FAQs
Nationwide, the share of new homes with two or more stories fell from 52% in 2019 to 50% in 2020, while the share of new homes with one story grew from 48% to 50%. New England was the only region that saw a decline in the share of one story homes in 2020.
What is the most common housing type? ›
The majority of homes in the U.S. are single-family homes. They're less common in highly populated areas and are typically found in suburbs. Single-family homes are usually more private and offer more options for personalization (barring any homeowners association requirements).
Is it better to have a one story or two story home? ›
One-story homes typically have fewer issues with roof and gutter maintenance due to their simpler design, while two-story homes may require more frequent maintenance due to increased wear and tear. Resale value and market demand can also play a role in determining which home type is a better financial investment.
Where are townhouses most common? ›
Commonly in the suburbs of major cities, an old house on a large block of land is demolished and replaced by a short row of townhouses, built 'end on' to the street for added privacy.
Why are American houses single stories? ›
There are several reasons for the enduring popularity of one story homes. Maintenance is easier — painting, window cleaning and other exterior chores can often be accomplished without a ladder. Families with small children also frequently favor single story homes.
What is the most common property type? ›
Residential properties are the most common and widely recognized property type. These include single-family homes, townhouses, condominiums, and multi-family buildings. Residential properties cater to individuals and families seeking a place to live or investors looking for rental income.
What is the most desired type of housing in the United States? ›
The most desired type of housing in America is B. single-family detached.
Why are townhouses becoming more popular? ›
Townhouses are an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers who want the convenience of living in a city or suburban area without the expense and upkeep associated with single-family homes. Townhouses offer more affordability than detached homes since they usually have smaller square footage.
What type of house do most Americans live in? ›
Single-family homes are the most common type of housing in the United States. Also, they are stand-alone family houses that sit on their own property and typically feature a private yard. Single-family homes come in various styles, including ranch, colonial, Victorian, and contemporary.
Why does the US have so many single-family homes? ›
Contributing factors such as increased personal savings rates, the rise of remote work flexibility, and historically low interest rates fueled a substantial demand for larger single-family homes.
Nationwide, the share of new homes with two or more stories fell from 52% in 2019 to 50% in 2020, while the share of new homes with one story grew from 48% to 50%. New England was the only region that saw a decline in the share of one story homes in 2020.
What are the cons of a one story house? ›
In a single-story home, all of the bedrooms and living spaces will be on the same floor. This doesn't offer the same level of privacy as two-story plans that can place bedrooms upstairs and even separate the master bedroom and kids' rooms.
Why are 2 story homes cheaper? ›
Theory: Two-story houses make an efficient use of the foundation, and roof by covering up to twice as much square footage as a one-story home would. The downside is that much of that gain in value is lost because additional unusable floorspace that gets absorbed by staircases.
What type of housing do most people live in? ›
Semi-detached housing was the most common accommodation type in occupied dwellings (31.5% in England and 32.1% in Wales), while flats, maisonettes and apartments were most common in unoccupied dwellings (44.4% in England and 25.4% in Wales).
What is the most popular form of housing? ›
The most popular form of housing is: single-family dwelling.
What kind of housing do most Americans live in? ›
Single-family homes are the most common type of housing in the United States. Also, they are stand-alone family houses that sit on their own property and typically feature a private yard. Single-family homes come in various styles, including ranch, colonial, Victorian, and contemporary.
What is the most common type of rental? ›
Single Family Homes. Single family homes (or SFHs) are the most common type of real estate. As the name implies, these properties generally have enough space to house one family and don't share walls with any other unit.