Quick Takeaways

  • On average, a tiny home costs less than one-fifth what a traditional home would cost.
  • A tiny home uses about 7% of the energy that a traditional house does.
  • Incremental growth is expected to reach $5.8 billion over four years.

Source: Tiny House Statistics (iProperty Management, Jan. 25, 2021)

Does size matter? The current economic climate as well as a desire for a greener lifestyle has driven some Americans to examine how much space they really need. The small home movement is hardly a novel concept—just ask New Yorkers who often spend decades in studio apartments. The tiny homes market has growth potential, but tiny house experts say the movement must do a better job marketing to their target audience and rebranding.

Tiny houses are affordable and an option for sustainable housing. Smaller spaces require less materials to build and use less energy. Tiny houses also tend to be built with recycled materials, utilize natural lighting, and other sustainable finishes.

Zoning is a hurdle facing many tiny house owners. Zoning codes vary and can be confusing. Learn about planning, zoning and building tiny houses.

See References for more information.

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