Ways to Reduce Atmospheric Noise

Thanks Elizabeth,
Primarily what I had anticipated but wasn't totally certain. The only difference is that I considered sheets of foam core and sound proof styrofoam being as it's light weight but now that you've mentioned it, so is felt. It looks as if I'll have to accept squeaking floors above me or otherwise move to a top floor apartment. If I mention this concern to my landlord he'll just shrug and tell me that its a frivolous issue. I would like to maximize the audio experience in this apartment by blocking out noise but by developing an acoustic environment as well. Is there a manufacturer who creates affordable but effective panels that might apply to my situation? Also, professional earplugs, could they at times be of help?

Yes, that totally explains the best approach to the problem in the kitchen. I'll opt first to place a floor mat of synthetic material under the refrigerator and then go from there. I'm also cogitating about placing free standing panels behind my electrostatic speakers. I like the acoustics in the gallery seating here in Cincinnati's Music Hall and while being in an apartment that's not exactly relevant to my situation , I'm nevertheless curious about what can acoustically be done to a room via artificial means.

Yes, I would buy a new refrigerator if I could afford to do so but I am saving for a good mono cartridge and the refrigerator came with the apartment. Fortunately I don't own a dishwasher or the noise levels would be twice as frustrating. I'm planning to visit ACE Hardware for a mat to fit under the refrigerator. Lastly, I'm wondering if velcro fastening styrofoam or something else along the ceiling wouldn't dampen the squeaky floor above me? Pleading for the landlord to hammer finishing nails along the noisy floor boards would just be futile.