2BR Space Calculator
Use this calculator to see if an apartment meets minimum requirements for a 2BR living space. Based on Australian standards, bedrooms must be at least 7 sq m (75 sq ft) with proper ventilation.
Space Assessment Results
- Bedrooms: 7+ sq m each
- Living area: 18+ sq m
- Total size: 60+ sq m
When you’re searching for a new place to live, you’ve probably seen listings for a 2BR apartment and wondered what it actually means. It’s not just a fancy way of saying "two bedrooms." A 2BR apartment is a specific type of living space designed for small families, roommates, or anyone who needs a little more room than a studio but doesn’t need a full house. In cities like Sydney, where space is tight and demand is high, knowing exactly what a 2BR apartment includes can save you time, money, and frustration.
What Does "2BR" Actually Stand For?
"2BR" stands for "two bedrooms." That’s it. But that’s not the whole story. A 2BR apartment typically includes:
- Two separate bedrooms
- One bathroom (sometimes two)
- A combined living and dining area
- A kitchen (either open or closed off)
- A balcony or outdoor space (common in newer buildings)
It doesn’t include a garage, a backyard, or extra storage unless it’s specifically listed. Some landlords might call a unit with a den or study a "2.5BR," but unless there’s a fully enclosed, door-closing second bedroom, it’s still technically a 2BR.
Who Is a 2BR Apartment For?
Not every 2BR apartment is the same, but they’re usually built for one of three groups:
- Roommates - Two people splitting rent and chores. A 2BR gives each person their own space, which cuts down on tension.
- Small families - A couple with one child, or even a couple expecting a baby. The extra room can become a nursery, a home office, or a guest room.
- Remote workers - If you need a quiet place to work from home, a second bedroom doubles as an office. No more working from the couch.
In Sydney, where average rent for a 1BR apartment is around $650 per week, a 2BR often costs just $100-$150 more. That makes it a smart upgrade for anyone who values privacy or plans to stay longer than a year.
How Big Is a Typical 2BR Apartment?
Size varies a lot depending on the building, location, and year it was built. In older Sydney buildings from the 1970s and 80s, a 2BR might be as small as 60 square meters (about 650 sq ft). Newer developments in areas like Surry Hills or Parramatta often offer 75-90 square meters (800-970 sq ft), with higher ceilings and better layouts.
Here’s what you can expect in a standard 2BR layout:
- Master bedroom: 10-12 sq m (108-129 sq ft)
- Second bedroom: 8-10 sq m (86-108 sq ft)
- Living area: 18-25 sq m (194-270 sq ft)
- Kitchen: 6-8 sq m (65-86 sq ft)
- Bathroom: 4-6 sq m (43-65 sq ft)
That’s enough room to fit a queen bed in each bedroom, a small dining table, and still have space to move around. If you’re looking at a unit under 60 sq m, ask if the second bedroom can fit a bed - some are so small they’re better used as storage or a home office.
2BR vs. 1BR vs. Studio: What’s the Real Difference?
It’s easy to get confused between apartment types. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Studio | 1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 0 (sleeping area is part of main room) | 1 | 2 |
| Typical Size | 30-45 sq m | 45-60 sq m | 60-90 sq m |
| Best For | Singles, students | Couples, solo professionals | Roommates, small families |
| Average Weekly Rent (Sydney) | $500-$600 | $600-$700 | $700-$850 |
| Storage Space | Limited | Minimal | More options (closets, spare room) |
Going from a studio to a 1BR adds privacy. Going from a 1BR to a 2BR adds flexibility. That extra room can turn into a gym, a hobby space, or even a home office you can close the door on - something most 1BRs don’t allow.
What to Watch Out For in a 2BR Listing
Not all 2BRs are created equal. Some landlords label anything with two rooms as a 2BR, even if one is a tiny closet. Here’s what to check before signing a lease:
- Door on the second bedroom? If there’s no door, it’s not a real bedroom. It might be a "den," "study," or "flex space."
- Window in the second room? In Australia, a legal bedroom must have a window for ventilation and emergency escape.
