Rising Rents Push Professionals Toward 1RK Studios in Bengaluru’s IT Hotspots

Real estate experts observed that Bengaluru is witnessing a surge in demand for 1RK (one-room kitchen) apartments, with both students and working professionals increasingly favouring these compact living spaces. A mix of affordability, lifestyle flexibility, and a response to the city's rising rental costs has been driving this trend—particularly in areas well-connected by metro or bus and close to IT hubs.

From Niche to Necessity

According to Kiran Kumar, vice president at Hanu Reddy Realty, 1RKs were once a rare sight in the Bengaluru housing landscape. However, steep hikes in rental prices across key localities have made these smaller homes a popular alternative. They are now being chosen not just for their cost-effectiveness but also for being low-maintenance compared to larger configurations like 2BHK and 3BHK homes.

Rental Affordability Draws Tenants

Real estate brokers highlighted that 1RK apartments on the city's outskirts, especially near tech corridors, are priced in the ₹50–60 lakh range and often available on rent for under ₹20,000 per month. Even in central locations like Indiranagar and Koramangala, terrace-based 1RKs are being rented between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000, with some even offering basic amenities such as lifts and gymnasiums. In contrast, a 2BHK in Indiranagar can go up to ₹80,000 per month, making 1RKs a far more economical option.

Investors Eye Compact Units in North Bengaluru

In the northern suburbs, especially around Manyata Tech Park, investors are said to be actively purchasing 1RK units. Projects like NR Greenwoods are reportedly seeing swift sales of their fully furnished 1RK homes, priced between ₹70–80 lakh. With occupation certificates already in place, these homes are being marketed as high-yield rental investments aimed at IT professionals in the vicinity, according to Manjesh Rao of BlueBroker.

Limited Supply, Growing Demand

The supply of 1RK units in Bengaluru remains limited, despite growing demand. Industry insiders noted that most developers continue to prioritise mid-sized or large apartments, leaving a significant gap in the small-apartment segment. In high-demand zones such as Whitefield and Electronic City, furnished studio apartments are reportedly fetching monthly rents between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000.

Rao further pointed out that many professionals are using these studio units as “weekday homes” to avoid gruelling daily commutes. They typically return to their family homes over weekends, balancing cost and convenience.

Listings on property portals like 99acres show current studio apartment options such as Sattva Lumiman in Dobbaalapura (₹36 lakh), Provident Bottanico in Whitefield (₹46 lakh), Brigade Cornerstone Eutopia in Varthur (₹65 lakh), and ultra-premium options like Bharatiya Leela Residence in north Bengaluru (₹2 crore).

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers are advised to consult certified real estate professionals before making any property-related decisions.