flophouses

A flophouse is a type of low-cost, short-term boarding house. These establishments cater to transient or homeless individuals, offering a minimal level of accommodation. Typically, flophouses provide a bed for the night, often in a dormitory-style setting where multiple people share a room. Amenities are usually very basic, with shared bathrooms being common. The term "flophouse" itself is thought to derive from the idea that patrons could "flop" down on a bed.

Historically, flophouses were prevalent in urban areas, serving as inexpensive housing for laborers, itinerants, and those experiencing poverty. They often operated on a nightly rental basis, allowing individuals to pay for a place to sleep without long-term commitments. The quality of flophouses could vary significantly, with some being relatively clean and safe, while others were known for being overcrowded, unsanitary, and poorly managed.

In modern times, the prevalence and nature of flophouses have shifted. While they still exist, many cities have seen a decline in traditional flophouses due to changing urban landscapes and housing regulations. However, the underlying concept of providing very basic, low-cost shelter for vulnerable populations persists in various forms of emergency shelters and transitional housing programs. The term "flophouse" generally carries a negative connotation, associated with poverty and hardship.