Why Russians Prefer Living in Apartments to Living in Private Houses

[@StPetersburgme]

Guys, and what about you? Do you like living in an apartment or in a house?

[@johnfothergill1581]

At the moment in the UK i live in an apartment and i'am happy with it .I know of only one Russian friend who lives in a house and that's in Vladimir.

[@StPetersburgme]

And I don't have a friend who lives in a house. I only have friends who have summer houses.

[@stefanmoisei7707]

I prefer living in an apartment. I’m from Brazil.

[@damnjustassignmeone]

I grew up living in a house, but now I live in New York City, so I live in an apartment. Much like Russia, Manhattan only has apartments. For me, it's worth it. I prefer living in the city in an apartment. So many Americans live somewhat lonely lives without enough human interaction. They also don't get much exercise, one reason so many Americans have become fat. Anyhow, I prefer my life now -- in an apartment in the city.

[@ailanthus_altissima]

I live in the US. I grew up in a single family detached home. I've lived in both apartments and single family homes as an adult. When I had dogs, I preferred to live in a single family home. At this stage in my life, I greatly prefer living in an apartment. I live alone and I don't enjoy yardwork or any of the endless work it takes to keep up a single family home. I live in a cold climate and I don't like shoveling snow. I pay a high assessment fee for my condo, however in exchange for the fee, someone else handles any issues related to heating and most plumbing issues, building security and cleaning (common areas). The buildings staff is very helpful when I have any kind of problem - I don't have to handle everything alone. I live in a big city and I feel safer in a building where there are other people around. Building security keeps threats out - in a single family home, I would need to manage all of the security myself. I think the apartment experience varies depending on other factors related to the group of people living there. My building is very, very clean, it is extremely quiet and the people are friendly, but not too intrusive. Given my circumstances, I prefer apartment living - it better supports the work I do and how I want to spend my time and it is safer for me.

[@michaelberta3153]

Many people in the USA are not aware of the devastation Russian cities suffered in WW2. Thank you for giving them a much needed brief history lesson.

[@fall22123]

Loss of life too. 500k Americans died. Around 20m russians.

[@esterherschkovich6499]

No winners in war..sadly..😪loss of lives in WW2 all round the world.

[@donnadixon289]

I sure hope the USA realizes they need to drastically improve grade school education.

[@Brix96]

The fact that this was not explained to the people of Britain and the U S A means that they were lied to.

[@okieoiogh8235]

Well Putin hasn't rebuilt Russia like he should have. Don't forget that.

[@DMBall]

I grew up in 1950's and 60's America. I do not exaggerate when I say children in our school system were not taught one single word about Russian history, people, customs, living conditions, politics, anything. For someone like me it's marvelous to have the chance to get a look inside the world's largest country.

[@janpeterson6851]

Interesting. Your English is great.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you so much!

[@richardevans6865]

Most Europeans and in Russia people are bi-lingual or more.

[@terrypbug]

Very good english better then some of us over here lol

[@davorlekenik9563]

@@StPetersburgme ...woooow !!! ....Sankt Petersburg - Lakhta Tower...beautiful & gorgeous 👍👍

[@sjbock]

@@terrypbug much better English speaker than Melania Trump.

[@nhartigan72]

Great video! I've asked a Russian friend that same question & he had a little different theory on the topic. He believed the apartments were also more popular due to the extreme cold temperatures of Russia. He thought it worked better to heat an apartment building, rather than a lot of single family homes. He believed a furnace would have to work very hard in a single family home & if it stops working for very long in -40 degree weather, all is ruined, but in a large apartment building with a boiler or multiple furnaces, the risks would be lower. I don't if he's right or wrong, but I thought it was interesting.

[@donnaatteberry3640]

I’m an American, living in the state of California. In my adult life, I’ve mostly lived in apartments, usually the two-story variety. Sure, I would like to buy, or even rent, a house, but the cost for either is too prohibitive for me. Luckily, the apartment I live in now is low noise, and I don’t worry too much about crime. However, I’ve also lived in apartments where the noise caused by neighbors was close to intolerable and where I worried about my safety. By the way, your English grammar is so much better than that of most Americans. It is a pleasure listening to how you speak. Thank you.

[@lisafike8904]

You need to move to Russia. You will be much happier there!

[@blockaderunner]

@@lisafike8904 I would like to move to Russia, but need an invite. I own my own house in America. I have studied Russian language off and on for 8 years.

[@wa1ufo]

Yes, your English is far better than that of many Americans!

[@blockaderunner]

@@stanspb763 wish I could melt the ice caps and go live in Siberia, own a big plot of land

[@crimestoppers1877]

I found low priced acreage with a very small house. I watched KZbin videos to learn how to remodel and add on so now my house is 4 times larger and I have a garage which is larger than most houses. It takes time to build like this since I must do framing, plumbing electrical roofing, tiling on my own. I can not even see my closest neighbor from my house.

[@Jane_1994]

Look at the wealthiest Russians - they have beautiful gated homes in Рублёвка. I agree, most Russians would prefer (or would at least appreciate having access to) a standalone home. We moved to a standalone house when we came to the states and my mom literally broke down crying when my grandpa told her there isn't a separate family living downstairs, and that it was all ours.

[@ilyal5712]

There is a lot of critic related to standalone housing in US. Fist of all, you have to have a car. You cannot just walk 10 minutes to convenient store to buy oranges. It is additional cost for for fuel, danger of driving, carbon emissions. Secondly, commuting is minus 2 hours from your life each working day! Plus traffic jams.:) Nowadays, more and more popular Danish-style houses - some kind of stylish 'hruschevkas' with balconies - 4-storeay building, without elevator, with balcony, modern Scandinavian design, energy saving, etc.

