Comparing Costs of Hotels vs Furnished Apartments for Extended Stays

Planning a long-term stay in Minneapolis requires careful consideration of accommodation options to ensure both comfort and budget-friendliness. Choosing between hotels and furnished apartments can significantly impact your overall experience and expenses during an extended visit. Hotels and furnished apartments each offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, from initial costs to hidden expenses and amenities. Comparing these options thoroughly will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs for a comfortable and cost-effective extended stay in Minneapolis.

Initial Cost Comparison

At first glance, hotels might seem cheaper, but for longer stays, furnished apartments often provide better value:

• Hotels: Average nightly rate in Minneapolis ranges from $100-$200
• Furnished Apartments: Monthly rates typically start around $2000-$3000

For a 30-day stay, hotel costs can quickly add up to $3000-$6000, while a furnished apartment might offer significant savings.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond the base rate, several factors affect the total cost of your stay:

Food and Dining

• Hotels: Limited kitchen facilities often lead to expensive dining out or room service
• Furnished Apartments: Full kitchens allow for home-cooked meals, potentially saving hundreds per month

Parking

• Hotels: Daily parking fees in downtown Minneapolis can exceed $20
• Furnished Apartments: Often include free parking or have lower monthly rates

Laundry

• Hotels: Expensive per-item laundry service or coin-operated machines
• Furnished Apartments: In-unit washers and dryers for convenient, cost-free laundry

Space and Comfort

The living space greatly impacts your extended stay experience:

• Hotels: Average room size is 330 square feet
• Furnished Apartments: Typically range from 600-1200 square feet

More space means better comfort for long-term stays, potentially improving productivity and overall satisfaction.

Amenities and Services

Both options offer various amenities, but with different focuses:

Hotels

• Daily housekeeping
• On-site restaurants
• Business centers
• Fitness facilities

Furnished Apartments

• Full kitchen with appliances
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Often include Wi-Fi and cable TV
• Many offer community amenities like pools or gyms

Location and Accessibility

Consider how location affects your stay:

• Hotels: Often centrally located, but may be in busy tourist areas
• Furnished Apartments: Can offer a more local, residential experience

Christy Living offers furnished apartments in Minneapolis neighborhoods, providing a balance of convenience and local charm.

Flexibility and Personalization

Extended stays benefit from adaptable living spaces:

• Hotels: Limited ability to personalize your space
• Furnished Apartments: Freedom to arrange furniture, decorate, and make the space feel like home

The Bottom Line

For stays longer than a few weeks, furnished apartments often provide better value, more comfort, and a more home-like experience compared to hotels. While the upfront cost might seem higher, the long-term savings and improved quality of life make furnished apartments a smart choice for extended stays in Minneapolis.

Finding Your Ideal Extended Stay Solution

If you're planning a long-term visit to Minneapolis and want to explore furnished apartment options, contact Christy Living at 612-889-5100. We can help you find a comfortable, cost-effective solution that feels like home during your extended stay.