What is a Garden Apartment? + Pros & Cons

As you begin your apartment hunt, you’ll find that there are plenty of different options. Knowing your options will help you narrow down the choices and find the apartment of your dreams.

In this guide, we’ll discuss what a garden apartment is and the pros and cons of renting this type of unit to help you decide if this is the best rental option for you.

What Is a Garden Apartment?

Despite what the name may suggest, a garden apartment does not necessarily entail direct access to an outdoor garden space. Instead, the term “garden apartment” typically refers to apartment buildings surrounded by green areas and are no more than three stories tall.

Some of the green spaces you might see in a garden apartment may include things like:

• Gardens
• Wooded areas
• Lawns

A unique feature of garden apartments is that they can be found in many different areas and are not limited to rural regions. You can even find a garden apartment in suburban and urban areas.

A garden apartment may be in reference to a ground floor or basement apartment with direct access to a garden area. Although this is rarely the case, you might find the bottom floor of a high-rise building referred to as a garden apartment. In these instances, you can anticipate a private garden area or patio with this type of rental unit.

What’s the Difference Between a Walk-Up and a Garden Apartment?

A walk-up apartment typically ranges from four to six stories tall without an elevator. These buildings are generally found in urban areas and are older, hence not outfitting with an elevator to access higher levels.

On the other hand, garden apartments are anywhere from one to three stories tall and may or may not have an elevator. The primary feature of garden apartments is the access to green spaces, which is not a feature of a walk-up apartment.

Pros and Cons of Renting a Garden Apartment

If you consider renting a garden apartment, look closely at both the pros and cons before jumping into a lease agreement. Having a thorough understanding of the features these apartments offer will help you make your best-educated decision for your style of life.

One crucial aspect to consider is that the noise level varies from apartment to apartment. It may be quiet since it’s nearby green spaces. In the same regard, it may also be loud since there are fewer floors and you may be closer to the street.

Garden Apartment Pros

First, let’s start with some of the primary benefits of renting a garden apartment.

Easily Accessible

Many renters who prefer garden apartments enjoy the accessibility to their front door. Since garden apartments are at a low level, you don’t have to worry about an exhaustive stair trek or elevator ride to get to your apartment.

While you might not think this is a deal-breaker, if you take the time to think about your grocery hauls or you have a pet that needs to go out to the bathroom frequently, you might want to consider this.

Ample Parking

Parking is always a hot topic for rental units, which is why having ample parking is another benefit of a garden apartment. Most garden apartment communities have plenty of parking available to each unit, all within a short walk.

Typically Cheaper Rent

Garden apartments are typically located in places with plenty of space, not usually in urban areas, which means you can anticipate cheaper rent. Studies show that garden apartments can be up to 30% cheaper than comparable units in a more urban environment.

Access to Green Spaces

Of course, the obvious benefit of renting a garden apartment is the access to green spaces. These apartments are excellent for dog owners, exercise enthusiasts, or anyone who loves to breathe in the fresh air.

Garden Apartment Cons

Since there are two sides to every story, it’s equally important to note some of the downsides to renting garden apartments.

Not Conveniently Located

Garden apartments are not typically located in cities, which means they will not be within walking distance of shopping centers or other local attractions.

Vulnerable to Bad Weather

While having easy access to garden space is a huge perk, features such as large windows, open balconies, etc., all of which are commonly found in garden apartments, make you highly vulnerable to natural disasters.

As a garden apartment renter, you’ll need to be mindful of inclement weather and prepare your home for any upcoming storms to avoid potential damages.

Don’t Get a Skyline View

Because garden apartment units are located on lower levels, the views aren’t always the greatest. If you’re located at street level, you’ll often find your views are of people’s feet walking by on the sidewalk.

Thankfully, with the help of some tastefully sourced window treatments or blinds, you can quickly curb any privacy concerns.

Might Experience Dampness

In areas prone to humidity, you’ll find that garden apartments tend to attract more moisture than higher-story unit alternatives. Unfortunately, with moisture comes a series of other unwanted things, such as critters and mildew.

If you know you will be living in an area with high humidity, invest in a dehumidifier. Also, be sure to ask your landlord about any regular pest control to help keep critters at bay.

Final Thoughts - Is a Garden Apartment for Me?

Deciding if a garden apartment is a suitable choice for you comes down to personal preference. If you like the idea of having your own space that is more spread out and provides you with easy access to nature, a garden apartment is going to be an excellent option.

Alternatively, if you enjoy the convenience of urban living with restaurants and entertainment within walking distance, you might want to reconsider.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Thankfully, now that you have a better idea of what a garden apartment is and the pros and cons of renting one, you can make the decision that is best suited for your lifestyle. If you're interested in renting today, sign up for Apartment List!