[@bonnievandergriff8272]

@@ilyal5712 I live in the suburbs of a medium sized city in the United States and my area has most of the modern conveniences of the city. We do not have a shopping mall but are within a 20 minute commuting distance of a mall. I rarely shop at malls anymore and many retail establishments have gone out of business due to Covid-19. We have smaller locally owned businesses and one small grocery store. I have what I need but yes a car is definitely a necessity in the suburbs. We also have what is known as a Dollar General store that is like a very small department store but also carries groceries. I could walk to it if I wanted to which would take about 15 - 20 minutes but choose to drive instead.

[@ilyal5712]

@@bonnievandergriff8272 Nice to hear that everything is not so far from you. What about commuting? How much time is it to your office? Let's forget about COVID for now, as it appears less then a year ago and have not changed architecture yet. I live in a residential area of middle/big city with 1.3 million inhabitants. Coffee shop is in 2 minutes from my house, convenient mini-supermarket in 3 minutes, another similar in 5 mins. Two average supermarkets in 5 and 7 minutes. 5 minutes to fitness center. Local market in 7 minutes. Underground station in 10 minutes, I could get to city center in 45 minutes. My office is in 45-50 minutes by overcrowded mini-bus - it's a cons, same time by bicycle. I have a car, however I prefer bicycle. I do use car for bug shopping, visiting parents or going to countyside standalone summer house - so-called dacha. My parents live in another residential area. 4 minutes to local mini-store, 10 minutes to cafes, two middle stores, bus stop, local mini market, coffee shops. 15 minutes to underground station, four supermarkets, market, construction store, furniture store, etc. 50 minutes to city center by underground. My parents do not have car. Unfortunately, looks like Baiden is going to increase price of fossil fuel and electricity. I hope you would not be affected too much by this.

[@ArealMrsSmith]

@@ilyal5712 I don’t know where you live in the US but I grew up in TX, have lived in Maryland, Oklahoma and Colorado. I have never heard any of the criticism you have talked about outside ecological debates. Also, 4 story building with no elevators? As a disabled person that seems short-sighted at best, ableist and moving backwards at worse. And I’m pretty sure paramedics wouldn’t appreciate it much, and neither would you suffer an emergency and live on the 3-4th floor, especially a stroke or heart attack- when minutes and seconds matter tremendously.

[@ArealMrsSmith]

@@bonnievandergriff8272 And let’s be honest- outside of a few major cities on the east coast, plus Chicago, a car is required to get most places in America. America has terrible public transportation in the vast majority of places- wether cities, suburbs or rural areas.

[@NanaRae2Three]

Love how you include history with your videos. Cheers from The USA!

[@Natashanjka]

Greetings from Russia to the USA

[@rameshsingh2480]

USA and Russia are bitter enemies.

[@lindaterrell5535]

At 73 old, id like to live in an apartment. But the rents would take upmost of my pension. Leaving me little for food etc. My house is paid for so I’m good for now.

[@vegasgirl3538]

Very interesting! There's pros and cons to both, but personally I prefer detached homes. I like my privacy and having a yard I don't have to share.

[@annebritraaen2237]

Even if you live in an appartment you can have a dacha en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dacha The combination of state-owned housing, public transportation and private foodproduction, helped the russians through the '90s

[@PurpleMintSam]

That feeling when a Russian KZbinr has better English than you do 😳

[@StPetersburgme]

No way!

[@bonnievandergriff8272]

@@StPetersburgme Way! Your English is very very good with only a slight accent.

[@julesdowner5585]

very true

[@Old-Dog00]

Russians are generally intelligent. They deserve better than what most of them have.

[@westcoastzoom70]

@@StPetersburgme Yes, your vocabulary and grammar are quite good.

[@pinkpastelhearts]

i am disabled, i would prefer to live in a apartment that is near stores and walking distance since i cant drive, it's easier on me and i dont mind apartments really. i also like to take public transit if i have to go to a doctor or to a another store on the other side of town. i know everyone is different, but im just saying my preference. i use a cart to put my groceries in and walk it back to my apartment with no problem. 🙂

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for sharing! Love from Russia!

[@pinkpastelhearts]

@@StPetersburgme much love to you too❤️

[@petramarishko]

The problem is public transportation sucks. And cities' administration's megalomania sucks too. They indefinitely expand cities and don't provide reasonable amount of necessity services. For example, when my son injured his jaw five plus years ago in Moscow we had had to go 30+ min by bus in one direction to get to surgeon to acknowledge we should go in other direction to dentist in this case. There was one hour trip by two types of public transport from that surgeon to dentist. All of them were city's service doctors provided for Moscow citizens by state administration. It was horrific experience in terms of traffic.

[@wa1ufo]

I am disabled to so I wish you the very best! :-)

[@james5460]

I've lived in a variety of houses/apartments. In my experience, I prefer living in a small house - not a huge one. Big houses just cause you to accumulate clutter and cause unnecessary expense. Apartments are confining and you're always aware of people around you and I don't like that. A smaller to mid-sized house is perfect for me. I'll take a smaller house in a better location any day of the week.

[@wholesome122]

Big houses only seem appealing to me if you have a large family to fill it

[@matty6848]

Which is why many western homes especially American homes are full of crap they don’t need.

[@youcanfoolmeonce]

I agree. A small house is fine if you don't have a big family and a lot of guests. However you need to have sheds to keep tools, equipment and stuff in. We have four sheds; two small ones at the sides of the house, a mid size and a large one in the backyard. I added each as time was passing and the number of stuff was accumulating. We probably have more sheds than anybody in the neighborhood. Also, bacause the house is so small inside and full of furniture, that the free space is very limited, which is good when you get old and walk around so you can find support in every step of the way.

[@matty6848]

@@youcanfoolmeonce true buddy. I have two sheds in my garden or yard as Americans Callum it and they are used purely for storage for garden equipment, nothing more.

[@joarvat]

Exactly. I've come to the conclusion that I'm happier the less I have - until a point.

