This quote appears in the first stave of A Christmas Carol when Scrooge is returning home after his day at work and dinner at the tavern. On one level, it shows us how Scrooge lives. He lives alone, in a building with no other residents and which has decayed over time. But, on another level, it gives the reader an important insight into Scrooge's character and the values he holds. That he would rather live in such a "gloomy" place than spend his money on a proper suite of rooms demonstrates the extent of his miserliness. That he prefers to be alone in this building, without neighbours, is illustrative of his cold-heart and lack of interest in forging relationships with others. 

More importantly, this quote sets the scene for the visits by the three spirits who will demonstrate to Scrooge the need for change. He can no longer live cut off from the rest of the world and hoarding his money. He must reform his character and his manner of living or the consequences on the rest of his life will be extremely dire.