How many stories does a high-rise building typically have?

A high-rise building is generally defined as a structure that has a significant number of floors, typically starting at five stories or more. This categorization arises from the need for the building to have characteristics that differentiate it from lower structures, particularly in terms of architectural design, construction methods, and the systems used for elevators and fire safety.

Buildings that are classified as high-rises often necessitate specialized engineering solutions due to their height, and this typically begins at a minimum of five stories. A high-rise must be sufficiently tall to impact the surrounding environment, including factors such as wind loads, structural integrity, and access to sunlight, which are considerations that become more pronounced as buildings rise above this height threshold.

This definition aligns with urban planning and zoning laws in many locations, which often define high-rise structures with a minimum of five stories. Thus, classifying a high-rise as having five stories or more is consistent with industry practices and building codes, reinforcing why this is the correct answer.