[@k.b6567]

Hi just found you, wow your very good at explaining about your way of life in Russia, Moscow, your English is excellent 👌 I will backtrack on your vids, and look forward to future vids , love from Liverpool U.k

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you so much! I hope some day I can visit Liverpool!

[@marthapernie2205]

This is the first video I have watched of yours. Your English is very good. I really enjoyed this and look forward to more. Thank uou

[@KanoonKaPitara]

I have lived in an Apartment and in an independent House. I would prefer my Independent House in City with its own lawns, gardens and backyard to laze around during summers.

[@jinpingthebear110]

If weather is shit all the time like in russia a garden isn't that useful anyway :)

[@waffelo4681]

@@jinpingthebear110 lol yea

[@StPetersburgme]

@@jinpingthebear110 It's not that bad in summer. People who have dachas grow vegetables and fruit like apples, pears, plums cherries. In Southern part of Russia people grow apricots and peaches as well.

[@matty6848]

@@jinpingthebear110 but the weather isn’t shit all the time in Russia. They have brutal winters yes, but they also have nice warm summer seasons. It’s not cold all the time.

[@matty6848]

@@StPetersburgme yes agreed. I’ve worked in Russia during the summer season and it was lovely and warm.

[@gracewright7938]

People who live in apartment buildings in Russia, spend less on heating. The apartments keep each other warmer in a frigid frigid Russian winter.

[@peterkotara]

That seems highly logical.

[@javadm1363]

I didn't thought about this you mentioned but you are right...I always thought because of communism period and social housing ✌👍

[@davypig571]

Javad it was because of communism how they were built. The cheaper heat for apartment dwellers is just part of the design.

[@ilyal5712]

In Ukraine we now have huuuge cost of gas and heating standalone house is veeery expensive. Winter month cost could be around two thirds of your income. That even leads to protest against government.

[@carltonpoindexter2034]

@@ilyal5712 It is going to get really terrible for heating costs and petrol for the vehicles here in USA with the new President and they are going to soon tax us per each kilometer that we drive. I think people will be moving to Russia very soon.

[@elizabethshaw734]

I am so sick of apartments! I am leaving one as soon as I can get out!

[@rachelphelps6347]

I prefer a detached house and if I could afford it a house with some acreage, since I was raised in the country! I would never want to live in a high rise unless I had to. I would worry too much about fires, and riding an elevator daily, and the lack of privacy, no yard, etc. Interesting to learn about other countries!

[@ForeverAlansGirl]

I lived in an old victorian house that has been chopprd up into 5 apartments. My neighbors beside me ( I had another above & one behind) had a 4 yo kid. This kid got up one day, lit the laundry basket on fire & went back to bed. The next thing I know is the fire chief kicking in my door as there was fire coming out of their kitchen window. I had a 3 yo at the time, but since then, this is the fear you have to put up with living in an apartment..not to mention noise, or bugs if they are filthy. And that kid, apparently this was the 2nd place he lit on fire.. that was the reason they got kicked out of their last place.

[@matildesantos4215]

And worry about a pandemic.NY was a disaster due to high population density.

[@carlapaz7458]

Time is our only treasure. I wouldn't like wasting my live cleaning a big house or not to be able to leave it closed when I need to travel. I live in an apartment in Barcelona and I love it.

[@samantham8696]

Why would you not be able to leave your house to travel?

[@bajemo359]

@@samantham8696 Security concerns maybe?

[@robwright5940]

Apparently in some parts of the world they can't imagine leaving the home locked.

[@elegantnoir6999]

A housekeeper can be hired to clean your home and a security system (plus nosey neighbors) keep your home safe when travelling

[@mariahsmom9457]

Same here. Apartments are easier and less maintenance, safety issues, break ins... easier!

[@-whackd]

I like to have my own land with fruit trees, and a bit of forest to relax in. My view is of natural landscape and not other buildings.

[@thegracklepeck]

This is the ideal in my mind

[@Natashanjka]

Oh, that sounds really cool

[@nilsarivera261]

Very well presented information.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you!

[@tammybrennan2040]

St.Petersburg - me 💜🇺🇸❤️

[@deb664]

What a wonderful history lesson! Thank you.

[@olgaluna6447]

Generally right history, but not too deep. The girl is young and only reads some history but not studies it. I would start with the late industrialization of the Russian Empire and then the speedy industrialization in the 1930s when millions of people from villages flooded cities. Then comes the post-WWII period and another flood of people from the countryside to cities. Though in the USSR still a lot of people lived in the countryside. People could find work everywhere including every village. At the same time, the main construction and financial resources were accumulated either big cities or newly-appeared towns where plants and factories were built. In the 1990s, the whole system collapsed - logistics, construction, legal system, political system, economic system.... Many plants and factories closed, many kolkhozes (they provided jobs, infrastructure, social amenities like medical centers in villages, schools, cultural centers, etc.) disintegrated. Most villagers lost their jobs and abandoned their houses moving to cities. And more than ever before, the big cities became the harbor of financial and material centers, including housing. I you live in the countryside today, it means that it's not easy to find a well-paid job nearby while the road infrastructure does not allow you to drive to the city fast. Who wants to spend 3-4 hours in a car to get to his\her work? Though many people in the countryside around large cities still work in these cities. So, this is largely a historical development. And only from the 1990s - the capitalist mode.

[@mondopinion3777]

I grew up on a farm long ago. I think the worst thing about apartment living is that it cuts you --and your children-- off from the natural world. Nature is the best teacher, and leads us toward knowing God.

[@ilyal5712]

That is why most Russians send their children to grandparents for summer time. That allows to have fresh air, natural fruits, spend time with grandparents, extra time to 'babymaking' to mam/dad.

