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Townhomes vs. Apartments: What Are the Differences?

By January 26, 2024Apartment Hunting, General
Townhome apartment exterior

If you’re looking for a new home you might be wondering if an apartment or a townhome is right for you. What are the main differences between these two popular home types? Here are some factors to consider when searching for your next residence.

What Is a Townhome?

Generally, a townhome or townhouse is a single-family residence that has at least two stories and shares one or two walls with neighboring residences. Townhomes have their own entrances and sometimes have their own front yard, back patio or garage. A more cost-effective alternative to traditional detached homes, townhomes provide ample space and functional layouts for renters.

Interior living room of townhome

Differences Between Townhomes and Apartments

There are some key differences between townhomes and apartments. In terms of floor plan and layout, townhomes have at least two stories while apartments more commonly have one. Townhomes generally have layouts similar to traditional detached homes and are often larger than typical apartments. They also feature direct private entrances, compared to apartments that are often accessed via shared hallways, and many even have private garages.

Benefits of Renting a Townhome

Renters who want more space, for example large families, may prefer a townhome due to bigger floor plans and more varied bedroom options. Townhomes can also offer more privacy than apartments, since they have their own entrances and sometimes include private outdoor spaces and garages. Irvine Company townhomes feature on-site amenities like resort-style pools, fitness centers, parks, outdoor gathering areas and more.

Pool view from apartment column style walkway

Irvine Company Communities With Townhomes

Irvine Company offers a variety of floor plan options across our coastal California locations. Here are some of the exceptional communities featuring townhomes.

Orange County

Bordeaux

Cypress Village

Los Olivos at Irvine Spectrum

Woodbury Place

Rancho Maderas

Promontory Point

The Village at Irvine Spectrum

San Diego

Arcadia at Stonecrest Village

Marbella

Pacific View

The Village Mission Valley

Del Rio

La Jolla Palms

Monte Vista

Solazzo

Renaissance

Torrey Villas

Torrey Hills

Silicon Valley

Cherry Orchard

North Park

Redwood Place

The Hamptons

Santa Clara Square

Crescent Village

Franklin Street

Monticello

River View

Villas at Bair Island

Ready to find the perfect townhome for you? Explore communities and schedule a tour today.