Living near a train station can have its advantages, such as easy access to transportation and proximity to amenities.
But is it safe to live near a train station? The answer depends on a few factors, including the location of the train station and the frequency and speed of trains passing through.
Let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits and drawbacks of living near a train station to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Living near a train station can be convenient, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.
- Noise pollution and safety concerns are common issues for those who live near train tracks.
- Despite the potential drawbacks, living near a train station can be a great choice for those who value accessibility and convenience.
Pros of Living Near a Train Station
Living near a train station has its advantages. Here are some of the benefits of living near a train station.
Easy Access to Public Transportation
One of the significant advantages of living near a train station is the easy access to public transportation. Train stations are usually situated in the heart of the city, providing quick and hassle-free transportation.
You can easily get to your destination without worrying about traffic or parking. Additionally, taking a train to work or school can save you time and money on gas and parking fees.
Affordable Housing Options
Living near a train station can provide you with affordable housing options. Since train stations are usually located in urban areas, there are often many housing options available.
You can find apartments, condos, mobile home communities and townhouses that are affordable and convenient. Moreover, living near a train station can save you money on transportation costs, which can help you save even more money in the long run.
Potential Property Value Increase
Another advantage of living near a train station is the potential increase in property value. Properties near train stations are often in high demand, which can lead to an increase in property value.
This can be beneficial if you plan to sell your property in the future. Moreover, living near a train station can attract potential buyers who are looking for convenient and affordable housing options.
Cons of Living Near a Train Station
Living near a train station has its advantages, but it also has its drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of living near a train station that you should consider before making a decision.
Noise and Vibration Issues
Living near a train station means that you will be exposed to noise and vibration issues. Trains passing by can produce a lot of noise, especially if the train station is busy. The noise can be disruptive and make it difficult to sleep or concentrate. The vibration from the trains can also be felt in your home, causing discomfort and potential damage to your property.
According to a study published on PubMed, residents living near railway tracks can experience long-term effects of railway noise, including a sensitization process on the autonomic response to noise. The study suggests that the noise can induce a startle/defense reflex, which can turn to habituation in the long-term if no adverse effect is experienced.
Increased Traffic
Living near a train station can lead to increased traffic in the area. This can make it difficult to get around, especially during peak hours when commuters are traveling to and from work. The increased traffic can also make it harder to find parking near your home.
Potential Structural Setbacks
The vibration from the trains passing by can cause potential structural setbacks to your home. The constant shaking can cause cracks in the walls, ceilings, and floors. Over time, this can lead to more significant structural damage, which can be costly to repair.
In addition, living near a train station can have a negative effect on property values. Houses near train tracks can devalue a property by up to 30%, according to Bowfin. This means that houses affected by train noise will be less valuable than other houses in the same area that are away from the noise of trains.
Health Concerns Of Living Near A Train Station
Living near a train station can raise concerns about potential health risks. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common health concerns associated with living near train stations.
Potential Increased Health Risks
Studies have shown that living near a train station can increase your risk of certain health conditions. According to a study conducted in California, people living near railroad stations with high traffic volume have a higher risk of cancer due to exposure to diesel pollution from the trains. Similarly, noise pollution and vibrations from trains can cause sleep disturbances and other health problems.
Air Pollution Concerns
Living close to a train station means you are exposed to traffic-related air pollution. The pollutants emitted from trains can include particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide.
Exposure to these pollutants can cause respiratory problems such as asthma and other health issues. According to the EPA, people living close to roadways and train stations are at a higher risk of respiratory problems due to exposure to air pollution.
Noise-Related Sleep Disturbances
Living near a train station can cause sleep disturbances due to the noise pollution caused by trains.
The World Health Organization recommends that nighttime noise levels should not exceed 40 decibels to prevent sleep disturbances.
However, trains can produce noise levels of up to 100 decibels, which can cause sleep disturbances and other health problems.
To mitigate the health risks associated with living near train stations, it is important to take measures such as reducing exposure to pollutants and noise pollution. For example, you can use air filters in your home to reduce exposure to pollutants, or install soundproof windows to reduce exposure to noise pollution.
Train Stations and Property
Living near a train station can have both positive and negative impacts on your property. In this section, we will explore the impact of train stations on property value, proximity to train lines and stations, and considerations for home buyers.
Impact on Property Value
Proximity to train stations can increase the value of your property by up to 9.7% depending on how close your house is to the station and train tracks.
According to Bowfin, a house that is too close to train tracks and train noise may decrease its value. On the other hand, houses near high-frequency public transportation traditionally perform 42% better than in other areas, according to APTA.
Proximity to Train Lines and Stations
Living close to train lines and stations can be convenient for commuting and traveling. You can save time and money by using public transportation instead of driving.
However, living near railroad tracks poses health and safety risks. For those reasons and because of the noise, home values are usually lower along railroad tracks. According to Pocketsense, people living near train tracks are more likely to develop asthma.
Considerations for Home Buyers
When buying a house near a train station, you need to consider several factors.
First, you need to research the train schedule and frequency of trains. Living near a train station means you will hear the sound of trains passing by your house.
Second, you need to consider the distance between your house and the train tracks. According to Bowfin, houses next to railway lines can devalue a property by up to 30%.
Third, you need to consider the impact of train noise on your quality of life. Living near a train station can be noisy, and this can affect your sleep and daily activities.
Fourth, you need to consider the safety and health risks associated with living near train tracks. Finally, you need to consider the convenience of living near a train station. If you commute frequently, living near a train station can be a great advantage.
Conclusion
Living near a train station can have its advantages and disadvantages. While it offers convenience in terms of transportation, it also poses some risks to your health and safety.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Age: If you have young children or elderly individuals living with you, it’s important to consider the potential health risks associated with exposure to air pollution and noise pollution from trains. They may be more vulnerable to the negative effects of these pollutants.
- Window: Keeping your windows closed can help reduce exposure to noise and air pollution from trains. However, this may not be a practical solution during the summer months when you want to let fresh air in.
- Summer: During the summer months, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to air pollution from trains. This is because higher temperatures and sunlight can cause pollutants to react with each other and form ground-level ozone, which can be harmful to your health.
- Amtrak: If you live near an Amtrak station, you may experience more noise and air pollution from passenger trains compared to other types of trains. It’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to these pollutants.
- PAU: The Public Affairs Unit (PAU) of your local department of transportation can provide you with more information about the potential health risks associated with living near a train station. They can also provide you with tips on how to reduce your exposure to noise and air pollution from trains.
- Passenger train: Living near a passenger train station may expose you to more noise and air pollution compared to living near a freight train station. This is because passenger trains typically run more frequently and at higher speeds.
- Rail yards: Living near a rail yard can expose you to more air pollution from trains compared to living near a train station. This is because trains may idle for long periods of time at rail yards, emitting more pollutants into the air.
- Ports: If you live near a port, you may be exposed to more air pollution from ships and trains. It’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to these pollutants.
- Noisy: Living near a train station can be noisy, especially if you live close to the tracks. This can affect your quality of life and may even affect the value of your property.
- Foundations: The vibrations from passing trains can potentially damage the foundations of your home. It’s important to have your home inspected regularly to ensure that it’s structurally sound.
Overall, living near a train station can be convenient, but it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to noise and air pollution from trains. By taking steps to reduce your exposure to these pollutants, you can help protect your health and the health of your loved ones.
