sometimes the bathroom, with other tenants. Common rooms are usually cheaper than studio apartments, making them a popular choice among students, or individuals who enjoy living in shared spaces.

Having understood the basic features of both types of apartments, it’s time to dive into the details of the space and privacy provided by studio apartments and common rooms so you can see which is the ideal choice for you.

Studio Apartments vs. Common Rooms: 5 Factors You Need to Consider

1. Comparing Space and Privacy in Studio Apartments and Common Rooms

If privacy and personal space rank high on your needs, studio apartments for rent in Singapore may be your best bet. Given their design, studio apartments offer an all-inclusive, private space. The open-plan layout accommodates different living areas—sleeping, cooking, and lounging—in the same room. While the actual square footage might be smaller than a full-sized apartment, this compact setup creates an impression of spaciousness.

Studio apartments present a unique opportunity for tenants to enjoy the luxury of solitude. The space is exclusively yours, from the bathroom to the kitchenette. As such, you are free to live on your own terms without needing to navigate shared spaces or roommate preferences. This degree of privacy can be a boon for those who value personal space or prefer to control their environment entirely.

On the other hand, a common room is part of a larger living arrangement. You’re sharing common spaces like the living room, kitchen, and, in some cases, the bathroom. While your bedroom remains your private space, the nature of shared living means that complete privacy can be compromised, especially where there’s a separate bathroom. This living situation often involves house rules set collectively by all residents.

Living in a common room also means adapting to other people’s schedules and habits, which might not always align with yours. This arrangement can foster a sense of community, especially if you enjoy socialising. But that could be a challenge for those craving solitude.

With these key differences in mind, let’s examine the furnishings and amenities each option offers.

2. Furnishings and Amenities in Studio Apartments vs Common Rooms

Let’s consider the aspect of furnishing and amenities. A typical studio apartment for rent in Singapore is a fully furnished unit, complete with necessary appliances such as a refrigerator, cooker, and sometimes even a washer-dryer unit. The living space is designed to be a functional, self-sufficient entity, essentially a home away from home.

With everything set in place, moving into a studio apartment can be a hassle-free experience. This type of apartment is an ideal option for those wanting an uncomplicated transition into their new living quarters, especially digital nomads or expatriates who may not wish to invest in furniture or appliances.

On the contrary, the level of furnishing in common rooms varies significantly. While the bedroom is usually furnished, the separate spaces like the kitchen and living room depend on the combined resources of all tenants. This arrangement might require investing time and money into furnishing or equipping the shared spaces to your liking.

Moreover, amenities such as Wi-Fi, or laundry facilities, which might be part of the deal in some serviced studio apartments, may not be available in shared living spaces. Consequently, these amenities may incur additional costs or need to be sourced elsewhere.

The level of furnishing and amenities directly impacts the cost. With this understanding, let’s delve into a comparative cost analysis of studio apartments and common rooms.

3. Cost Analysis of Studio Apartments vs Common Rooms in Singapore

Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: cost. It’s important to note that rental rates for the average studio apartments and common rooms in Singapore depends on various factors. These include location, amenities provided, size, and the state of the property, among other things.

A studio apartment for rent in Singapore may seem to carry a heftier price tag upfront. Given its self-contained nature and more comprehensive amenities, this comes as no surprise. Yet, when you consider the convenience of having your own personal space and the savings on furnishings and appliances, it’s clear that this can be a cost-effective choice for many, especially for long-term stays. Plus, there are ways to save money when renting a studio unit in Singapore.

In contrast, renting a common room in a shared apartment or in a Singapore condo rental may initially appear more cost-effective due to lower rental rates. However, don’t forget to factor in shared costs for utilities and possible additional expenses for furniture or appliances. Plus, the cost of external amenities, if not included in the rent, could add up over time.

Clearly, the choice between a studio apartment and a common room goes beyond mere cost comparisons. Your apartment hunt also needs to consider your individual lifestyle preferences, which we will discuss next.

