In 2023, the average size of a single-family home built for sale in the United States amounted to 2,514 square feet. Although in the past five years American homes have been shrinking, since 1975, they have almost doubled in size. This trend towards larger homes seems illogical given that the average size of families has shrunk over the same period. Why are American homes so large? Homes in the U.S. are among the largest in the world, only surpassed by Australia. There are thought to be several reasons for this, including the concentration of wealth in the country, and the deeply engrained driving culture which means that cheaper land outside city centers is easily accessible. Where are the largest homes located? The size of homes also varies regionally, with the largest homes being located in wealthy, urban areas and in the South. Large homes, or McMansions as they’re often called, are especially popular in Texas. In 2023, Milwaukee and Omaha had the largest average home size.

Graph and download economic data for Housing Inventory: Median Home Size in Square Feet Year-Over-Year in the United States (MEDSQUFEEYYUS) from Jul 2017 to Feb 2025 about square feet, median, and USA.

Graph and download economic data for Housing Inventory: Median Home Size in Square Feet Year-Over-Year in New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA (CBSA) (MEDSQUFEEYY35620) from Jul 2017 to Feb 2025 about NJ, New York, square feet, PA, NY, median, and USA.

In 2018, the average home size in the United States was 6,295 square feet, and the size of the average home is set to fall to 6,121 square feet by 2023.

Graph and download economic data for New Privately Owned Housing Completions in the United States, Median Square Feet of Floor Area for One-Family Units (COMPSFLAM1FQ) from Q1 1987 to Q4 2024 about floor area, privately owned, 1-unit structures, family, new, median, housing, and USA.

The average single-family house in the United States has overall increased in size since 2000. It reached its peak of 2,467 square feet in 2015 before falling to 2,299 square feet by 2022. Single-family house A single family home is defined as a dwelling designed to house a single family only. This means there are no common walls with other dwellings, the house has been built on its own parcel of land, and that it has its own private entry and exit to a street or thoroughfare. This definition excludes apartments, which are significantly smaller, and have actually been reducing in size over the same time period. Housing in the U.S. In 2022, there were over 85 million owner-occupied and 44 million renter occupied housing units in the United States. Single-family homes are by far the most common type of residential property purchased in the United States.

New Home Sales in the United States increased to 676 Thousand units in February from 664 Thousand units in January of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - United States New Home Sales - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

Graph and download economic data for Housing Inventory: Median Home Size in Square Feet Year-Over-Year in Erie County, NY (MEDSQUFEEYY36029) from Jul 2017 to Feb 2025 about Erie County, NY; Buffalo; square feet; NY; median; and USA.

Graph and download economic data for New Privately Owned Housing Starts in the United States, Average Square Feet of Floor Area for One-Family Units (HOUSTSFLAA1FQ) from Q1 1999 to Q4 2024 about floor area, housing starts, privately owned, 1-unit structures, family, new, housing, and USA.

The median sales price of an existing single-family home in the United States reached almost 389,300 U.S. dollars in 2023 – the highest price on record. The sales price has risen year-on-year since 2011, increasing by over 100,000 U.S. dollars between 2019 and 2023. Location, location, location Regional differences in the median sales prices of existing single-family homes were evident across the United States. The cheapest region is the Midwest; the most expensive region is the West. An existing home in the West cost over 100,000 U.S. dollars more than in the Midwest. Prices surge due to housing shortage A lack of properties on the market is one reason why the prices of existing single-family homes are rising across all regions of the United States. The shortage in housing comes despite increases in both the number of new single-family units being authorized by building permits and new single-family housing unit starts. Homebuyers in the United States will have to pay top dollar should they want a new single-family home.

The average American household consisted of 2.51 people in 2023.

Households in the U.S.

As shown in the statistic, the number of people per household has decreased over the past decades.

