Single-Family Square Footage Trends Higher in Third Quarter of 2021

More homeowners across the US are reporting a greater desire for additional living space to accommodate work from home flexibility. As a result, median single-family square-foot floor area increased to 2,337 square feet, while average square footage for new single-family homes expanded to 2,541 during the third quarter of 2021, according to NAHBNow. Spacious home design preferences in 2021 mark a shift from a downward trend in home size from 2016 to 2020.

COVID-19 has impacted the way many residents use their homes, with an increased desire for space to accommodate added functions such as working from and/or studying at home. Recent housing data confirm the continuation of this trend.

According to third quarter 2021 data from the Census Quarterly Starts and Completions by Purpose and Design and NAHB analysis, median single-family square floor area increased to 2,337 square feet, while average square footage for new single-family homes increased to 2,541. These metrics have increased 9.3% and 6.2%, respectively, since Great Recession lows.

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