[@marleneflourentzou680]

So true

[@tanyamarsh4392]

What a wonderful insight into Russian life. It is tragic that so many homes and buildings were destroyed during WWII, and I never knew that is what drove the big block apartment construction in the 1950’s. And, as others have stated, your English is very good. Please keep up your videos, as you are an Ambassador of sorts for Russian culture, which this American finds fascinating.

[@roromil2441]

That's not the only thing that drove the construction of apartment buildings. Another reason was the fact that communists everywhere were focused on industry and urban growth. They wanted to bring people from rural areas into urban areas as fast and as cost-effectively as possible.

[@johnsymonstcu]

Very comprehensive and informative program. I just subscribed as I enjoy your style of reporting and am looking forward to seeing more of your programs. Take care and have a pleasant weekend. 🤗❤🙏🌎

[@lauraellen189]

We had a Russian exchange student stay with us for a time. He seemed disappointed that we lived in a house in a neighborhood. He said he felt like he was in a rural area even though we live in a city. He was hoping he would living in a place that looked like Chicago or New York.

[@StPetersburgme]

This exchange student was just a city type of a man, may be ))

[@lauraellen189]

@@StPetersburgme Yes! A wealthy city boy 😉

[@FloridaGirl-]

I had an exchange student from Venezuela, and have been there many times myself, prior to all the rederic. They are structured alot like this as well. I lived in MIch at time. In the country on acerage. She ended up loving it out there. Then had one from Columbia. His family was wealthy, huge farms, servants. He acted like he was a guest at bed and breakfast. In Vz and alot of the world. The high rises also produce more security and safety. Houses had gated court yards or walled. I saw alot of broken bottles cemeted to the top of walls. To prevent people climbing it. The infastructure is alot different in other countries too. With service to trains etc. Personally. I like a private home. And preferably with some acerage. I’m a country girl. And hey, my grandfather is from Russia. Your English is really good! Good video! 👍

[@6thgraderfriends]

Yeah, people from rural and suburban areas are more likely to host exchange students because they're the ones who have an extra bedroom. People in cities usually don't. Ironically people from cities are more likely to become exchange students so urban vs. rural living is another shock on top of being in another country.

[@webcrawler5548]

I have a Russian friend who lives in Brooklyn and when she comes to visit me here in north NJ she says that I live in a village despite the fact that I live in dense populated area. If they don't see apartment buildings then they consider the place a village.

[@michaelflinn2791]

I much prefer living in my own home. I like the privacy.

[@ilcapitanoalexandr8698]

Your English it's very good, I imagine the effort you've done trough out the years to develop. Regards

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you so much! Yes, it was a long way for me. And it's not over yet. I always learn something new.

[@DavidErdody]

For 20 years I was the resident manager of an apartment building in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. It was a great way to live and meet people for life.

[@chivalryalive]

I was born not far from Chicago, began public school a moderate distance from Philadelphia but was fortunate enough to have grown up on a small lake south of Grand Rapids in the little town of Hastings.... Even though I've lived in 2 states and 3 homes since then... I still consider W Michigan to be my "Home"! --Best people I've ever known! :-) I currently live near the shore of Lake Erie between Cleveland and Cedar Point. Slowly this community is becoming more 'suburbanized' and losing its personality to Walmart, Wendy's, Best Buy and McDonalds. :'(

[@timsummers870]

At around 3:40 you make a reference to multi-story buildings in the US. Yes, that's correct. In the Bronx, NY, they built those so-called 'projects' to house low-income families and indeed they were a magnet for crime and thuggery. But in my opinion, it's nothing to do with the type of housing they were offered but, rather, the type of people that moved into those developments. Thugs will be thugs. Thanks for the video, I learned a lot about housing in Russia.

[@cathelinam9064]

Yes! You're from Russia! I prefer house. I lived in an apt when younger. Thank you for sharing your knowledge of your homeland.

[@scottduguay5668]

Very fascinating, on the average citizen level....not much different from Canada.....your English is phenomenal.....cheerz....from Victoria B.C Canada.....

[@diegoperez2090]

You could not be more wrong. Most of Calgarians live in houses, not apartments. The percentage of single family homes is significantly higher in Canada than in Russia.

[@zochbuppet448]

Very wrong. A typical lazy hanging KZbin comment that doesn't make any sense. Canada never had the population where it needed to herd a large percentage of people into apartment buildings. But exploitative sleazy condo developers are trying to do just that, in Cities like Vancouver and Toronto. You can now enjoy yourself in 60 floor condo building.

[@momoiroZoey]

"Why do russians prefer apartments? They dont" is the video in a nutshell hahaha i think thats similar in a lot of former soviet-communist countries. UK is a bit different though, the focus is on houses but they turn them into flats for financial gain.

[@lukasrojko5455]

My country Slovakia is former socialist country too. Now we are experiencing a boom in constructing family houses. Even developers built more houses than apartments.

[@atlasartemromanovich]

Dont be rude.

[@ThePuff_]

@@atlasartemromanovich how was that rude…

[@martinlugus7242]

An excellent review of housing in Russia - actually the best I've heard in one narrative. By the way, your presentation is extremely clear, concise, and pleasant. You have a new subscriber. Looking forward to more information on Russia from you in the future. Keep up the good work.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you so much!! It's so nice to know that!

[@waitaminute2015]

Agreed!

[@gabriellagirardi4741]

In Italy we prefer single private houses, even if also apartments situated in big towns and cities are inhabitated by citizens. We have also summer and winter houses. Our people loves to own them very much. Thanks for this video

[@mishih9189]

Great video and description! I am American living in Russia for 5 years and I like living in apartments and have little shops at the bottom of apartment building.

[@wa1ufo]

Greetings to you from New England! I enjoy your videos very much as it is great to learn about Russia. I live in a resort town and am lucky that my wife and I own our house. However here working people sometimes cannot even afford an apartment as the rents are very high. They have to share housing with friends or, in some cases are homeless. The rich and developers drive the prices way up so its very hard for working people, not only here but in other states as well. Please keep up the good work and thanks again!