The U.S. Census Bureau defines a household as follows: “a household includes all the persons who occupy a housing unit as their usual place of residence. A housing unit is a house, an apartment, a mobile home, a group of rooms, or a single room that is occupied (or if vacant, is intended for occupancy) as separate living quarters. Separate living quarters are those in which the occupants live and eat separately from any other persons in the building and which have direct access from outside the building or through a common hall. The occupants may be a single family, one person living alone, two or more families living together, or any other group of related or unrelated persons who share living arrangements. (People not living in households are classified as living in group quarters.).”

The population of the United States has been growing steadily for decades. Since 1960, the number of households more than doubled from 53 million to over 131 million households in 2023.

Most of these households, about 34 percent, are two-person households. The distribution of U.S. households has changed over the years though. The percentage of single-person households has been on the rise since 1970 and made up the second largest proportion of households in the U.S. in 2022, at 28.88 percent.

In concordance with the rise of single-person households, the percentage of family households with own children living in the household has declined since 1970 from 56 percent to 40.26 percent in 2022.

Graph and download economic data for New Privately Owned Housing Starts Median Square Feet of Floor Area for One-Family Units in the West Census Region (HOUSTSFLAM1FWQ) from Q1 1999 to Q4 2024 about floor area, West Census Region, housing starts, privately owned, 1-unit structures, family, new, median, housing, and USA.

Average Mortgage Size in the United States decreased to 397.52 Thousand USD in February 28 from 403.42 Thousand USD in the previous week. This dataset includes a chart with historical data for the United States Average Mortgage Size.

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US Residential Construction Market Size 2025-2029

The residential construction market size in the US is forecast to increase by USD 242.9 million at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The residential construction market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing household formation rates in the US continue to fuel demand for new housing units. Secondly, there is a rising focus on sustainability in residential construction projects, with homebuilders increasingly adopting energy-efficient and eco-friendly building materials and practices.
However, the market also faces challenges, including a shortage of skilled labor for large-scale residential real estate projects, which can impact project timelines and budgets. These trends and challenges are shaping the future of the residential construction industry in the US.

What will be the US Residential Construction Market Size During the Forecast Period?

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The residential construction market is experiencing a significant shift as the affordable housing trend gains momentum. The Federal Reserve's decision to keep the federal funds rate low has contributed to a decrease in mortgage rates, making it an opportune time for home buyers to enter the market. However, the housing supply remains a concern, with construction spending in the residential investment sector showing only modest growth. The labor market's current state is another factor influencing the residential construction industry. With a low unemployment rate, there is a high demand for labor, leading to increased wages and, in turn, higher construction costs.
Inflation also poses a challenge, as it erodes the purchasing power of home buyers and builders alike. The economy's overall health plays a crucial role in the residential construction market's dynamics. A strong economy typically leads to increased demand for new homes, as evidenced by the double-digit growth in housing starts and building permits for single-family homes. However, a recession can lead to a significant decrease in construction activity, as seen in the cancellation rate of housing projects. The Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions, inflation, and the economy's health all impact the residential construction market. Affordable housing programs, such as housing choice vouchers and fair housing programs, play a vital role in ensuring access to housing for a broader population. The construction sectors must navigate these market dynamics to remain competitive and meet the demand for new homes.
The US residential construction market is seeing significant shifts, driven by various housing market trends. Sustainable homebuilding practices are gaining momentum, with a focus on energy-efficient homes and green building materials. Modular construction and prefab housing are becoming increasingly popular for their cost-effective and timely solutions. Urban redevelopment projects are revitalizing city areas, while suburban expansion is fueling demand for new homes. Affordable housing projects are crucial in addressing housing shortages, and real estate investment continues to thrive in these sectors. Smart home integration is also on the rise, with luxury home construction embracing high-tech features. The impact of mortgage rates, coupled with multifamily housing growth and home renovation demand, adds complexity to the market's dynamics.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Apartments and condominiums
  Villas
  Other types


