Micro Apartments
Smart, affordable studios and compact apartments in the Pacific Northwest's most walkable neighborhoods — less space, more life.
What Is a Micro Apartment?
A micro apartment is a compact, self-contained unit — typically between 150 and 400 square feet — designed to maximize every inch of space. Each unit includes a private bathroom, a kitchen or kitchenette, and a combined living and sleeping area.
They've become a popular housing option in cities like Seattle and Portland, where demand for affordable, well-located housing far outpaces supply. Think of it as a studio, distilled to its essentials.
Who Lives in Micro Apartments?
Young Professionals
Prioritize location and walkability over square footage — live close to work and nightlife without the high rent.
Students
Affordable private housing near UW, Seattle U, Portland State, and other PNW campuses.
Minimalists
Less stuff, less cleaning, less rent. Micro living is intentional living — keep what matters, skip what doesn't.
Budget-Conscious Renters
Get your own place — not a shared room — at a price point that makes sense for a single income.
Why Choose a Micro Apartment?
Lower Rent
Micro apartments typically cost 20-40% less than standard studios in the same neighborhood, freeing up your budget for everything else.
Better Locations
Micro buildings are concentrated in walkable, transit-rich neighborhoods — Capitol Hill, Fremont, the Pearl District, and downtown cores.
Lower Utility Costs
Less space to heat, cool, and light. Utility bills in a micro apartment are noticeably lower than in a conventional unit.
Simpler Living
A smaller space means less to clean, less to furnish, and less to maintain — spend your time on what actually matters to you.
What to Expect
Efficient Layouts
Open floor plans with multi-purpose areas. Living, sleeping, and working zones designed to flow naturally without wasted space.
Private Kitchen & Bath
Every unit includes its own bathroom and kitchen or kitchenette — this isn't a dorm room or a shared living situation.
Built-In Storage
Closets, shelving, and cabinetry designed to maximize vertical space. Many units also include additional building storage.
Shared Amenities
Rooftop decks, lounges, coworking spaces, and shared kitchens extend your living space well beyond your front door.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How small is a micro apartment?
Micro apartments typically range from 150 to 400 square feet. They're compact but complete — each unit includes a private bathroom, kitchen or kitchenette, and a combined living/sleeping area. Smart design and built-in storage make the space feel larger than the numbers suggest.
Do micro apartments have full kitchens?
Most micro apartments include a kitchenette with a compact refrigerator, cooktop or range, and a sink. Some units feature full-size appliances. Every Arboreal micro unit has enough kitchen space to prepare meals at home.
What's the difference between a micro apartment and a studio?
A standard studio is typically 400-600 square feet with a separate kitchen area. Micro apartments are generally under 400 square feet with a more integrated layout. Both are self-contained units with private bathrooms — the main difference is size and rent.
Are micro apartments worth it?
If you value location over space, absolutely. Micro apartments let you live in walkable, transit-connected neighborhoods at 20-40% less than a standard studio in the same area. You get your own private space without roommates or a long commute.
Do micro apartments allow pets?
Pet policies vary by property. Many of our buildings welcome cats, and some allow small dogs. Check individual listings for specific policies, or contact our leasing team if you have questions about a particular property.
What shared amenities do micro apartment buildings have?
Micro apartment buildings often offer generous shared spaces to complement compact units — rooftop decks, communal lounges, coworking areas, shared kitchens, bike storage, on-site laundry, and package lockers. These shared amenities effectively extend your living area.
Ready to Go Micro?
Browse our available units to find compact apartments in your preferred neighborhood, or get in touch to learn more about micro living.