The median size of a newly built single-family home in the first quarter of 2024 was 2,140 square feet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. During the same time period in 2023, it was 2,256. That shrinking trend tracks with data collected by the NAHB and the U.S. Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction.
In 2023, the median size of a new single-family home was 2,233 square feet, down 9% from 2015
In 2024, the median size of a new home was 2,179 square feet, the lowest since 2010.
Why are homes getting smaller? For years they were getting bigger. Buyer demand for small homes is up, partly due to lower costs.
As the owner of a small home with what I call a “micro kitchen”, I have always felt that smaller is better. Smaller means less cleaning and maintenance and less space to heat. It can also mean less storage space for storing all that excess stuff.
When I look for houses that I would like to own I am always looking for homes that are smaller than what I have now. Yes size does matter. It really is a matter of personal preference. Space costs money and it takes time too.
As does the “micro kitchen,” it has an efficient layout. It is a galley-style kitchen that opens into a dining room. There is plenty of food prep space because of an antique kitchen queen with a pull-out counter just outside the kitchen. There is enough cupboard space but some of it is in the dining room. I have too many pots and pans and have started moving the cookware I do not use to some shelves in the basement.
Most people don’t keep a case of creamed corn and a large Dutch oven under their antique buffet in the dining room but it works for me.
One thing we learn from living in a small house is how to get the most out of verticle space and we learn to put our stuff away to avoid that cluttered look.
When searching for your “dream house” dream smaller and enjoy the advantages of having less house.
