Determining the right amount of living space for a couple largely depends on their lifestyle and needs. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some general guidelines for deciding what constitutes a good square footage for two people:
Consider Your Activities and Interests
Think about how you and your partner typically spend time at home. Do you entertain frequently or have people over often? Do you have hobbies that require space like art, music, exercise equipment? Are you homebodies who mostly relax and unwind at home? Factoring in your habits and interests will help determine an ideal square footage.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Most couples will want a master bedroom and a guest room or office. Having two bedrooms gives flexibility if someone needs to sleep or work separately. Two full bathrooms are also ideal for a couple to get ready comfortably without sharing one bathroom.
Common Living Areas
Consider how much time you’ll realistically spend in common living spaces like the kitchen, living room and dining area. Will you cook elaborate meals together or mostly heat up takeout? Formal dining room or eat casually on the couch? Your lifestyle will determine what size and style of kitchen and living areas suit you best.
Outdoor Space
Having outdoor space like a patio, balcony or yard expands your usable living area. Even a small outdoor area can be useful for relaxing outside, gardening, grilling or alfresco dining. If being outdoors is important, look for square footage that includes outdoor areas.
Storage and Utility Spaces
Don’t underestimate the need for storage, closet space, laundry facilities and room for supplies. Consider how much stuff you realistically have and will accumulate. Adequate storage helps keep clutter contained. Easy access to laundry machines is also a huge convenience.
Guidelines Based on Square Footage
As a general rule of thumb, here are some guidelines based on total square footage:
- Under 600 square feet – Very small for two people except for minimalist lifestyles
- 600-900 square feet – Modest size for couples who live simply
- 900-1200 square feet – Comfortable for most couples
- 1200-1500 square feet – Spacious for two people without kids
- 1500+ square feet – Allows extra space for hobbies, interests, storage
Layout and Design
Square footage alone doesn’t necessarily mean a space will meet your needs. The layout, flow and design matter greatly too. An open concept 800 square foot apartment may feel more spacious than a closed off 1200 square foot house. Look for smart storage solutions, flexibility and quality over sheer size.
Location
In expensive urban areas, smaller spaces are the norm. In rural or suburban areas, couples have more room to spread out. Consider what typical spaces look like in your desired location when evaluating square footage. Adapting to local norms will provide more options.
Conclusion
The ideal square footage for a couple depends on your lifestyle, needs and local real estate. While 900-1500 square feet is a comfortable range for most, you can happily live in less space with the right layout and storage. Focus more on how you live day-to-day rather than fixating on total footage alone when choosing the perfect home for two.