Bengaluru's real estate market is changing fast. In 2025, one type of apartment is becoming more popular than ever—1RK homes. These are compact units with one room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Students and IT professionals are snapping them up because they're cheaper, easier to maintain, and close to colleges and tech parks.

What is a 1RK Apartment?

A 1RK (one-room kitchen) is a small apartment where the bedroom and living area are combined into one space. It also has a separate kitchen and bathroom. These units are smaller than 1BHK flats and usually measure between 250 and 450 square feet.

Why Students Are Choosing 1RKs

For students in Bengaluru, 1RKs offer what they need—affordability, privacy, and convenience.

1. Lower rents: In areas like Marathahalli and Kasavanahalli, 1RKs start from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 if unfurnished.
2. Closer to colleges: These apartments are often near top coaching centers and universities, saving time and travel costs.
3. Privacy over PGs: Unlike hostels or PGs, students don't have to share rooms or follow strict rules. They get their own kitchen and space to study.
4. Easy to maintain: A smaller flat is easier to clean and manage.

Why IT Professionals Are Renting 1RKs

Many young professionals working in tech parks are choosing 1RKs as a practical housing option.

1. Affordable: Rent for 2BHK flats in areas like Indiranagar can reach ₹80,000. For someone just starting out, a ₹15,000–₹20,000 1RK makes more sense.
2. Close to offices: Locations like Whitefield, Electronic City, and Sarjapur Road have heavy traffic. Staying nearby cuts commute time.
3. Weekday homes: Some people rent a 1RK close to work during the week and return to their main home on weekends.
4. More freedom: Living alone in a 1RK means you don't have to share your space or follow someone else's rules.

Where 1RK Demand is Growing

These apartments are popular in several parts of Bengaluru, especially where tech companies and colleges are located:

1. Whitefield, Electronic City, ORR, and Sarjapur Road: Close to IT parks, well connected by metro and buses.
2. Indiranagar and Koramangala: Even though they're premium areas, older or terrace-based 1RKs are available for ₹15,000–₹20,000.
3. North Bengaluru: Behind Manyata Tech Park, new gated projects like NR Greenwoods are selling 1RKs for ₹70–₹80 lakh. These come fully furnished and have clubhouses.

Rent and Pricing (June 2025 Update)

Here’s a quick look at what 1RKs cost in different parts of the city:

Some luxury 1RKs—like those in Bharatiya Leela Residences—even go up to ₹2 crore.

Why Not PGs or Hostels?

1RKs are becoming the smarter choice over PGs or shared housing:

1. Privacy: You don't have to share a room or bathroom.
2. Freedom: No fixed meal times or curfews.
3. Better facilities: Many new buildings offer clubhouses, gyms, and 24/7 security.
4. Your own space: You can cook, decorate, and live how you like.

A Smart Choice for Investors Too

If you're looking to invest in Bengaluru real estate, 1RK apartments can offer strong returns:

1. High rental demand: Students and IT workers are always looking for such homes.
2. Steady income: With low vacancy and good rents, investors earn steady monthly returns.
3. Lower investment entry: Cheaper than bigger apartments but still profitable.
4. Rental yield: Especially high in IT zones like Whitefield, Marathahalli, and near Manyata Tech Park.

Even large projects like Birla Evara in Kodathi, off Sarjapur Road, though not offering 1RKs, show how strategic locations near IT corridors boost demand for compact homes.

Final Take

Bengaluru's growing population, high property prices, and busy tech life are all reasons why 1RK apartments are booming in 2025. They're not just a cheaper option—they're a smarter one for many. Whether you're a student, a young techie, or a first-time investor, a well-placed 1RK can give you good value, low stress, and solid returns.