“Efficiency” and “studio” often mean the same thing: one main room with a bathroom. Some landlords use “efficiency” for the smallest studios, or for units where the kitchen is a small strip along one wall. There is no single legal rule that sets the difference.
Because the word is loose, do not rely on it. Look at the numbers and the photos instead. Ask for the floor plan, the square footage and what the kitchen includes.
Here are three questions that clear it up fast:
- Is there a separate bedroom? If not, it is a studio or efficiency.
- Is there a full kitchen with a full-size fridge and a stove?
- What is the square footage?
Centro Studio Homes calls its homes studios. The listing shows a full kitchen with quartz counters and a red GALANZ fridge, plus a microwave. Centro does not publish square footage, so ask the leasing office for the size of the home you plan to tour.
Read more about how to judge a studio on the studio apartments page.