[@shewhispers45]

I’m from the US. I have lived in apartments and single homes. When I was 16 I rented my first apartment. It was small but I loved it. My husband and I bought our home 20 some years ago and still live here. It is a single home, I would consider it cottage size with four bedrooms, three bathrooms and way to big for just the two of us. It’s cozy and comfortable. Here in the states many aspire to live in huge homes and beautiful condos or go the other way, in tiny homes or rent apartments. Your video was very interesting and informative. I really enjoy watching your channel!

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for watching and commenting! I would love to have the experience of living in a single house!

[@GUITARTIME2024]

That's not cottage size, that's mid size. Cottage is 3 beds and 2 baths.

[@teresanoel4035]

Just curious where did you were an apartment at age 16 and what year was that

[@shewhispers45]

@@teresanoel4035 So sorry. I just saw your response. My parents home had an apartment that was attached to it with its own separate entrance. They allowed me to move into it the year I graduated , 1982, to learn how to manage bills and take care of my own home. I went to school and had a job so I paid them rent and paid for my utilities. My rent was super cheap of course and I did rent it out until after my marriage and birth of two kids.

[@shewhispers45]

@@GUITARTIME2024 The fourth bedroom was created after we turned the garage into more living space but you are right. Our house is probably mid size.

[@irashishonkova8626]

An actual answer is easier. If you live in the city it's faster to get to your workplace. As there is metro, and other public transport. If people really want to live outside the city, they just move to dacha. Some do buy private houses, but the ones that are relatively close to the city and still private cost too much. And on the side of government-its much easier to keep infrastructure on a small territory in good condition, than to build in all around the freaking country. It's simply rational.

[@lidiyar5712]

Russians agree with you) We prefer cities and it's infrastructure

[@danditto6145]

I lived in apartments in New York and in California and it was literally my definition of hell now. I live in a townhouse I own in Republican FLorida now and it is paradise. Low costs, friendly neighbors, dog plays in the yard, government is something that is far away. Weather is just beautiful.

[@pinetworkminer8377]

Aren't violent crime rates very high in Florida? I'm talking about places like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Do you live in any of these three?

[@danditto6145]

@@pinetworkminer8377 Those three cities are full of idiots from California and New York, so they are not as nice as the rest of the State. Still better than New York or most of California.

[@bloqk16]

@St.Petersburg - me . . . at the 5:54 section of your video when you spoke of the items in the area around the houses and you were looking for a word to encompass that, the word you can use is *_amenities_* which describes aspects of the area that makes for a comfortable setting. Your English language skills are impressive!

[@strormef]

Thank you very much for this video. I always have this question but really never ask anybody. When I was in Russia I also lived in a soviet-style apartment. I never visit any detached house or townhouse and always wonder why most Russian prefer to live in the apartment. But what I love is that there're gardens around and lots of free space for public use and parks. Every city area in Russia will have beautiful squares and museums. I found that there're many modern apartments that pop up but still don't look much different from the old-styled apartment only taller.

[@junekroner6382]

I live in a house with a large yard, and I am happier compared to living in an apartment. I've lived in apartments for years. I never liked it because I felt closed in, neighbors were noisy and no garden and trees and forests, etc.. However, I must say that apartment living is much less expensive, as well as, when something broke or needed repairing I called the maintenance man at no cost to me. I loved that part of apartment living. It's worth the freedom and peace of spirit to have the expense of maintaining a house and garden/yard. Very interesting. I appreciate the history, etc..

[@chantalhoppenbrouwers3784]

i live in belgium and i have averry big house 4bedrooms big , 2big badrooms , a big livingarea and a big kitchen ,a big garden whit a koipool near chops I AM A LUCKY PERSON

[@StPetersburgme]

Wow, you are living the dream!!

[@carlapaz7458]

Who cleans it?

[@mlfmlf8755]

@@carlapaz7458 😂😂😂😂

[@priscillapascale1764]

Who cares?

[@debbieanne7962]

Here in Australia these multi storey apartments were also built in the 1960s. I myself live in an apartment and I am quite happy

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for sharing!

[@debby891]

Hello from upstate New York, thank you so much for helping us to understand what it’s like to live there, very informative

[@danielleshay1972]

Hi. I'm new here and it's very nice to meet you. I live in Canada and I'm very lucky to live here. I live with my brother in a small house with a very big back yard for our dog Blue. I lived in apartments all my life before moving here to the Yukon. I love watching videos about life in Russia. I find it fascinating. Can't wait to see more.

[@thenappyewe]

Great information! I have learned a lot about Russia housing from your video. You are right about developments in America. They became know as “projects” here in Chicago, and yes...lots of crime. They have been demolished in Chicago and other options were developed for low income housing. Thank you for your information 😊.

[@gottasay4766]

You are great! Thanks for giving us candid insights into a different culture.

[@karenkelly9532]

Your English is excellent. Enjoy learning about Russia and modern life in your country Greetings from Nova Scotia Canada

[@kellyemontana62]

Love learning more about Russia. Would love to visit some day. Thank you for your thoughtful video.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for watching! And welcome to Russia!

[@StPetersburgme]

@CCP Alcohol beverage called Corona the same actually happens in Russia right now 😢

[@farnorthhwy17]

Kseniya. Your English is excellent and the videos are so informative and fun. Well done! Thank you.

[@jw934]

I live in a small bungalow inside Toronto. I like it very much. My backyard is nice for 3 seasons, but not used very much in the winter except by my dog. Sometime I camp in my backyard but only when the temperature falls below -20C and I pretend I am in Siberia. If I get too cold to sleep then I just go inside the house. I went to St. Petersburg twice and I think it is a lovely city. Highlight for me was lunch at Russian Ampir once each time.

