How Big Is 1,500 Square Feet?

A 1,500 square foot apartment is roughly the size of a three-bedroom unit with one to two bathrooms, a kitchen, a living room, and sometimes a dining area or office space. It’s larger than most U.S. apartments, offering enough room for a small family or roommates to live comfortably.

This guide will help you understand what 1,500 square feet looks like, how to measure it, and how to make the most of that space.

1,500 Square Foot Apartment Guide

How Do You Calculate 1,500 Square Feet?

To confirm your apartment’s size, measure each room individually and add them together.

Steps to calculate square footage:

• Measure each room – length × width
• Add all areas – include living room, bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, closets
• Exclude non-livable spaces – balconies, patios, exterior storage usually don’t count
• Sum the totals – the combined area should equal about 1,500 square feet

Quick Reference Table

What Does 1,500 Square Feet Look Like?

A 1,500-square-foot apartment feels spacious compared to the U.S. average apartment size of ~908 sq ft.

Common layouts include:

• 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms
• 2 bedrooms + office + 2 bathrooms
• Open-plan living room + kitchen + dining area

Here are a few examples that might help you visualize the size of a 1,500-square-foot home:

• Tennis Court: A full tennis court is ~2,808 square feet. Your apartment is just over half that size.
• NBA Court: An NBA court is ~4,700 square feet. A 1,500 square foot apartment is about one-third that size.
• Garage Space: A two-car garage averages ~500 square feet. A 1,500 square foot apartment equals three garages.

How to Decorate a 1,500 Square Foot Apartment

Even though a 1,500 square foot apartment is fairly roomy, smart design helps maximize the space. Here are some tips to help you decorate your 1,500 square foot apartment.

Define Your Style

Choose a cohesive style (modern, minimalist, bohemian, traditional) and layer in personal touches like art, books, or keepsakes.

Plan Layouts by Zones

Divide the apartment into dedicated zones:

• Living area for relaxing/entertaining
• Dining area near the kitchen
• Bedrooms for rest
• Optional office or guest room

Invest In Multifunctional Furniture

Pieces like sofa beds, fold-out dining tables, and ottomans with storage add function without taking up extra square footage.

Choose a Color Scheme

For a more open and airy feel, light and neutral shades are your best bet. They make rooms feel more spacious and bright. If you're after a bit more pizzazz, don't shy away from bold colors. They can really make a statement, adding depth and a burst of character to your space.

Maximize Natural Light

• Use sheer curtains or light-filtering shades
• Place mirrors opposite windows to reflect light
• Choose lighter paint colors to make rooms feel larger

Add Greenery and Textiles

Plants improve air quality and bring vibrancy. Rugs, curtains, and layered fabrics add texture and warmth.

Is 1,500 Square Feet Big Enough for a Family?

Yes, a 1,500 square foot apartment can comfortably house a small family. Typically, this size offers:

• 3 bedrooms (ideal for parents, child, and guest/office)
• 1–2 bathrooms
• Shared living and dining spaces

Compared to smaller apartments, 1,500 square feet allows for more privacy, storage, and flexibility.

How Does 1,500 Square Feet Compare to Other Apartments?

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting with Apartment List

By now, you can see that a 1,500 square foot apartment provides plenty of room to live comfortably!

Ready to find the perfect 1,500-square-foot apartment for your next move? Save time by taking Apartment List’s personalized quiz and allow us to find your ideal match based on your preferences!

FAQs About 1,500 Square Foot Apartments

How many bedrooms are in a 1,500 square foot apartment?

Most 1,500 sq ft apartments include three bedrooms, but layouts vary. Some may have two bedrooms plus a dedicated office or den.

Is 1,500 square feet too big for one person?

It depends on lifestyle. For a single renter, it’s more space than average, but it’s ideal if you want a home office, guest room, or extra storage.

How much rent does a 1,500 square foot apartment cost?

Rent varies by location. In August 2025, the U.S. median is around $1,400/month, though metro areas like New York or San Francisco can exceed $4,000.

Is 1,500 square feet considered small or large?

Compared to the national apartment average (~900 sq ft), 1,500 sq ft is considered large and family-friendly.

How do I make 1,500 square feet feel bigger?

Use light colors, maximize natural light, and incorporate multifunctional furniture. Removing clutter and defining zones can also make the space feel larger.