Studio vs 2BR+ Apartments in Jakarta: A Guide for Expatriates
Are you an expatriate moving to Jakarta for work? You’re not alone—expats continue to flood Central and South Jakarta, seeking convenience, community, and comfort. As you explore your options, one common question arises:
Should you choose a studio apartment or go bigger with a 1–4 BR unit?
Let’s break it down—with insights, neighborhood recommendations, and how Richwell Property can help.
Why Many Expats Choose Studio Apartments?
Many expats, especially singles or short-term workers, find studio apartments ideal for several reason, with pros and cons. Here we compile some of it:
| 👍 Why Studio Apartments Are Popular with Expats | 👎 But Studios Aren’t for Everyone |
|---|---|
| ✅ Strategic Location Often located in central areas like Sudirman, Kuningan, or Thamrin—close to work, malls, and public transit. |
❌ Limited Space Studios range from 28–44 sqm, which may feel cramped for those working from home or hosting guests. |
| ✅ Lower Costs More affordable rent, utility savings, and minimal furnishing make it budget-friendly. |
❌ Less Privacy With no separate rooms, it can be hard to separate living, working, and resting zones. |
| ✅ Easy Maintenance Smaller space is easier to clean, and most buildings provide repair and upkeep services. |
❌ Storage and Parking Limited space for belongings and often not enough parking slots available in central complexes. |
While studio apartments offer a compact and convenient lifestyle, they aren’t always the best fit for everyone—especially for expats planning a longer stay or relocating with family. As your needs evolve, you might find yourself looking for more than just the basics.
Read also : Short-Term Rental in Jakarta: Is It Worth It for Expatriates?
Whether it’s for comfort, flexibility, or simply more space to live and work, larger apartment types like 2BR, 3BR, or even 4BR units can offer a better balance between practicality and lifestyle.
When to Choose a 2BR, 3BR, or 4BR Apartment
Larger apartments might be a better fit if:
- You’re relocating with a spouse, kids, or sharing with colleagues.
- You need a dedicated workspace at home.
- You enjoy entertaining or cooking regularly.
- You prefer privacy and more room to relax.
These units usually come with separate bedrooms, spacious kitchens, balconies, and sometimes even maid rooms or extra bathrooms. Of course, the price is higher—but many expats find it worth the investment for long-term comfort.
Looking for 3BR Apartment for considerations, check out Anandamaya Residences.
Once you’ve decided on the type of apartment that suits your needs—whether it’s a compact studio or a spacious 3-bedroom unit—the next big question is where to live.
Jakarta is a sprawling city, and the neighborhood you choose can significantly affect your daily routine, lifestyle, and overall comfort. For expats, especially those new to Indonesia, living in the right area can make all the difference in easing cultural adjustment and staying connected to international amenities.
| Neighborhood | Key Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Permata Hijau | – Ideal for Korean expats and families – Quiet, green, and near international schools – Excellent for 2–4BR units |
– Fewer studio options – Premium pricing in some areas |
| Kemang | – Trendy and social – Full of restaurants, bars, and cafes – Good mix of apartment types |
– Frequent traffic jams – Prone to flooding during rainy season |
| Sudirman & Kuningan | – Close to offices, embassies, and malls – Great for business professionals – Convenient access to MRT/LRT |
– High rental costs – Limited green space |
| Pondok Indah | – Suburban feel with upscale malls – Family-friendly and spacious – Excellent facilities and schools |
– Farther from the central business district – Longer commute times |
What the Market Looks Like
In recent months, demand for rentals in Jakarta has been rising—especially in central and south areas. Apartments with good amenities, modern designs, and flexible lease terms are in high demand. Whether you’re looking for a studio or something bigger, it’s smart to start your search early.
How Richwell Property Can Help You
At Richwell Property, we focus on helping expatriates find the right apartment in Jakarta. Whether you’re considering a studio in the city center or a spacious 3BR for your family, we provide:
- Curated listings in expat-friendly neighborhoods
- Personal consultations to match your budget and needs
- Support with contracts, viewings, and move-in logistics
- Bilingual service for easy communication
We understand how overwhelming it can be to settle into a new country. That’s why we’re here to guide you—not just as agents, but as your relocation partner. Just drop a call, we more than happy to help.
