The Tiny house Blog

Best Small Home Cities in the US

By
Jason Francis
Designed and built over 100 custom tiny homes, lived on a sailboat for 9 months, and loves to live life to the fullest with his wife and their 4 kids.
Updated on:
October 13, 2023
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If you are considering the idea of owning a home in the United States while departing from the traditional ones, there are several locations that are ideal for small homes. These homes can be duplex modular homes, modular homes with a basement, or even a minimalist house. Before you buy one, you need to know if the area you are interested in has strict or lax regulations, tiny or small home communities, and if it is prone to weather conditions that you are not familiar with.

Explore the best US cities for small homes and the unique features that make them perfect for you.

Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, is a mecca for those seeking a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle. With a strong commitment to environmental conservation and a thriving art scene, it's a perfect haven for small home enthusiasts. This green city encourages sustainable living, and you can find tiny home communities aplenty. Learn more about Oregon’s tiny home rules and regulations.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, offers a serene and picturesque setting for small homes. Known for its vibrant arts and music scene, it's the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the tranquility of nature while still being close to urban amenities. The city boasts a growing number of small home communities, and its mild climate makes it a year-round destination. Get to know more about North Carolina’s tiny home rules and regulations.

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is a thriving metropolis with a reputation for its eclectic culture. Small home living has found a welcoming home in this vibrant city, with numerous communities catering to this unique lifestyle. The affordability of land in the surrounding areas, coupled with the city's bustling job market, makes Austin an attractive option for those looking to downsize and simplify. Dive deeper into Texas’ tiny home rules and regulations.

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Photo by Lona on Unsplash

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, Colorado, is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Rocky Mountains. The city is a champion of sustainable living, offering a range of small home communities and eco-friendly initiatives. With a strong sense of community, Boulder provides the perfect backdrop for a downsized yet enriched life. Explore Colorado’s tiny home rules and regulations for more insights.

San Francisco, California

While San Francisco may not be the first city that comes to mind for small homes due to its high real estate prices, it's essential to consider the tiny house movement within the greater Bay Area. Innovative solutions like accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and shared housing initiatives are making it possible to embrace the small home lifestyle in the city while still enjoying its abundant job opportunities and cultural offerings. Discover more about California’s tiny home rules and regulations.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is renowned for its tech boom and stunning natural surroundings, and it's also a hub for the small house movement. With the Pacific Northwest's eco-conscious vibe, you'll find many small home communities around the city and in its outskirts. Seattle's robust job market and innovative urban planning are attractive features for small home enthusiasts. Know more about Washington’s tiny home rules and regulations.

Ithaca, New York

In upstate New York, the city of Ithaca offers a small-town feel with big-city amenities. Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, it's an academic and cultural hub. Ithaca has warmly embraced small home living, providing various options for those who appreciate the beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Know more about New York’s tiny home rules and regulations.

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Photo by Alexandra Tran on Unsplash

Orlando, Florida

If you're seeking small home living in a sunny, tropical environment, Orlando, Florida, might be your perfect destination. The city's warm climate and affordable housing options make it an enticing choice for small home enthusiasts. With attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios nearby, you'll have plenty of entertainment options. Learn more about Florida’s tiny home rules and regulations.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and unique architecture. The city has witnessed a surge in small home communities, often designed to reflect the character of the city. Living in a small home here means becoming a part of a close-knit community with a deep passion for music, food, and celebration. Discover Louisiana’s tiny home rules and regulations to understand the local landscape.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers a distinctive Southwestern aesthetic, blending Spanish and Native American influences. The city is a haven for artists and nature lovers and has seen a growing interest in small home living. Affordable land, unique architecture, and breathtaking landscapes make it an attractive destination for small home enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Across the United States, you'll find numerous cities and locations that cater to the small home movement. Whether it's duplex modular homes, modular homes with basement, or even a minimalist house, there is a perfect city for you. Each has its unique features and benefits. Whether you're drawn to the lush landscapes of Asheville or the vibrant tech scene of Seattle, there's a small home destination aligned with your values and aspirations. Whether you're a minimalist, an environmentalist, or simply someone looking to simplify life, there's a small home and a welcoming community waiting to embrace you. Remember that communities are important when choosing a home.

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