Duplex Vs. Townhouse: What Are The Main Differences?

Mar 12, 2024

6-minute read

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Image displaying a row of townhouses on a sunny day in North Carolina, showcasing real estate or property.

As you search for the right house to live in, it’s important to know and understand the various styles of homes available to you. Duplexes and townhouses are two types of homes that provide slightly different ways of living, and their differences – sometimes a source of confusion – are worth exploring.

In this article, we’ll define duplexes and townhouses and discuss the key differences between the two housing arrangements.

Duplex And Townhouse: Defined

Before we dive into the differences between duplexes and townhomes, let’s first consider their definitions.

What Is A Duplex?

A duplex is a structure where two homes are connected, but each home has its own entrance for its respective residents. Duplexes can be single-story or multistory, and the two sides of the house are often identical or at least similar in style and size.

It’s important to note that even though these houses share a wall or a floor and ceiling, they’re separate in all other features. Residents will have their own utilities and interior rooms, and they might even have their own driveway and side yard depending on the location and size of the duplex.

What Is A Townhouse?

A townhouse is a home that’s usually connected to two other townhomes – one on either side of each wall. Townhouses are typically one or two stories high. Since both of the side walls are usually shared, the only windows and doors will typically be located on the front and back of the house.

It’s possible to live in a townhouse that’s located on the end of a row of townhomes. If that’s the case, you’ll only share a common wall with one home – giving you a couple of extra windows or a door, depending on the style of the home.

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