logo

How Close Is Too Close to Power Lines?

How Close Is Too Close to Power Lines
by John Carlucci - October 11, 2022

If the idea of purchasing real estate that is situated close to high-voltage power lines gives you pause, you should probably give some forethought to how this would impact the property's resale value.

You have fallen head over heels in love with a house that has everything you could possibly desire, including an open floor plan, an updated kitchen, and a beautifully planted yard. But the danger lies in the fact that it is situated close to high-voltage power lines. Right?

The idea that living too close to electricity lines is hazardous has been passed down from generation to generation. In point of fact, a large number of researchers have investigated the hypothesis that living in close proximity to power lines may increase the risk of developing leukemia and other cancers, as well as abnormal heart rhythms, miscarriages, premature births, and birth defects; the findings of these investigations have been inconclusive.

According to the findings of a review of relevant papers conducted by the Medical College of Wisconsin in 2006:

According to the findings of 46% of those research, individuals were not affected by being exposed to power-frequency fields.

  • 22 percent of the participants found that exposure caused DNA damage.
  • A total of 32 percent of the investigations couldn't reach a conclusion.

According to the findings of the same analysis conducted in Wisconsin, even those studies that do reveal a link between cancer and power lines do not give uniform advice regarding what distance or exposure level could be related to higher cancer incidence.

Get in touch with the power company in your area to arrange for an on-site reading if you are concerned about the electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) that may be released by a power line or substation that is located in close proximity to your residence. Using a gaussmeter or magnetometer, you may do your own measurements of electromagnetic fields (EMFs).

If the idea of purchasing a property near high-voltage power lines gives you pause when you're out looking for a new home, and you want to know what to do about it, you should consider how it will affect your ability to sell the home in the future.

Daniel Kim, a real estate salesperson in Long Beach, California, believes that power lines are an immediate deal breaker for some property buyers.

"As soon as they get out of the car, they'll tell [their agent], 'Um, no thank you,'" he added, pointing out that resale value is an essential issue, but your personal piece of mind is more vital. "If you are going to worry every time you look up at the power lines and hear some cracking, then I'd suggest pass on the property and purchase someplace else," the agent said. "Pass on the property and buy somewhere else."

How to create a backyard paradise with some ideas? Read our blog to learn more. 

MOST RECENT
Pest Issues in Rental Properties and Their Impact on Property Value
Pest Issues in Rental Properties and Their Impact on Property Value
Pest problems in rental properties aren’t just an inconvenience, they’re a financial, legal, and reputational risk. From tenant complaints to long-term damage and lost property value, how pests are handled can directly impact the performance of a rental asset. Whether ...
How to Warm Up Homeowners Before Asking for a Listing
How to Warm Up Homeowners Before Asking for a Listing
Getting a homeowner to agree to list their property doesn’t happen instantly. Most homeowners need time to build trust and see the value in working with you before committing. Jumping straight into a listing pitch can make them hesitant or ...
Interior Design Trends to Keep in Mind Going Into 2026
Interior Design Trends to Keep in Mind Going Into 2026
Whether you’re an experienced designer or simply trying to get more value out of your living space, there can be a lot of value in remodeling and decorating a home. You get the chance to put your own tastes into ...
5 Smart Ways to Compete in Seattle’s Housing Market
Do you want to outbid the competition, without losing your mind (or your savings)? Seattle’s housing arena is famously fierce. With limited inventory, rising prices, and homes flying off the market within days (sometimeshours), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But ...
Holiday Home Decorating Tips to Attract Houston Buyers
Holiday Home Decorating Tips to Attract Houston Buyers
As the holiday season approaches, the Houston real estate market often sees a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. While some may argue that it’s not the best time to sell a home, the festive atmosphere can actually work in ...
1 2 3 87
logo
Prudential Cal strives to provide the most detailed information about the real estate industry. We assist people in making the best decisions possible by offering unique insights into the global real estate market and advice for both homebuyers and sellers.
© 2026 Prudential Cal. All Rights Reserved.