Condos are a great choice for people who want to live closer to work, have a shorter commute time and contribute less to congestion on the road. They also offer a curated lifestyle and efficient living arrangements that can help people save money on housing expenses. These factors make them attractive to many homebuyers.

However, some homeowners are surprised to learn that condos can be quite expensive to live in. The reason behind this is because condos have a higher cost per square foot than single-family homes. Also, condo fees include a number of utilities and costs that are shared by all residents of the building. In addition, condo fees can sometimes include HOA rules that provide mandatory guidance on everything from what to cook for dinner to how much noise one can make during the day.

Another factor that increases the price of condos is their location and amenities. For example, a luxury condo with indoor heated pools and private security can be more costly than a basic condo in the same neighborhood that has no special amenities. Condos in popular areas also tend to be more expensive than those in other locations.

Finally, some condos are more expensive than others because they're geared towards specific demographics. For instance, luxury condos are usually designed with affluent individuals in mind. They may feature the latest technology and have a concierge service. They can also come with expensive countertops and hardwood floors. These features are aimed at attracting wealthy residents and thus have a high price tag.