[@donnagraves746]

Just came across your channel wonderful English & thanks for teaching us about Russia ✌🏻

[@Natashanjka]

Я жила в частном доме. И между квартирой и частным домом я выбираю квартиру: в доме если крыша прохудилась - делаешь сам, а тут сделает управляющая компания. Плюс в частном доме надо самим следить абсолютно за всем, плюс огород, плюс ещё может какие моменты. Мне, работающей с 9 до 9 и даже с уроками по субботам и воскресеньям, некогда будет следить за домом вообще. На ремонт в своей-то квартире денег нет, а ремонт дома обойдётся в разы дороже.

[@m.a.5993]

I don't think people prefer living in large buildings. They have to do it because economy in Russia is bad, and people can't really afford to live in a house. Architecture and living conditions in whole eastern Europe is really bad... People pretend they hate US for example, but they crave that way of living.

[@margaritadaisy7174]

Very interesting video. I'm from Serbia and I live in suburb of Belgrade in the house with big backyard and I love it very much. Ten years ago I lived in a small town in big apartement. It was OK but I had always wanted to have a house so, eventually we bought it. Yes, it's much more demanding live in the house but it's much more pleasure also. Thank you for sharing. 😊🍀

[@Flap999]

When I was younger, I lived in apartments. As my family grew and I needed more space then we moved into single-family homes. Now I’ve retired and I’m living in a modest home about 1300 ft.² three bedroom one bath and I want out. I want a motorhome as I am no longer married I want to do a little traveling around America. I like your videos very much, this is one of the most important benefits of the Internet is that we citizens get to know each other and break down cultural barriers. 🙂

[@dejeriyoung9872]

Cool 👍🏾

[@seekingwisdom8]

I agree with your opinion about the benefits of the internet. Even before Covid, I spent most of my time chatting with my friends around the world. I became friends with many women in Ukraine and Russia, and a few each in Costa Rica, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Columbia and Venezuela. Through the different girls, I made friends with other guys that live in Germany, Amsterdam, India, and Great Britain. I love the intimate cultural differences I’ve discovered, but more important, I’ve realized that we are all the same. We all have basic material needs and desires, but most importantly, we all desire human connection. We all need to feel like we matter and we all want to love someone else. Like you, I am also retired, live in a 3 bedroom house alone, except I have 2 dogs and a cat. The closest I’ve been to living in an apartment was in a dorm during college. I could never live in an apartment as I play the drums, and I prefer the privacy of living in a house.

[@hannahj489]

I live in a small ish town in Spain and most everyone lives in an apartment. It is simply more convenient to go to the shops, school, or see friends. I personally love living in a house (and that is the long term goal) but apartments are by far and away preferred by most people I know. They are also considered to be less maintenance than a traditional stand alone house. L

[@bernadettedevereaux8694]

I live in Detroit where the majority of homes are detached single units. In older areas of the city where people of European descent settled and were accustomed to living in apartments, the apartments were large with spacious rooms and multiple bedrooms or flats with two or four family units. There was a housing boom in the 1950s and many small detached homes with garages were built. These houses were commonly referred to as starter homes. Once family incomes grew people moved further away from central city area apartments and starter homes to larger homes on much bigger lots to what eventually became suburbs. As a single woman, at age 34, I purchased a 930 square foot house with a living room, a large kitchen, two bedrooms, three tiny closets, an enclosed unheated sun porch and a full basement. It is spacious for a single person but the upkeep is costly. For example I have twice had to pay for new roofs for the house and two car garage. Last month I had to replace my 25 year old furnace at a cost of $4000. For three quarters of the year the grass must be mowed bi-weekly and during the winter I must shovel snow. Despite these burdens I still prefer single home ownership because I don’t have to conform to a standard dictated by a homeowners’ association and pay monthly fees for property maintenance.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for sharing! Of course maintenance of a singla house costs a lot. But I think it's worth it!

[@johnroddy8756]

I live in a house in the country side,I hate to live in a apartment or city.I suppose if you were born and lived from a early age it would be ok

[@naytee4507]

Not true. I grew up in a house but decided at an early age that I wanted to live in an apartment because a house is too much maintenance.

[@johnroddy8756]

I speak for myself not you. Its very true for me.We are all different in this world,That makes it a more interesting world.I respect you choice,but not for me

[@peppersghosttheater]

Grew up in a house. Currently living in one again. Cannot wait to leave the USA and this house to return to European city life, apartment, great public transport etc. It depends on the location. In the US a house is better because most of it has no functioning public transport. In NYC yes but in that case I'd opt for a central apartment. Regardless of size

[@johnroddy8756]

@@peppersghosttheater I can see your point,and my mother would be the same.I love DIY reared in Ireland beside a lake.worked few months in NY.The siren's drive you insane.I can look out and small nature.watch the seasons.Town five miles away.A flat we call in Ireland.prehaps no parking.Where could I store my trailers Canue etc.Plus get better value for money as in bigger garden to allow dog to walk etc.rented a house in the town for 3 years .noise,TV inspectors,Damage done to garage.clothes pulled off the line by kids.Never again 27 years in the country peace and quite no regrets.

[@peppersghosttheater]

@@johnroddy8756 I'm from Athy. Have been commuting for a few years. Covid stranded me but Ireland is way better. Although the TV licence, emersion etc I can do without :) Hope lockdown isn't too stressful for you.

[@DS40764]

Your situation makes sense historically and in the present; due to your weather and social economy situation . You are so humble and you probably are teaching people who are a little bit more privaleged in this way, to be more grateful. House ownership can be hard too sometimes ,if your house is less then adequate and is a money pit too ,and if you have taxes on top of that. Also it used to be where people started out in cheap apartments here in the Us and then renting one became almost as expensive as home ownership, so people want to get into a small home of course.

