Apparently some sections of the ISS don't meet NASA noise standards. What I read was that this was a problem in the Russian-built sections. At the factory where I work the production areas are so noisy that sometimes we can't hear a forklift driving nearby. That's a serious safety issue. Also, we have to practically shout to talk to one another, using hand gestures and short, pointed word usage. I imagine wearing earplugs on the ISS could make communication between crew members difficult as well.

And Jacob, what you describe reminds me of the Gerrard St. East & Jarvis St., or Jane & Finch, or perhaps Bayview & Finch areas of Toronto. I'd rather live just about anywhere else, it's quieter, not to mention safer, elsewhere.