Why Americans Buy Too Big Homes: A Deep Dive into the Cult of Spaciousness

Introduction:

The cultural preference for large homes in the United States is a phenomenon that goes beyond mere personal choice. It reflects a combination of geographical factors, zoning regulations, and lifestyle preferences.

The Size of the American Landscape

The United States is the third or fourth largest country in the world, with vast stretches of unpopulated land. This expansive geography has influenced the design and size of homes, leading to a preference for spacious living spaces.

The Economics of Land

One primary reason for building large homes is the low cost of land. In many areas, particularly in rural and suburban regions, land is cheaper compared to in cities. This affordability encourages the construction of larger homes, even for individuals who might not need such extensive space.

Single Family Residence Dominance

Housing policies in the United States have often favored single-family residences over other types of housing. This is reflected in zoning regulations that often limit the types of housing that can be built, making it easier to construct larger homes. However, this preference can lead to a lack of more compact and diverse housing options, such as duplexes, fourplexes, and mid-rise apartments.

The Effect of Car Culture

With a strong car-centric culture, the need for large homes is amplified. Cars require ample parking spaces, which necessitate larger lots and more land for each home. Furthermore, the infrastructure built to accommodate cars leads to sprawl, making it difficult to rely on alternatives like public transportation.

The Missing Middle Housing Concept

To address the imbalance, the concept of Missing Middle Housing has gained prominence. This concept advocates for a variety of housing types that can coexist in residential areas, such as:

Duplexes and fourplexes Bungalow courts Built at two to four stories high with shops on the ground floor Credit: Cole Jackson (CC0 via Wikimedia Commons)

Challenges with Zoning Regulations

Despite the benefits of Missing Middle Housing, zoning regulations can be restrictive. Single-use zoning, which separates residential, commercial, and industrial areas, limits the diversity of housing types. This can lead to a lack of social interaction and access to amenities, as seen in the suburbs, where shopping and other activities often require driving.

The Impact of Zoning on Communities

Single-family zoning regulations can have significant impacts on communities, particularly when it comes to affordability and social dynamics:

High Costs: Large minimum lot sizes, such as a third of an acre, can exclude low-income and minority families. Car Dependence: With plenty of parking spaces, there's no incentive to use public transportation, making cars a necessity for every household. Suburban Sprawl: The need for more land and spaces can lead to more spread-out communities, increasing the distances between homes and public amenities. Limited Options: Developers prefer to maximize profit by selling as many houses as possible, often at the expense of community amenities like parks.

The Case Study: Living in a Fourplex

I share my experience of living in a fourplex, which is a much more sociable and efficient living arrangement:

No Front Yard: No need for extensive lawn maintenance. Shared Backyard: Great for community activities. Convenience: All essential amenities are within walking distance. Public Transport: Excellent public transit options make it easy to travel.

While a fourplex might not be ideal for raising children, it offers a more efficient and sociable living arrangement for those who prefer a tightly-knit community.

Conclusion

The American preference for large homes is a complex issue influenced by geography, economics, and cultural norms. Moving towards more flexible zoning regulations and embracing Missing Middle Housing can create more diverse, efficient, and inclusive living environments.