The saying “The poor don’t buy houses on the second floor, and the rich don’t live on the 18th floor” may sound like a superstition at first, but it actually reflects practical thinking shaped by economics, lifestyle needs, and long-term experience. This proverb is often discussed in the context of housing choices, especially in high-rise buildings, and it reveals how people at different income levels evaluate risk, comfort, and value in very different ways.

For people with limited financial resources, buying a home is usually one of the biggest investments of their lifetime. Every decision must be made carefully, with a strong focus on cost efficiency and future resale value. Second-floor apartments are often less desirable in many buildings. They can be noisier because they are closer to street level, exposed to traffic sounds, shops, or common areas. Privacy is also a concern, as windows are easier to look into from outside. In addition, second-floor units may face higher risks related to security, such as theft, and may be more affected by pests like mosquitoes or rodents. For poorer buyers, these disadvantages can translate into lower living quality and weaker resale potential, making the second floor a risky choice.

Another reason the poor tend to avoid the second floor is long-term value. If financial conditions improve in the future, selling the property becomes important. Apartments on lower floors, especially the second floor, often appreciate more slowly and attract fewer buyers. For someone with limited savings, being stuck with a hard-to-sell home can create serious financial stress. Therefore, choosing a mid-level floor with better lighting, ventilation, and resale appeal is often seen as a safer investment.

On the other hand, wealthier individuals tend to prioritize comfort, safety, and quality of life over price alone. While high floors may offer better views and less street noise, extremely high floors such as the 18th floor also come with disadvantages that rich buyers are keenly aware of. One major concern is safety. In emergencies such as fires, earthquakes, or power outages, evacuating from very high floors can be difficult and risky. Even with modern safety systems, the sense of vulnerability increases as the floor number rises.

Health and convenience are also key considerations. High floors depend heavily on elevators. For wealthy individuals, time and comfort are valuable, and waiting for elevators during peak hours can be frustrating. If elevators malfunction or lose power, climbing many flights of stairs becomes impractical, especially for elderly residents or families with children. Additionally, some people believe that living too high above the ground can create psychological discomfort, such as feelings of isolation or anxiety.

Cultural and symbolic factors also play a role. In some Asian cultures, certain numbers carry negative meanings. The number 18, for example, may be associated with bad luck or unpleasant symbolism depending on pronunciation or local beliefs. Wealthy individuals often take these details seriously, especially when purchasing luxury properties meant to reflect status, harmony, and long-term prosperity.

Furthermore, the rich often have more housing options. They can choose premium floors that balance height, view, safety, and convenience, such as middle-high levels that avoid both street-level problems and extreme height risks. Their decisions are based on optimization rather than compromise, while poorer buyers must carefully avoid choices that could trap them financially.

In conclusion, this saying is not about absolute rules but about practical wisdom shaped by experience. The poor avoid the second floor because it can mean lower comfort and weaker investment value, while the rich avoid extremely high floors like the 18th because they prioritize safety, convenience, and overall quality of life. Behind this simple proverb lies a deeper understanding of how financial position influences the way people think about risk, comfort, and the future.