4. Lifestyle Choices: The Impact on Your Decision to Rent in Singapore

The increasing trend of remote work has greatly influenced the demand for studio apartments for rent. A studio apartment is a versatile option that can effortlessly transform into a personal workspace, providing an environment conducive to productivity. If you’re a digital nomad seeking a cheap studio unit for rent in Singapore, you’ll appreciate the ability to work and relax in separate areas within the same space, without any disruptions.

On the other hand, in shared apartments, dedicated working spaces might not always be available. Common rooms are typically meant for relaxation and socialisation, and may not offer the same level of quiet and privacy that’s necessary for work. However, some shared living arrangements, like Singapore coliving spaces, can feature communal working areas, making them a viable option for remote workers.

Knowing how you plan to use your living space is key in determining which rental option fits you best. Now, let’s summarize the pros and cons of both options to give you a clearer perspective.

5. Navigating the New Normal: Work-from-Home Spaces in Studio Apartments and Common Rooms

The increasing trend of remote work has greatly influenced the demand for studio apartments for rent. A studio apartment is a versatile option that can effortlessly transform into a personal workspace, providing an environment conducive to productivity. If you’re a digital nomad seeking a cheap studio unit for rent in Singapore, you’ll appreciate the ability to work and relax in separate areas within the same space, without any disruptions.

On the other hand, in shared apartments, dedicated working spaces might not always be available. Common rooms are typically meant for relaxation and socialisation, and may not offer the same level of quiet and privacy that’s necessary for work. However, some shared living arrangements, like Singapore coliving spaces, can feature communal working areas, making them a viable option for remote workers.

Knowing how you plan to use your living space is key in determining which rental option fits you best. Now, let’s summarize the pros and cons of both options to give you a clearer perspective.

Pros and Cons of Studio Apartments and Common Rooms

When it comes to renting in Singapore, whether you opt for a studio apartment or a common room largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both:

Studio Apartment Pros and Cons

Pros:

Cons:

Total privacy: Your space is entirely yours.
Independence: No need to coordinate with flatmates.
Dedicated workspace: Ideal for remote work and digital nomads.
Comprehensive amenities: Often come with a private kitchen, bathroom, and sometimes even a laundry unit.
Control over your environment: You set the rules, cleanliness standards, and décor.
Simplicity: You only deal with one bill.

Higher cost: Relatively more expensive than renting a common room.
Limited space: Less square footage compared to an apartment.
Potential for loneliness: Without flatmates, it can feel isolating.
More responsibility: You are solely responsible for maintenance and cleaning.

Common Room Pros and Cons

Pros:

Cons:

Lower cost: More affordable than a studio apartment.
Social interaction: Flatmates can provide companionship and local insights.
Shared utilities: Costs for utilities and Wi-Fi are often split among flatmates.
Fewer responsibilities: Others share cleaning and maintenance tasks.

Less privacy: You share living spaces with others.
Limited control: Rules, décor, and cleanliness depend on consensus.
Noise: Potential for disruption due to flatmates’ schedules and habits.
Shared amenities: The bathroom, kitchen, and living areas are common spaces.
Potential conflict: Differences in lifestyle or personality can cause friction.
Variable costs: Utility bills may vary based on usage by all flatmates.

When it comes to renting in Singapore, whether you opt for a studio apartment or a common room largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both options:

Making Your Choice: Finding Your Ideal Home in Singapore

Choosing the right accommodation can greatly impact your experience in Singapore. If privacy, independence, and a dedicated workspace are high on your priority list, then a studio apartment for rent in Singapore may be the perfect fit for you. After all, most studio apartment sizes can have enough space for most of your needs. However, if you’re more budget-conscious and enjoy the company of others, a common room in a shared apartment might be a more suitable option.

MetroResidences offers a wide range of affordable Singapore serviced apartments that are perfect for your next business trip. Conveniently located near coveted locales such as Raffles Place, Orchard Road, and Arab Street, our apartments come fully furnished with hassle-free access to public transport. Enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioners, and fully-equipped kitchens.

Decide what’s best for your lifestyle and budget, and remember, your choice of accommodation should be a home away from home. Embark on your Singapore adventure with confidence, and explore studio apartments for rent, no agent included, from MetroResidences. Start your journey to finding the perfect home in Singapore with us today!