Though it seems like a straightforward measurement, 1,000 square feet can feel either tiny or spacious depending on where you live. In hot urban markets, an apartment this size may be considered palatial. In areas where there’s plenty of space to build, it may seem oddly small. From luxurious, urban apartments to an adorable country ranch, here are a few rentals on the market right now that show off what 1,000 square feet can do.
New York, New York
High-end amenities in Lower Manhattan
$5,995/month
As you might suspect, 1,000-square-feet in a new building in Manhattan is priced as high as a mansion in the ‘burbs. But at least this two-bedroom rental comes with plenty of amenities. There’s a roof garden, a residents-only member lounge, a valet/concierge service, yoga classes, and a private screening room. The real luxury is in its location in Lower Manhattan, which is rich in jobs, entertainment options, waterfront views, and that unmistakable New York City energy.
Dallas, Texas
$1,240–$2,320/month
A construction boom in Dallas has lead to plenty of new apartments (along with all the things that come with them, like Whole Foods and high-end shopping) within the city limits. Since Dallas has far more buildable land than New York City, prices are much, much more down-to-earth, comparatively speaking. Depending on your lease, you can get a two-bedroom apartment for under $2,000 in Dallas’ trendy Midtown neighborhood. The Neo Midtown Apartments come in near that price, depending on layout and lease. Amenities like a dog park, a salt water pool with a fire feature, and an outdoor kitchen add to the value, while also giving you plenty of opportunities to get to know your neighbors for a true community feel.
Atlanta, Georgia
Art Deco–era community in a peaceful setting
$1,595/month
You won’t easily find a 1,000-square-foot rental in Atlanta’s very-in-demand downtown, but you can find such a place to call your own near the city’s upscale Buckhead neighborhood. This two-bedroom, two-bath apartment is in a quiet corner of the city and close to one of its most beautiful green spaces, Atlanta Memorial Park. The interiors are spacious and updated, and the exteriors have plenty of old-fashioned charm with details that date back to the building’s beginning in 1924. Overall, it’s a great fit for someone who appreciates character and wants the peaceful vibe of the suburbs while still being close to all the city has to offer.
Chicago, Illinois
High-rise pad in a walkable neighborhood
$2,370–2,800/month
Tower-style buildings in cities are often in locations where driving is a must (or in office districts that shut down after 6 p.m.). The community at 100 West Chestnut Rentals is a welcome departure from this, with a location right on the borders of the highly-sought-after River North, Gold Coast, and Old Town neighborhoods. Basically, you can walk to anything you could possibly want—from the trendy pub/arcade Headquarters Beercade to museums. You’ll enjoy views galore from the community’s rooftop lounge and, during Chicago’s notorious winters, you can take refuge in the building’s indoor pool and hot tub. Here, you’ll have a two-bedroom, one-bathroom that offers room for entertaining the new friends you’ll make in such a fun area.
Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
City chic in a suburban setting
$1,795–$1,855/month
Though Philadelphia is experiencing a boom, it’s not the only place to be in Pennsylvania. The state has no shortage of lovely suburban towns that offer plenty of dining and entertaining options, just on a smaller scale (and usually with comparatively cheaper rents). Phoenixville is one of those places. In this historic yet artsy town, you can live in a gorgeous two-bedroom, two-bath apartment in the new Riverworks community. Each unit has very design-savvy accents that you don’t ordinarily see in a rental, like dark cabinetry, copper-and-black pendant lights and cool-toned wood floors. This attention to detail extends to the clubhouse, a contemporary space with garage-style doors, a wood plank ceiling, and modern furniture. The extras—a pet salon, a coffee bar, and a media room—are also something you don’t usually find in the ‘burbs.
Hoboken, New Jersey
Sleek two-bedroom just outside NYC
$3,692–$4,180/month
Manhattan’s sky-high rents have driven would-be renters to neighborhoods across the Hudson River. This has lead to climbing rental prices in places like Hoboken, New Jersey. A bright and airy two-bedroom, two-bath in the luxury building The Rivington is still priced less than similar digs across the Hudson, though the difference is in the hundreds rather than thousands. But you do get nice frills here: views of the skyline, private garage parking (a must in a commuter hub like Hoboken), and a courtyard with an outdoor kitchen and lounge.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Modern downtown loft near chic cafes
$1,440–$2,500/month
Don’t let the “studio” designation of the 1,000-square-foot tower studio at Market Square Place fool you: The unit we’re talking about is a true urban loft space. Though you won’t have a traditional bedroom, the roomy floor plan gives you plenty of options for furniture placement while maximizing light. Its downtown location puts you near all the dining and entertainment in Pittsburgh’s cultural district, and all the options at Market Square are just downstairs. From the artisanal cafe Bluebird Kitchen to the historic Original Oyster House, a great night out starts at home.
Lexington, Kentucky
Resort-like living in the country
$848–$1,460/month
Retreat to the heart of Kentucky’s horse country (which is also a great place to hunt for antiques) with this comfy, two-bedroom, two-bath at Chinoe Creek in Lexington. This rental community lets you enjoy the scenic landscape without having to deal with maintenance. Most units have terraces or balconies, and common areas include volleyball and tennis courts, a fitness center, dog park, and on-site car wash stations. This apartment is one of the largest in the community, giving you plenty of room to stow the great vintage finds you’ll come across on your weekend travels. A mint julep cup collection would be very appropriate.
