2-Bedroom Apartment Size Checker
Check if your apartment meets Australian minimum space requirements for 2-bedroom units. Input measurements in m² or sq ft to verify if rooms comply with national standards.
Enter measurements for each room below. The tool compares your inputs against minimum standards mentioned in the Average Size of 2‑Bedroom Apartments in Australia guide.
Australian Minimum Standards (2025)
- Master Bedroom: Minimum 12 m² (≈ 129 sq ft)
- Secondary Bedroom: Minimum 10 m² (≈ 108 sq ft)
- Living Area: Minimum 30% of total net area
- Total Area: Minimum 70 m² (≈ 750 sq ft) for standard units
Source: Australian Building Code & 2024-2025 National Apartment Survey
When looking for a place to call home, a 2 bedroom apartment is a popular choice for couples and small families. It typically provides two private sleeping rooms, a living area, kitchen, and often a balcony, all within a single unit.
The first question most renters ask is: how big are most 2 bedroom apartments? The answer depends on where you live, the building type, and local regulations. This guide breaks down the typical size ranges across Australia's major cities, explains the factors that shape those numbers, and gives you a quick checklist for sizing the space that fits your lifestyle.
What Does "Size" Really Mean?
In real estate, size is usually measured in square footage (sq ft) or square metres (m²). Square footage counts the floor area inside the walls, while some listings add balcony or terrace space as “gross” area. For a clear comparison, we’ll stick to net usable area - the parts you can actually walk on inside the apartment.
National Benchmarks for 2‑Bedroom Units
According to the Australian Building Code and recent market surveys, a “standard” 2‑bedroom unit in Australia falls between 70 m² and 95 m² (≈ 750-1,020 sq ft). That range covers most low‑rise walk‑up blocks, mid‑rise suburbs, and many high‑rise towers built after 2010.
City‑by‑City Size Snapshot (2025)
| City | Average Size (m²) | Average Size (sq ft) | Typical Building Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 78 | 840 | High‑rise (15‑30 storeys) |
| Melbourne | 81 | 870 | Mid‑rise & high‑rise |
| Brisbane | 84 | 904 | Low‑rise suburbs |
| Perth | 76 | 818 | Mixed‑type |
| Adelaide | 82 | 882 | Low‑rise & townhouses |
These figures come from the 2024‑2025 National Apartment Survey, which sampled over 3,500 listings across the five cities. Notice that Sydney’s average is slightly lower than Melbourne’s despite higher land costs - developers often trade space for location premium.
Key Factors That Influence Apartment Size
- Location density. Inner‑city towers maximize unit count, shaving off a few square metres per unit.
- Construction era. Pre‑2000 buildings tend to have larger floor plates, while post‑2010 designs prioritize efficiency.
- Target market. Luxury developments may offer 100 m²+ units with split‑level layouts, whereas student‑focused complexes keep them under 70 m².
- Zoning rules. Local councils set minimum net lettable area; for example, Sydney Council requires at least 55 m² for a two‑bedroom unit.
- Design trends. Open‑plan living spaces can make a 75 m² unit feel larger than a compartmentalised 80 m² floor plan.
Typical Layout Breakdown
Understanding how the space is allocated helps you judge whether a unit feels spacious or cramped. Below is a common split for a 78 m² (≈ 845 sq ft) Sydney 2‑bedroom:
- Master bedroom: 15 m² (≈ 160 sq ft) with built‑in wardrobe.
- Second bedroom: 11 m² (≈ 118 sq ft), often used as a study.
- Living/dining area: 22 m² (≈ 237 sq ft), open to the kitchen.
- Kitchen: 7 m² (≈ 75 sq ft), usually a galley or L‑shape.
- Bathroom(s): 5 m² (≈ 54 sq ft) for a main bath plus a separate powder room.
- Balcony or outdoor nook: 5 m² (≈ 54 sq ft), counted as gross area.
Adjust these numbers up or down depending on the city’s average and the building’s luxury level.
How to Evaluate Size During a Viewing
Don’t rely on listed square metres alone. Walk the space with a tape measure (or a smartphone app) and check these quick ratios:
- Living area to total: Aim for at least 30% of the total net area. Anything lower feels cramped.
- Bedroom size: Minimum 12 m² for the master; 10 m² for the second bedroom.
- Bathroom count: One full bath per 70 m² is typical; if you see only one for a 95 m² unit, ask why.
- Storage space: Look for built‑in wardrobes and linen closets. Less than 4 m² of dedicated storage can be a red flag.
Rent vs. Purchase: Size Trade‑offs
If you’re renting, landlords often keep units on the smaller side to maximize cash flow. A rental 2‑bedroom in Sydney’s CBD averages 70 m² (≈ 750 sq ft) with higher rent per square metre. Buying, especially in outer suburbs, can net you a 90 m² unit for a similar price per square metre.
Future‑Proofing: Will This Size Meet Your Needs?
Think about life changes. If you plan to work from home, allocate at least 5 m² for a dedicated office nook. If you expect a child, check whether the second bedroom can comfortably hold a crib and a small wardrobe. Many developers now include flexible “dual‑purpose” rooms that can shift between office, nursery, or guest space.
Quick Size Checklist for 2‑Bedroom Hunters
- Confirm net usable area (exclude balconies unless advertised as gross).
- Check bedroom minimums: 12 m² master, 10 m² secondary.
- Ensure living area is ≥ 30% of total.
- Count bathrooms - one full bath per 70 m² is standard.
- Look for built‑in storage; <5 m² may mean extra costs.
- Consider future needs: home office, kids, pets.
Bottom Line
Across Australia, most 2‑bedroom apartments sit between 70 m² and 95 m² (≈ 750-1,020 sq ft). Sydney leans toward the lower end due to high land values, while cities like Brisbane and Adelaide edge higher thanks to more space‑friendly zoning. By understanding how size breaks down, what influences it, and using the checklist above, you can spot a well‑designed unit that feels roomy rather than cramped.
What is the typical square footage of a 2‑bedroom apartment in Sydney?
In 2025, the average net usable area for a 2‑bedroom apartment in Sydney is about 78 m², which translates to roughly 840 sq ft. Newer high‑rise towers often sit at this figure, while older low‑rise blocks can be slightly larger.
How does the size differ between renting and buying?
Renters typically see smaller units - around 70 m² in city centers - because landlords aim for higher cash flow. Buyers, especially in outer suburbs, often get 85‑95 m² for a comparable price per square metre.
Are there legal minimum sizes for 2‑bedroom apartments?
Yes. The Australian Building Code sets a minimum net lettable area of 55 m² for a two‑bedroom unit, but most modern developments exceed that minimum to stay competitive.
What should I look for in the floor plan to feel the space is larger?
Open‑plan living/dining areas that flow into the kitchen, larger master bedroom closets, and minimal interior walls create a sense of spaciousness even in a 75 m² unit.
Can I add a home office in a 2‑bedroom apartment?
Absolutely. Allocate at least 5 m² in either the living area or the second bedroom for a desk and chair. Many newer apartments now include a built‑in nook for this purpose.