- Is the bathroom shared or ensuite? Some 2BRs have one bathroom shared by two rooms. Others have an ensuite off the master.
- Is the kitchen separate? Open-plan kitchens are common, but if it’s just a kitchenette with a mini-fridge and microwave, you might be stuck with takeaway meals.
- What’s included? Some units come with appliances. Others don’t. Ask if the washing machine is in-unit or shared.
One real estate agent in Bondi told me last month that 40% of the 2BR listings she showed clients had misleading descriptions. Always ask for floor plans - they’re usually available online or from the agent.
Why 2BR Apartments Are in High Demand
Sydney’s rental market is tight. Vacancy rates are below 1%, and demand for 2BR units is growing faster than supply. Why?
- More people are working from home - The pandemic changed how we use space. A second room isn’t a luxury anymore - it’s a necessity.
- Young couples are delaying having kids - But when they do, they need space fast. A 2BR is the smallest unit that can grow with them.
- Shared housing is trending - Roommates are splitting rent to afford better locations. A 2BR is the sweet spot for two people.
According to CoreLogic’s 2025 report, 2BR apartments in inner Sydney saw rent growth of 8.7% last year - the highest of any apartment type. That means if you’re looking to rent, you’ll need to act fast. If you’re buying, it’s a solid long-term investment.
What Comes Next After a 2BR?
Many people see a 2BR as a stepping stone. Once your family grows, or your income increases, you might move to a 3BR, a townhouse, or even a house. But plenty of people stay in 2BRs for years - especially in the city center, where space is limited and transport is easy.
Some even turn their second bedroom into a rental room. If your lease allows subletting, you could rent out the second room to a student or remote worker and offset half your rent. That’s a smart move if you’re on a tight budget.
Final Thoughts: Is a 2BR Right for You?
A 2BR apartment isn’t the biggest option out there, but it’s often the most practical. It gives you room to breathe without the high cost of a larger home. It’s ideal if you need privacy, plan to stay put for a few years, or want to share the space with someone else.
If you’re unsure, ask yourself:
- Do I need my own room?
- Will I need a home office or guest space in the next 2-3 years?
- Can I afford the rent without stretching too thin?
If you answered yes to any of those, a 2BR is probably your best bet. Don’t rush - look at a few options. Compare floor plans. Talk to people living in similar units. The right 2BR can make your life easier for years to come.
Is a 2BR apartment the same as a 2BHK?
Yes, essentially. "2BHK" stands for "two bedrooms, hall, and kitchen," a term commonly used in India and some parts of Southeast Asia. In Australia, we say "2BR" and assume the living area (hall) and kitchen are included. So a 2BR in Sydney is functionally the same as a 2BHK - two bedrooms plus a living space and kitchen.
Can a 2BR apartment fit a family of three?
Yes, many families of three live comfortably in 2BR apartments, especially if the children are young. One parent sleeps in the master bedroom, and the child shares the second bedroom. As kids get older, some families use the second room as a shared space or convert part of the living area into a sleeping nook. It’s tight, but doable - and common in cities like Sydney where larger homes are expensive.
Do all 2BR apartments have two bathrooms?
No. Most 2BR apartments have one bathroom. Units with two bathrooms are usually more expensive and found in newer luxury developments or larger units. If two bathrooms are important to you, look for listings that specifically say "ensuite" or "two bathrooms." Don’t assume it’s included.
Are 2BR apartments a good investment?
Yes, especially in cities with high rental demand like Sydney. 2BR apartments have consistently higher occupancy rates than studios or 1BRs because they appeal to roommates and small families. They also hold their value better over time. If you’re buying, aim for units in well-connected suburbs with good schools and public transport - those are the ones that rent out fastest and appreciate the most.
What’s the minimum size for a legal bedroom in Australia?
According to the National Construction Code, a bedroom must be at least 7 square meters (75 sq ft) and have a window that opens to the outside. The window must be large enough to allow for emergency escape. Many landlords ignore this, but if you’re renting, it’s your right to have a room that meets these standards. Always check before signing a lease.