Quick answer

High-rises commonly use more substantial structural systems and floor assemblies that may improve sound isolation, but they are not automatically quiet. Noise can come from neighboring units, hallways, elevators, plumbing, mechanical systems, streets, nightlife, pools, wind, or nearby construction. Mid-rise acoustic performance also varies according to construction and layout. Test the exact apartment at a relevant time, ask about wall and floor assemblies without assuming concrete separates every residence, and note adjacency to elevators, trash rooms, amenity decks, garages, and mechanical spaces. Management response to recurring noise complaints matters as much as the building category.

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