Advantages And Disadvantages of Living in a Ground Floor Apartment
We have the Romans to thank for the concept of apartment living. According to reference site, ThoughtCo. Ancient Rome was a prosperous and busy place, and it soon became clear that there wasn’t enough housing to go around.
The resourceful Roman’s decided there was only one thing for it – they would build tall, strong structures to save space and house their people.
Things have moved on a little from Roman times, but apartment living remains hugely popular. With units over a number of floors, occupants just need to decide where they would prefer to live. You can opt for easily accessible ground floor, enjoy the view from the top floor, or go for something in between. Each has advantages and disadvantages, but today we’re going to shine a light on ground floor living, so let’s get going…
Advantages of Living on The Ground Floor
Living on the ground floor isn’t for everyone, but there are plenty of benefits to taking a unit at base level:
- Easy Access
The lack of stairs and close proximity to the entrance and exit results in ground floor apartments being easy to access. This is good news for senior citizens, and those with disabilities and mobility issues. It also means you can evacuate more quickly, should there be an emergency.
- Convenient Position
Ground floor living is convenient and practical – you won’t have to wait for the elevator, or trek up and down flights of stairs every day. This means your arms won’t ache from lugging heavy shopping and your deliveries are less likely to get lost along the way!
- Ripe for Renovation
If you’re thinking of giving your abode a makeover, it’s easier to tackle a ground floor apartment. You can get in and out easily with your DIY equipment, and you can have a new sofa delivered without the worry of squeezing it into the elevator or up the stairs!
- No Neighbors to Disturb
Ground floor residents don’t have to worry about disturbing the people below, as there’s no-one there to worry about! This is particularly handy if you have children or pets, both of which can be on the noisy side.
- Access to Outdoor Space
Some ground floor apartments have direct access to a garden or backyard, which means you get to enjoy fresh air and outdoor space. You might also be able to get into the garage or parking area quickly and easily, which is an added bonus.
Disadvantages of Living on the Ground Floor
Ground floor living does have its plus points, but can come with a few negatives too:
- Less Natural Light
Depending on the setting, you might get less natural light flooding into a ground floor apartment, especially if vegetation or other buildings surround the property. This could make your home feel gloomy and grey rather than bright and inviting.
- Lack of Privacy
Ground floor windows usually overlook communal areas such as paths, yards and car parks so you might be prone to nosy neighbors peering in!
- Busier and Noisier
Living on the ground floor can be noisy, you might have to deal with people walking past and cars driving by in close proximity. If you’re higher up you will be further away from the hustle and bustle.
- Security Concerns
Ground floor apartments do provide easier access, but this isn’t always a good thing. Apartments as base level can pose more of security risk in terms of breaking and entering, as a home invader can enter via street level.
- Dust and Bugs
If you live at ground level it’s more likely that dust and dirt from the street outside will enter into your apartment. You are also more open to the risk of insects and bugs crawling through any gaps and cracks in walls etc.
Ground Floor Apartment Vs Top Floor
We’ve ascertained that there are pros and cons of living in a ground floor apartment, but how do they compare to top floor units? Top floor flats are further away from street, so residents often feel more secure in their home, benefit from more light, and enjoy a better view.
However, you will have to use an elevator or the stairs to reach your front door when you live higher up, which can be a pain (especially if you’re carrying something heavy). How much of a nuisance this is depends on the number of floors the building has e.g., if you live on the top floor or a 24-storey building, you might get fed up of the journey up and down, but if your building is only 3 stories high it won’t be such a big problem.
There’s also neighborly noise to consider. When you’re on the top floor you won’t be disturbed by people above you (on the ground floor you might). However, as a top floor resident you will have to be considerate e.g. best not to engage in late night dance mat games or furniture rearrangement!
Ground Floor Apartment Vs Middle Floor
Ground floor apartments are easily accessible and are more convenient than middle floor apartments. However, you might find middle apartments cozier and more secure.
If you’re on the ground floor you don’t have to worry making too much noise – there’s no-one below you, but on the middle floor you not only have to be considerate of your neighbors below, you also have to deal with any noise coming from the apartment above!
Are Ground Floor Apartments Colder?
If you paid attention during your science classes, you’ll be aware that warm air travels upwards.
Therefore, it stands to reason that ground floor apartments are cooler. This will be beneficial in the summer months, but your pad will be colder during winter – so it’s going to be more expensive heating wise.
Do Ground Floor Apartments Cost Less?
It’s difficult to answer with a definitive yes or no. The cost of an apartment is dependant a range of elements, including its location, condition and area demographics.
If there’s a high proportion of elderly people living in the locality, there’s likely to be more demand for ground floor apartments.
However, ground floor apartments can take longer to sell due to concerns over security, noise levels, a lack of heat and light and no scenic views. In this case, the cost of the apartment will fall to attract buyers/renters.
Is It Safe to Live in A Ground Floor Apartment?
We’re aware that ground floor apartments are easily accessible, which is great for residents. Unfortunately, there are less desirable characters out there also seeking easy access to homes – burglars.
Statistically, ground floor homes are more vulnerable. They are at street level and can be accessed more easily from the outside, via windows and doors.
How do I protect my ground floor Apartment?
Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to protect your ground floor apartment from thieves (check out the Apartmentguide checklist for a few ideas).
Start by taking a good look around to identify any weak spots e.g., glass patio doors, front door, window – make sure you have secure locks fitted and close/lock all windows on doors when you leave.
Don’t leave expensive items on show, as this might tempt ad hoc criminals. It’s also wise to make your apartment look occupied – if you’re going away overnight use smart lights / timer switches for lights to give the impression you’re home in the evening.
Tips For Living in A Ground Floor Apartment
Moving into a ground floor apartment? Begin by making your home secure, install good locks, use timer switches for lights and consider a home security system. If you feel safe in your apartment you will be able to relax and enjoy your home.
You can also cut back any overgrown shrubs or bushes by windows and doors (but check with your landlord before you get going)! This should help let natural light in and deter insects.
As for keeping your place toasty in winter, you can help to insulate your apartment by using draft excluders by doors and installing thermal curtains. You’ll find some great tips on this on the Money Pit website.
Should I Live in a Ground Floor Apartment?
Weight up the pros and cons (if you need to go over the pros and cons again you can check out this youtube video).
If you can secure your ground floor apartment and make it light and cozy, ground floor living might be perfect for you – convenient and easy.
