Discover the surprising reason why the 13th floor is missing in many New York City buildings. Learn about the superstitions behind it and how it impacts property owners and tenants.
If you’ve ever ridden an elevator in New York City, you might have noticed something curious: the 13th floor is often missing. It’s a phenomenon that has puzzled many, and there’s an interesting explanation behind it.
In a 2020 study by StreetEasy, it was revealed that over 90 percent of residential buildings in New York City are missing the 13th floor. Instead, they use alternatives like ’12A’ or skip directly from the 12th to the 14th floor. Similarly, Otis Elevator reported that 85 percent of elevators in NYC also lack a 13th-floor button, often replacing it with storage space.
The Superstition Behind the Missing Floor
The absence of the 13th floor is largely rooted in superstition. The number 13 has long been considered unlucky, a belief that extends far beyond architecture. This superstition, known as triskaidekaphobia, dates back centuries. Some trace it to religious connotations, with Judas being the 13th guest at the Last Supper, while others believe it stems from the fact that there are only 12 months in a year, making the number 13 feel unfamiliar and unsettling.
Interestingly, a 2007 Gallup poll found that 13 percent of people would feel “uneasy” staying on the 13th floor, which is why many property developers and hotel owners have opted to skip the floor altogether.
The Business Impact of Skipping the 13th Floor
From a business perspective, avoiding the 13th floor seems to be a strategic move. As architectural historian Andrew Alpern explained, some landlords might have discovered that potential renters were hesitant to rent on the 13th floor. To avoid losing tenants, they began skipping it altogether, and the trend eventually became a standard practice.
TV host Andy Cohen shared his experience of living in a West Village duplex that went from floor 12 to 14, saying, “It was weird enough for me to get my head around it. But imagine trying to explain it to my kids who are learning to count!”
Buildings That Keep the 13th Floor
Despite the superstition, not all buildings in New York skip the 13th floor. Famous landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Flatiron Building proudly include the 13th floor, proving that not everyone is bound by triskaidekaphobia.
In the end, it’s clear that whether it’s for tradition, superstition, or business strategy, the missing 13th floor has become a quirky part of New York’s skyline.
