Introduction

In today’s urban and suburban landscapes, residential buildings that contain multiple separate housing units play a vital role in meeting diverse housing needs. These structures are prevalent in cities and towns, offering benefits such as affordability, efficient land use, and opportunities for community living. Whether you’re a young professional starting out, a family seeking space, or a retiree looking to downsize, there’s likely a multifamily housing option that fits your lifestyle. In this blog post, we’ll explore four common types of multifamily housing structures: duplexes, townhouses, apartment buildings, and condominiums. Each type offers distinct features and advantages, making it essential to understand their differences when deciding where to live.

Types of Multifamily Housing Structures

Duplexes

Duplexes are buildings designed to house two separate living units under one roof. These units can be arranged side by side, sharing a common wall, or stacked with one unit above the other. Each unit typically has its own entrance, and residents might share outdoor spaces like a yard or driveway. Duplexes are a great choice for small families or individuals who want more space than a typical apartment provides, but at a lower cost than a single-family home. They’re also popular with investors, as owners can live in one unit and rent out the other for extra income. Imagine a young couple buying their first home—a duplex could give them the space they need while allowing them to offset their mortgage with rental income from the second unit.

Townhouses

Townhouses are multi-story homes that share one or more walls with neighboring units, often forming a row of similar residences. Each townhouse has its own entrance and may include a small private yard or patio. Known for their uniform design, townhouses are typically part of planned communities and offer a mix of privacy and shared living. They’re especially common in suburban and urban areas, attracting families and professionals who value both personal space and neighborhood amenities like community pools or playgrounds. For example, a family with children might choose a townhouse for its community-oriented environment, where kids can play with neighbors and parents can build connections.

Apartment Buildings

Apartment buildings are larger structures that contain multiple housing units, often spread across several floors. These buildings vary in size, from low-rise (1-3 stories) to mid-rise (4-8 stories) to high-rise (9+ stories) complexes. They frequently offer shared amenities such as laundry rooms, gyms, parking areas, or even rooftop terraces, adding convenience for residents. Apartment buildings are a prime example of multifamily housing, where multiple families live in separate units within the same structure. They’re a staple in densely populated areas, providing a range of unit sizes and layouts to suit everyone from singles to large families. Renting an apartment is often more affordable than buying a home, making it a go-to option for young professionals, students, and retirees. For instance, a recent college graduate moving to a new city might pick an apartment building for its affordability and easy access to urban hotspots like cafes and transit lines.

Condominiums

Condominiums, or condos, resemble apartments in that they’re individual units within a larger building. The key difference lies in ownership: while apartments are usually rented, condos are owned by their residents. Condo owners maintain their own units and share responsibility for common areas like hallways, elevators, and recreational spaces. This setup combines the perks of homeownership—like building equity—with the ease of shared maintenance and amenities. Condos appeal to those who want to own property without the upkeep of a standalone house, making them popular with retirees or busy professionals. Picture a retiree looking to downsize—a condo could offer them a low-maintenance home they own, free from the burden of yard work or exterior repairs.

Conclusion

Multifamily housing structures come in various forms, each tailored to different needs and preferences. Duplexes strike a balance between space and cost, making them ideal for small households or savvy investors. Townhouses blend privacy with community, appealing to families and social professionals. Apartment buildings offer flexibility and affordability for a wide range of residents, while condominiums provide ownership with convenience. Choosing the right type depends on your lifestyle, budget, and whether you prioritize renting, owning, or a mix of personal and communal living. Understanding these options can help you find a home that fits both your present and future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between an apartment and a condo?

An apartment is generally rented from a landlord or property manager, while a condo is owned by the resident. Condo owners handle their unit’s upkeep and share ownership and maintenance of common areas.

2. Are townhouses more expensive than duplexes?

The cost varies by location, size, and features. Townhouses might be pricier in areas with community amenities, while duplexes could cost more where rental income potential drives up demand.

3. Can I rent out a unit in a duplex if I live in the other?

Absolutely! Many duplex owners live in one unit and rent out the other, using the income to help cover mortgage payments or boost savings.

4. What are the benefits of living in a multifamily housing structure?

These structures offer affordability, shared amenities, a sense of community, and efficient use of space—especially in urban settings where standalone homes may be out of reach.