Type

  New construction
  Renovation


Application

  Single family
  Multi-family


Geography

  US

By Product Insights

The apartments and condominiums segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The residential construction market in the US is experiencing growth in the apartment and condominium sectors, driven by shifting preferences and lifestyle choices. Urbanization is a significant factor fueling this trend, as more individuals opt for the conveniences and amenities offered in urban areas. As a result, developers are constructing modern, sustainable, and community-focused living spaces in the form of high-rise apartment buildings and condominium complexes. These structures cater to various demographics, including intergenerational groups and younger generations, reflecting diverse living circumstances. The labor economy and vaccination rates have also contributed to the continued activity in the residential sector, allowing for steady progress in construction projects. While the non-residential sector has faced challenges, the residential sector remains a vi

Graph and download economic data for Housing Inventory: Median Home Size in Square Feet Year-Over-Year in Suffolk County, NY (MEDSQUFEEYY36103) from Jul 2017 to Feb 2025 about Suffolk County, NY; New York; square feet; NY; median; and USA.

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Residential Real Estate Market Size 2024-2028

The residential real estate market size is forecast to increase by USD 482.1 billion at a CAGR of 4.6% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand from a growing population and urbanization trends. This demand is further fueled by marketing initiatives from real estate developers and agents, who are leveraging digital platforms and creative campaigns to attract buyers. However, regulatory uncertainty poses a challenge to market growth, with varying regulations and policies in different regions impacting investment decisions. For companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities, it is essential to stay informed of regulatory changes and adapt strategies accordingly. Additionally, collaboration with local experts and partnerships with regulatory bodies can help navigate complex regulatory landscapes and ensure compliance. Overall, the market presents significant opportunities for growth, but requires a strategic approach to address regulatory challenges and effectively target demand. Companies that can navigate these challenges and adapt to local market conditions will be well-positioned to succeed in this dynamic market.

What will be the Size of the Residential Real Estate Market during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe market continues to exhibit activity, driven by strong economic fundamentals and population growth. In nominal terms, the market size reached an all-time high in the latest fiscal year, with discerning buyers demonstrating continued interest in spacious accommodations. However, macroeconomic headwinds, such as rising interest rates and inflation, pose challenges for some potential homebuyers. Economic factors, including GDP per capita and purchasing power, remain essential support for the housing market. Despite these conditions, property launches in the luxury residential sector have shown resilience, catering to the demand for high-end living spaces. Residential construction remains a critical component of the market, with new housing units being added to meet the growing demand for homes. Overall, the market is expected to remain a significant contributor to the economy, offering opportunities for both investors and homebuyers.

How is this Residential Real Estate Industry segmented?

The residential real estate industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. Mode Of BookingSalesRental/LeaseTypeApartments and condominiumsLanded houses and villasGeographyAPACChinaJapanNorth AmericaUSEuropeGermanyUKSouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Mode Of Booking Insights

The sales segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

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The Sales segment was valued at USD 896.60 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 54% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region held the largest market share in 2023 and is anticipated to continue leading the market growth during the forecast period. Key drivers of this expansion include population growth and increasing purchasing power, leading to a in demand for spacious accommodations. Rapid urbanization and economic fundamentals, such as GDP per capita, have fueled the construction of new housing units, particularly in countries like India and China. Furthermore, domestic demand and foreign homebuyers have contributed to the unsold inventory overhang, creating investment opportunities in underconstruction properties. Despite these positive indicators, challenges persist, including affordability concerns and critical input costs. In the context of the US housing market, the residential real estate sector offers investment opportunities through traditional options, such as home ownership and rental cash flow, as well as low-risk methods, like investment portfolios. Key economic factors, such as interest rates and supply metrics, impact residential property prices, which may vary in real and nominal terms. The market is also influenced by changing consumer preferences, regulatory reforms, and technological transformation, including home automation and cutting-edge strategies.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holi

