What is a Junior 4 Apartment in New York City?

Apartment hunting in New York City is a formidable task.

Confusing terms can complicate the process.

One common question is: “What’s the difference between a 2 bedroom and a junior 4 apartment?”

Keep reading to find that answer!

• What is a Junior 4 Apartment?
• A Typical Junior 4 Apartment Floor Plan
• Advantages of a Junior 4
• Disadvantages of a Junior 4

What is a Junior 4 Apartment?

New York City regulations state that a legal bedroom must have a dimension of 8 X 8 with an 8’ ceiling and have at least 1 window. It must have access to a bathroom without the need to pass through another bedroom.

This understanding is important in considering whether a junior 4 is sufficient for your living needs. 

Co-ops and condos may list their apartments as junior 4s. Some junior 4 apartments are listed as 2 bedrooms while others are listed as a 1 bedroom.

So, what makes the difference?

The 2-bedroom description may technically be true; however, the second bedroom is significantly smaller than the master bedroom.

This difference in size is related to the original layout.

At one time, the junior four had 4 distinct rooms: a bedroom, a living room, a kitchen, and a formal dining room. These types of apartments are commonly found in pre-war buildings. During this time period, formal dining rooms were considered essential.

Today many of those formal dining rooms, though they open off the kitchen, have been converted into a separate space for uses other than dining.

A junior 4 that is advertised as a 1-bedroom apartment will include an alcove area with windows located near the kitchen.

Some owners may still use this area for dining while others use it as an office space. Regardless, it has not been closed off as a separate room.

When a junior 4 is advertised as a 2-bedroom, the owner has taken steps to convert the formal dining room area to a small second bedroom or office space. If it is identified as a second bedroom, it should meet the criteria listed by the Real Estate Board of New York. 

A Typical Junior 4 Apartment Floor Plan

Is a junior 4 right for you?

There are advantages and disadvantages to owning a junior 4.

Here are some thoughts to consider as you navigate the apartment hunting process.

Advantages of a Junior 4

1. When comparing a traditional 2-bedroom to a junior 4 apartment, the latter may be more budget-friendly if the size of the space isn’t a major concern. The lower monthly maintenance fees also make the junior 4 more appealing. 
2. A 1-bedroom junior 4 is more valuable than a typical one-bedroom apartment that does not offer an additional living space or the option to be converted into a 2-bedroom. A 2-bedroom junior 4 may be sufficient for a family with one or two small children or for adults needing a separate office space. 
3. Thinking long-term, if subletting is permitted, a junior 4 will provide more income when you are ready to move out and rent the space. This is particularly true if the junior 4 you are considering has an ideal layout: a completely separate second bedroom with a small closet and a door that leads to the living room (as opposed to the kitchen). 

Disadvantages of a Junior 4

Consider these concerns as you evaluate your apartment options:

1. The junior 4 may not be for you if you intend on growing your family in the near future. 
2. Closet space is limited and will most likely not be available in the converted office/2nd bedroom area.
3. The converted dining room space is limited. A queen-size bed, desk, and armoire would present a tight fit. Consider the small bedroom as suitable for a twin or bunk beds with a desk and a chair.  

Ready to Make Some Changes?

Armed with this knowledge, you may be ready to start your search or make a change. If you would like to buy or sell a junior 4, call or text Claudia Looi today: 347-612-2964.

I’m ready to support you in this adventure.

Sources: 

REBNY

Columbia University Libraries

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