What’s Included? Understanding ‘Furnished’ vs. ‘Unfurnished’ Apartments Abroad

Furnished vs unfurnished apartments abroad: Moving abroad as a student is exciting, but finding the right place to live? That can get overwhelming fast. One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment. It might sound simple, but the fine print often holds surprises. What’s considered “furnished” in one country may be completely different in another.

In this guide, we’ll break down the real differences, what to expect, and how to choose the right setup for your lifestyle, budget, and academic plans.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished: What’s the Basic Difference?

When searching for student housing abroad, one of the first terms you’ll come across is whether an apartment is furnished or unfurnished. While it may seem straightforward, the definitions can vary wildly depending on the country, city, or even the landlord. Understanding the basic difference between these two options is essential, not just for budgeting, but also for avoiding unexpected surprises on move-in day. Let’s break down what each term typically means and what you should look out for.

Feature	Furnished Apartment	Unfurnished Apartment
Includes furniture?	Yes, to varying degrees	No (sometimes not even basics)
Move-in ready?	Usually, yes	Requires setup time
Initial cost?	Higher rent	Lower rent but higher upfront furnishing costs
Flexibility?	Less – you must use existing furniture	More – design your space as you like

Different countries have their own norms. For instance:

• In Germany, unfurnished might mean no kitchen cabinets or ceiling lights.
• In Australia, even “furnished” might not include kitchenware.
• In Japan, furnished apartments are rare and typically found in short-term rentals only.

What Does ‘Furnished’ Actually Include?

So, what do you get when a listing says “furnished”? Unfortunately, there’s no universal checklist — and that’s where students get caught off guard. Here’s a general breakdown:

Item	Usually Included	Sometimes Included	Rarely Included
Bed & Mattress	✅	–	–
Wardrobe/Closet	✅	–	–
Sofa or Chair	✅	–	–
Study Desk & Chair	✅	✅	–
Fridge & Microwave	✅	✅	–
Washing Machine	–	✅	–
Dishes & Cutlery	–	✅	✅ (in serviced apartments)
Bedding (pillows, blankets)	–	✅	–
Wi-Fi	–	✅	–

Tip: Always ask for a complete inventory list or video walkthrough before signing anything.

What to Watch Out for in Furnished Apartments?

While furnished places are convenient, they’re not always perfect. Here are a few realities students often encounter:

1. Higher Rent

You’ll typically pay more per month, sometimes significantly more, for the convenience of moving in without buying anything.

2. Worn or Outdated Furniture

You’re not guaranteed stylish or new furniture. Some student rentals use old hand-me-downs or budget furniture that wears out fast.

3. Limited Personalisation

You usually can’t make major changes — repainting walls, adding new shelves, or even replacing curtains might be against the rules.

4. Shared Furniture in Shared Flats

If you’re in a shared apartment, expect to share couches, fridges, and even cookware. Hygiene and maintenance can be an issue.

5. Damage Deposit Deductions

Landlords may hold you responsible for damage to pre-existing furniture, even if it wasn’t in great shape when you moved in.

Also Read: 

• When to Apply for Student Accommodation: Best Timing and Tips
• Pros and Cons of Living in the USA for Students

The Real Cost of Choosing an Unfurnished Apartment

An unfurnished apartment can seem cheaper, but there’s more to it than just the rent.

1. Upfront Furnishing Costs

Buying essentials like a bed, desk, chair, and appliances adds up fast. Even budget-friendly items can cost hundreds.

Essential	Estimated Cost (USD)
Bed & Mattress	USD 300–USD 600
Desk & Chair	USD 100–USD 200
Wardrobe	USD 150–USD 300
Kitchenware	USD 50–USD 100
Fridge (if not provided)	USD 200–USD 500

2. Logistics & Time

You’ll be juggling furniture shopping, arranging delivery or transport (which may require renting a van or coordinating pickups), and assembling everything from your bed to your desk — often while trying to settle into classes, navigate a new city, and manage jet lag. It can turn your crucial first week into a chaotic mix of errands instead of easing into student life.

3. Reselling Before You Leave

Since most international students stay for a semester or a few years at most, they eventually face the hassle of reselling or disposing of bulky furniture. This often becomes a last-minute scramble during finals or right before an international move, adding unnecessary pressure to an already hectic time.

4. Unexpected Exclusions

In some countries, “unfurnished” can mean completely bare — no curtain rods, light fixtures, or even basic kitchen fittings like shelves or countertops. To avoid costly surprises, always ask for detailed photos or a written list of what’s actually included before signing the lease.

Semi-Furnished Apartments: A Middle Ground

Some rentals are advertised as semi-furnished — a vague term, but it can be a great balance.

Included	Typical Items
Always	Bedframe, wardrobe, stove/oven
Sometimes	Desk, table & chairs, fridge
Usually Not	Mattress, soft furnishings, kitchen utensils

Why consider semi-furnished?

• Lower rent than furnished apartments
• Fewer upfront purchases than unfurnished places
• Flexibility to add your own style

Questions Every Student Should Ask Before Signing a Lease

Before committing to any rental, be sure to ask:

• What furniture and appliances are included? (Get a full inventory)
• Is Wi-Fi and electricity included in the rent?
• How old is the furniture, and what condition is it in?
• Can I replace or remove items I don’t like?
• Who is responsible for repairs or replacements?
• Are there any photos or a virtual tour of the apartment as-is?

Also Read: 

• Culture Shock Examples in Japan: Things That Surprise International Students
• Importance of Student Accommodation in the Study Abroad

Hidden Costs & Smart Budgeting Tips

Even furnished apartments can have hidden costs. Here’s how to budget wisely:

Cost Type	Furnished	Unfurnished
Security Deposit	Higher (due to furniture)	Moderate
Moving Expenses	Lower	Higher (furniture transport)
Utility Setup	Sometimes included	Usually separate
Furniture Cost	Included	USD 600–USD 1,500 upfront

Budget Tip: Instead of just comparing monthly rent, calculate your total move-in cost (furnishing, utilities, deposits) to make the right choice.

Which One is Right for You?

Choose Furnished If…	Choose Unfurnished If…
You’re staying for a short time	You’re planning to stay long-term
You don’t want the hassle of buying furniture	You want to design your space your way
Your budget allows for higher monthly rent	You’re okay with upfront furnishing costs
Convenience > customization	Personalization > convenience

Think about your priorities:

• How long will you stay?
• Do you have the time and budget to furnish a home?
• How flexible is your move-in date?

Always double-check listings, ask for an itemised list of inclusions, and never assume anything based on the word “furnished.” What’s common in your home country might be completely different abroad. Evaluate all study abroad options with Leverage Edu. Stay tuned with Leverage Live classes and realise your dream of studying abroad.

FAQs

Related Blogs
Two Main Intake Seasons of US Universities and Their Key Differences [2025]	How to Find Cheap Student Accommodation in Canada: 10 Tips to Follow
Exploring the Different Types of Student Accommodation in the USA	How To Greet in France? Cultural Norms, French Greetings
Minimum PTE Scores Required for UK Universities	Things Not To Do in New Zealand: Mistakes to Avoid
Student Visa Delay: Causes, Solutions, and How to Avoid It	How to Get a Student Loan for Accommodation?
Accommodation Struggles for International Students and How to Overcome Them	5 Reasons to Study in USA