The average construction cost of a single-family home in the United States was about 428,000 U.S. dollars in 2024, about 36,000 U.S. dollars more expensive than in 2022. The source also adds that interior finishes – which includes insulation, flooring, and appliances – accounted for the largest share of costs at 24 percent. U.S. housing construction slows Construction work was underway on over 1,000 single-family housing units in the United States in 2024. This number increased year-on-year between 2011 and 2021, followed by a notable decline in the next two years. Despite this trend, the industry experts are optimistic about construction levels picking up until 2026. The median size of a new single-family home has also shrunk. In 2023, the average home had approximately 2,300 square feet of floor space, about 200 square feet less than in 2015.
How many homes are sold each year in the United States? Less than five million homes were sold in the United States in 2023, the majority of which were existing home sales. The median sales price of an existing single-family home was 389,000 U.S. dollars in that year, a figure that has risen steadily since 2011. Those in the market for a newly constructed single-family home will have to pay more, with the median sales price at 427,000 U.S. dollars in 2022.

Graph and download economic data for Housing Inventory: Median Home Size in Square Feet Year-Over-Year in New Philadelphia-Dover, OH (CBSA) (MEDSQUFEEYY35420) from Jul 2017 to Feb 2025 about New Philadelphia, square feet, OH, median, and USA.

In 2018, all homes in the United States measured 256.71 billion square feet, and the total square footage of homes is set to reach 256.71 billion square feet by 2023.

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ DISCLAIMER BEFORE USING DATA. To reduce the energy burden on income-qualified households within New York State, NYSERDA offers the EmPower New York (EmPower) program, a retrofit program that provides cost-effective electric reduction measures (i.e., primarily lighting and refrigerator replacements), and cost-effective home performance measures (i.e., insulation air sealing, heating system repair and replacments, and health and safety measures) to income qualified homeowners and renters. Home assessments and implementation services are provided by Building Performance Institute (BPI) Goldstar contractors to reduce energy use for low income households. This data set includes energy efficiency projects completed since January 2018 for households with income up to 60% area (county) median income. D I S C L A I M E R: Estimated Annual kWh Savings, Estimated Annual MMBtu Savings, and First Year Energy Savings $ Estimate represent contractor reported savings derived from energy modeling software calculations and not actual realized energy savings. The accuracy of the Estimated Annual kWh Savings and Estimated Annual MMBtu Savings for projects has been evaluated by an independent third party. The results of the impact analysis indicate that, on average, actual savings amount to 54 percent of the Estimated Annual kWh Savings and 70 percent of the Estimated Annual MMBtu Savings. The analysis did not evaluate every single project, but rather a sample of projects from 2007 and 2008, so the results are applicable to the population on average but not necessarily to any individual project which could have over or under achieved in comparison to the evaluated savings. The results from the impact analysis will be updated when more recent information is available. Some reasons individual households may realize savings different from those projected include, but are not limited to, changes in the number or needs of household members, changes in occupancy schedules, changes in energy usage behaviors, changes to appliances and electronics installed in the home, and beginning or ending a home business. For more information, please refer to the Evaluation Report published on NYSERDA’s website at: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/-/media/Files/Publications/PPSER/Program-Evaluation/2012ContractorReports/2012-EmPower-New-York-Impact-Report.pdf. This dataset includes the following data points for projects completed after January 1, 2018: Reporting Period, Project ID, Project County, Project City, Project ZIP, Gas Utility, Electric Utility, Project Completion Date, Total Project Cost (USD), Pre-Retrofit Home Heating Fuel Type, Year Home Built, Size of Home, Number of Units, Job Type, Type of Dwelling, Measure Type, Estimated Annual kWh Savings, Estimated Annual MMBtu Savings, First Year Modeled Energy Savings $ Estimate (USD). How does your organization use this dataset? What other NYSERDA or energy-related datasets would you like to see on Open NY? Let us know by emailing OpenNY@nyserda.ny.gov.