[@R.Williams]

Great video! Super informative. I've lived in both apartments and houses. When I was younger, apartments were fine as there isn't maintenance costs. When I got older, living in a house is much better. You don't have the neighbors right on the other side of the wall. However you have all kinds of maintenance costs. Ultimately it often comes down to money. Houses are definitely more expensive to maintain and initially buy. However, the cost of rent these days is horrendous. My daughter pays $2000/mo for a 2 bedroom/2 bath apt. And our mortgage on our house is $1053/mo. I look at rental payments as just throwing away money when it comes to such expensive rent! Lot of people have no choice. BTW, our public transportation sucks where I am and a car is a necessity. So whether you live in apt or house, most still need a car. Thank you for your videos!😁

[@pimentocheesesandwich3065]

I grew up in a house but we now live in a small condo in a city. Houses are expensive in the US, especially in large cities. We would love to live in a small house with a yard for the dog. Love your video!

[@StPetersburgme]

I wish your dream come true!

[@frod043]

You touched on so many interesting points on housing . What Russia has gone through in housing I think many cities are now considering doing..I think even if you wanted to you could not build fast enough separate one family house as populations grow or rapidly change ...perhaps it is a problem for future generations to solve.. everywhere not just in Russia..for the masses of people have to be housed somehow..And in the USA you have to throw in the politician factor also...which in the end only slows down the whole building factor and makes the process much more expensive . We appreciate your honest review on the interesting subject...

[@bertiesark]

Wow I’m surprised how tall your countries apartment buildings are, I’m in Canada we also have apartments but I prefer a one family home

[@jeffgolden253]

Ksenia, its a pleasure meeting you. My paternal grandparents and my 2 oldest aunts emigrated to the United States from Russia, but about 115 years ago. The area they came from is now part of the Ukraine. I live in the U.S., near Philadelphia. I prefer living in an apartment because I want just care for my own space. Let someone else take care of the outside of the building, the electricity, the plumbing, the heat and air conditioning, keep the water running, and take care of the grass and trees. Many of my neighbors are from Russia. Why do so many Russians, even after they get to the U.S., still like to live in apartments?

[@ndlsumr]

Thank you for sharing this information. I always find it interesting how living in other countries is different than America. Please keep posting videos like this! You speak English VERY well!

[@aminal-amin4146]

Dear Xenia I really enjoyed watching this video. Keep the good work on

[@lornewazny7152]

I lived in an apartment after I started working following College. It was ok but hated the cramped, small size and lack of privacy. I have owned my current home since 1991 and love it. I have always enjoyed improving it, adding amenities and new features. It is big with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and 3 large common area with a 3 car garage. I love my swimming pool and pool shed/cabana bar too. I enjoy my parklike yard and getting outside on a sunny day doing some gardening. I can't see myself in a small apartment again.

[@susanparker6223]

Thanks so much. Great video. I have always wondered about the housing situation in Russia and now I know!

[@SLEEPWALKINGINTHESNOW]

I live in a duplex apartment. I prefer it really. I don't have to worry about the maintenance or lawn care as the landlord takes care of those matters. It's just easier for me in my situation.

[@sallyhover8173]

I enjoyed your video! Much love from Texas USA 👋🏻🇨🇱❤️

[@jadwigabuczyk9474]

Why don’t you show an apartment? I like that apartments in Russia are for all people and not so expensive as in USA . They do look alike and they are concrete / is this healthy?/ but look nice .

[@dawnbolton6024]

I can understand why people choose Apartments in the USA. When you own a house you always have repairs that can be very expensive, taxes, yard work, and insurance can sure put a dent in your savings.

[@angelarasmussen1800]

The more America supported communist ideas the more the government created reasons to take more and more and more and more taxes!!! That's a big part of why you can't afford those fixes. The sacrifice for your own home is worth it if you can make it happen.

[@youtubetrailerpark]

I hear this a lot from my friends in the US when I tell them I'm going to buy a house as a reason to not buy a house. And I always tell them that they also pay the taxes, mortgage, yard work, repairs, etc. while living in an apartment. Just not directly. The landlord uses the rent money and pays the for taxes, mortgage, the landscapers, repairs, basically every expense associated with a house. And I tell them that the difference is that should I decide to sell the house, I'll get all that money back (just what the home is worth, not the taxes, etc.), and possibly more because property tends to go up in value. But with an apartment all that rent money disappears, never to be seen again.

[@glasslinger]

But you OWN the damn thing and when you sell it you get most or MORE than you paid all those years! I still live in the house I bought 40 years ago! (retired now) I now pay ZERO taxes, NONE! That is WHY you want to own a paid off house when you get old. You rent, it keeps on until they bury you! I bought my house for $17,000 and it now is valued at $500,000! All the repairs and taxes I put into the house over those years are nowhere near that amount!

[@robertagillis448]

Thank you for sharing! I live in a home my husband and I built in the country and love it. We lived in a mobile home until we could afford to build a house. It’s wonderful to raise children where they can run and build forts and have pets. God bless you. Washington State, USA

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you for sharing your experience! With love from Russia!

[@darkoostoja6706]

First of all Peter is one of the biggest cities in Europe with 5 mln people living there and it is the second economic center of Russia . No wonder that parcels are expensive as hell. I'm pretty sure that you could buy a small house with backyard in Rostov or in other 'milionik' for the price of an apartament in Peter. Another think is that in western Europe also not everyone can afford a house with private garden. On the other hand I can agree that in western Europe buildings are not built up that much verticaly.

