December 4, 2025

If you’ve ever researched temporary accommodations for business travel or employee relocations, you may have noticed something: “corporate housing” goes by many different names.

While the terminology varies across industries, regions, and providers, the concept remains the same, fully furnished, short- or long-term housing designed for business travelers. Understanding these different terms can help corporations and employees cut through confusion and find the right solution faster. Here are the most common ways people refer to corporate housing, and what each term really means.

1. Corporate Housing

Corporate housing refers to fully furnished apartments or homes available for short- or extended stays, typically 30 days to several months. These accommodations are designed specifically for employees on relocation, project-based assignments, short or long-term assignments. Corporate housing includes everything needed to live comfortably, furniture, linens, kitchenware, Wi-Fi, and utilities, and is often managed through vetted providers who maintain high standards for service and quality. Typical Length of Stay: 30–90+ days

2. Serviced Apartments

Popular in Europe and Asia, “serviced apartments” are one of the most widely used alternatives to the term corporate housing. These units come fully furnished and include services like housekeeping more frequently, concierge support, and sometimes hotel-like experience.Typical Length of Stay: 7–60 days

3. Temporary Housing/ Temporary Lodging

“Temporary housing” is a broader, more generic term. Commonly used by HR departments, relocation managers, or insurance companies to describe housing solutions for employees on short-term or long-term assignments, or relocations. Typical Length of Stay: 30–180 days

4. Short-Term Rentals/Vacation Rentals

Short-term rentals is generally speaking to vacation rentals. The term often refers to fully furnished properties available for stays from a few days to a few months. Generally It doesn’t meet the level of service required by corporations, traveler expectations or quality assurance. Typical Length of Stay: 3–30 days

5. Extended Stay Housing

Extended stay housing is often associated with hotels designed for longer visits. These accommodations typically include kitchens and laundry facilities, catering to travelers who need more than a few nights. It is usually a much smaller living space compared to corporate housing. Typical Length of Stay: 7–30 days

6. Furnished Apartments

This term is common in real estate and consumer searches, but it doesn’t always guarantee the services, and lease flexibility, generally associated with long-term stays. It doesn’t meet the level of service required by corporations, traveler expectations or quality assurance. Typical Length of Stay: 60+ days (usually under 12-month leases)

7. Aparthotels

Aparthotels, also known as apartment hotels, blend hotel-style services with the space and amenities of an apartment. Guests typically benefit from 24/7 front desk support, housekeeping, and on-site amenities, but with the added benefit of a kitchenette and more living space than a hotel room. Aparthotels are especially popular in urban centers where business travelers want both convenience and comfort. Typical Length of Stay: 5–30 days

Why the Terminology Matters

Different industries, regions, and travelers use different terms, but the challenge is the same: finding reliable, high-quality housing that meets business requirements. This variety in language can make searching more difficult. A relocation manager in London might type “serviced apartment,” while an HR coordinator in the U.S. might search “corporate housing” or “temporary housing.” Without a clear understanding of the overlap, valuable options could be overlooked.

How ReloQuest Simplifies the Search

No matter what term you use—corporate housing, serviced apartments, or furnished apartments—ReloQuest brings it all together on one platform.
  • #1 Rated Traveler Experience – Employees know they’ll feel supported wherever they go.
  • Savings of up to 37% – Side-by-side comparisons of multiple suppliers ensure the best value.
  • Policy-Integrated Compliance – Every option aligns with corporate mobility policies and duty of care.
By aggregating all types of accommodations under one platform, ReloQuest eliminates confusion and ensures corporations and employees can find the right housing, no matter what they call it.

    See why thousands of companies use ReloQuest to search, compare & book furnished apartments and hotels.