A building is considered a high-rise if it has at least 10 stories, while a low-rise building typically has a height of up to four stories. The definition varies on the location, but in general, you would be able to tell the difference fairly quickly at first glance.
This is a contributed post and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Meet The Harris Family.
When looking for an apartment or condo for sale, you will likely encounter two common options: low-rise buildings and high-rise buildings. There are obvious differences between two living options with significantly different heights, but let’s dig deeper into the pros and cons of high-rise living and low-rise living to help you make the best choice.
The pros of high-rise living
- The view is almost always great. Living in a high-rise building will offer you some of the best views of the cityscape. If the view is something that is important to you, a high-rise option may be the most suitable choice.
- You get more natural light. High-rise buildings typically receive more sunlight because surrounding buildings are less likely to block the sun. However, this would depend on how tall the building is as well as the height of the surrounding buildings.
- There are always elevators. A high-rise building will always have an elevator. Most buildings will also have more than one to serve more residents.
- It is easier to set up utilities. When you move into a high-rise building, it is easier to set up your Internet connection, telephone line, cable, and other utilities because the building already comes with wiring.
- There is more staff. Compared to a low-rise building, a high-rise building typically employs more staff in-house, such as security guards, maintenance personnel, and sometimes even housekeeping. If you need help, you can call the main admin office and receive immediate help since the building already has staff on-site.
The cons of high-rise living
- There are usually more residents. Because of the advantages of high-rise living, high-rise buildings are typically full of residents. While having a lot of neighbors can impart a “community”-like feel to the building, it can also prove as a disadvantage when you’re rushing to work and get stuck in line at the elevators.
- You have to pay more for parking. Since high-rise buildings usually have more residents, they typically charge more for parking. If you have a car, expect to shell out quite a significant amount of money every month to be able to park in the building.
- Getting downstairs can be a hassle. The higher your floor, the longer it will take to get downstairs. The hassle is greater if you have a pet that needs walking every day or have a disability that makes it difficult to walk around.
- It is not advisable for disabled and elderly people. Living in a high-rise building is not the best option for people with disabilities as well as the elderly, mainly because it takes a lot of time and energy just to get to the ground floor from the unit and vice versa.
The pros of living in a low-rise building
- You are closer to the street. A low-rise building provides easier access to the street down below. If you have a pet, have a disability, or live with an elderly person, a low-rise building is likely the most suitable option for your needs.
- It’s easier to get out during an emergency. In case of a fire, earthquake, health emergency, or other serious events, evacuating is easier in a low-rise building.
- They are usually located in residential areas. Low-rise buildings are typically located in outdoor residential areas, wherein there is usually less traffic, pollution, and noise.
- The prices are often cheaper. Renting or buying a unit in a low-rise building is often cheaper compared to a high-rise building. Furthermore, landlords and owners are usually more willing to negotiate the price.
The cons of living in a low-rise building
- There is more noise. Since you are closer to the street, noise can easily travel up to your apartment, especially if you live in the city.
- Service may take too long. Low-rise apartments may not have service staff in-house. Thus, it may take longer for staff to come to your unit when you need help.
- They don’t always have wiring ready. If you need to set up cable, Internet, and other connections, it may take longer as low-rise apartments may not have these wired up and ready to install.
Given the pros and cons of high-rise vs. low-rise living, hopefully, you will be better able to choose the best option based on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