[@777Ruslan]

now many people adopt what they came up with in the USSR: in some countries, they already use replaceable containers, prohibit plastic cups and bags in stores. perhaps soon many will move to apartment buildings. the fact is that living in an apartment building is more economically profitable. In most cases, all shops, schools, kindergartens, pharmacies, hospitals and other hairdressers are within walking distance. that is, you do not need a car, you do not spend gasoline, it is cheaper to take out garbage from such areas, and you need to lay fewer wires and roads to ensure this. The USSR had a lot of resources and even then did not waste them in vain. by the way, during the Soviet era, people got apartments for free. that is why many people in Russia prefer to live in apartments

[@HomesteadingWays]

That's too bad that more russians can't have their own home. I currently live in a very nice apartment, but have almost always lived in houses. Overall, your own home is better, but if you don't have kids or want the upkeep of a house then apartments aren't so bad.

[@noahriding5780]

Wow. Found your channel for first time. I'm interested in how they lived over there. How do they keep the rooms and housing from having the pipes freeze (and break) in winter? Some places in the world this can happen. Can you rent house in country side (rural) cheap? If you lived more rural, and farther out, could you then find it cheap? People here like to raise animals...like chickens, ducks, geese, etc. So maybe if we went over there we wouldn't like to be in the city. (But I don't think a house has to be new. Maybe old house can be cozy. Cheap is good.)

[@jeaniechowdhury6739]

This was so interesting!!! Thank you for explaining this Your English is excellent. Tell us more !

[@lorimiller2369]

In Toronto, condos are very popular. People can buy them and they often come with plentiful amenities. Those who choose houses often have to commute very far and the backyards are small with little privacy. I prefer the condo lifestyle for all the city amenities.

[@2023Red]

Thank you for the information. Your English is very good. Can you say the total costs for an apartment in St. Petersburg at the best location 2 bedroom. You can use euro or usd or Ruble as I can convert. We are American retirees who have been to your area to see Pushkin, a beautiful place.

[@debpartin8737]

In Russia I would rather live in an apartment but in America a house

[@gottasay4766]

Why?

[@debpartin8737]

@@gottasay4766 because in Russia everybody usually lives in apartments and they are made concrete

[@briarrose5208]

Your English is excellent. I enjoy learning about life in Russia with historical context. I live in Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA. My husband and I live in a private house in the suburbs. We have a small back yard. Housing is very expensive in this state. We are not rich but we are not struggling. We owe a lot of money on our house. It won’t be paid for in our lifetime. But we are happy and comfortable in a neighborhood that is very quiet and safe. Our neighbors are older couples like us and also young families. I can walk to a few shops, including a grocery store and also a small European market owned by a Polish lady. She has delicious sausage called kielbasa. We like to try food from different countries.

[@trolloftheyear7963]

I would have a very hard time living in even a 5 story apartment if I had to be higher than second floor. This is due to a fear of heights since early childhood. Also, Many people here have a fear of being in a tall building since the 9/11 bombings in New York city.

[@73Kaarn]

Listening to your great English reminds me of my travel through Europe and how the majority of people there speak multiple languages unlike here in Australia where younger generations struggle with just speaking English. Great information delivered with great English and a great smile

[@lisadobbie7109]

Just discovered your channel. I love learning about Russia. You do a great job! Great english language skills. Keep making your vlogs. Very interesting.

[@928gto]

You are appreciated, my dear.🖖 very straight, adorable Woman.🤗😘 .🧡✌

[@928gto]

I like Blue gear you're wearing. Thank You for all this nice work, educational

[@kcraig51]

This video came up on my recommendations. It's the first one I've watched. Very good information. You're a pro!

[@sassytbc7923]

Hi... I want to tell you how much I enjoyed your video. There are several channels that are run by Russians.. but you are the only one I have found that goes Into the background of your video. Very interesting content!!!!

[@pnorthable]

Your english is outstanding, I only wish my Russian was as good, should have listen to my Grand Mother more. As far as living in homes and apts, I've done both, Home is were your Heart ,Love, and Family are... Again thank you for your VBOG.

[@StPetersburgme]

Thank you!

[@wdchapman1969]

Me, my wife, and son live in a private house about 30 miles north of Dallas, TX. We purchased the home brand new in 2019 for $235, 000 dollars financed for 30 years. Our monthly mortgage payment is $1642 dollars. The house is about 2000 square feet and that includes, 4 bedrooms (we use one as an office), 2 full bath rooms, large kitchen and living area, and a 2 car garage. We also have a back yard for our two dogs. This is very typical of American homes.

[@TheKatyaSmith]

You've got a gorgeous property for very good price. Congratulations!

[@margaretfoster5143]

your video is very well done and very informative. beautiful english. thank you.

[@janicecoulson5388]

I live in a bungalow, a one storey detached house. On the edge of a small town. Your English is excellent.

[@anthonysinclair5721]

I don't know how your video found it's way to me but it was interesting , and your English is great! 👍

[@joarvat]

I have lived in both. And I MUCH prefer to live in a block apartment. Why? It is cheaper, more efficient for heating, I have basically no maintenance work, and I have SO much more free time! The only thing I would miss from a private house is a bit more space (why are all apartments so small?), and a garden to grow some veggies in. If people want to live in their own villas with gardens, cities become far too spread out (LA is for me a terrible example of a collection of suburbs looking for a city).

[@dlaitch]

You speak English better than most native born Canadians where I live! Great history lesson and all of the info you give is a learning experience. Home ownership in Canada in recent years is also not possible for the average person due to inflated costs of construction. Also greater demand as people left other investments to try and buy a home where no taxes are payable when a privately owned home is sold. As long as mortgage interest rates are reasonable, and permanent, owning a home is fine. Sadly, both homes & apartment costs are increasing sharply in most places. A great video ......my second one now that you did.

[@rehrbar]

Here in Switzerland most people live in apartments. Some are condos but most are rentals of very high standards, accordingly the rent is very high to! Many people would prefer to live in houses but land is rare and building standards extremely high, therefore making single family houses very expensive. At the present time a small new house with very little land starts at over one million Swiss francs( Swiss franc is about 10% higher as the American dollar). The upkeep and taxes also have to be considered.