Home Size – the Ideal Square Footage for Your Family
When it comes to buying a new home, the trend often leans toward “bigger is better.” Across the country, newly built homes have grown significantly in size. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average size of a new home in the United States increased from 1,660 square feet in 1973 to 2,687 square feet in 2015 — an impressive 62% jump.
For many families, a larger home offers appealing benefits: more bedrooms, additional bathrooms, flexible living areas, and plenty of space for storage or hobbies. But bigger isn’t always better for everyone. The ideal home size depends on your lifestyle, future plans, budget, and how efficiently the home’s layout is designed.
Benefits of a Larger Home
- Greater privacy with more bedrooms and flexible-use rooms
- Multiple dining and living area options
- Better storage and organization possibilities
- Reduced stress by giving every family member their own space
Challenges of a Larger Home
- Higher initial purchase price
- Increased heating and cooling costs
- More furnishings needed to fill the space
- Additional cleaning and maintenance requirements
How to Determine the Right Home Size
1. How do you use your space?
Do you work from home? Need a dedicated hobby room? Frequently host guests? Your daily routines help determine how much space you truly need.
2. What are your family goals?
Consider whether you have children or plan to expand your family. Extra bedrooms or bonus spaces can make a big difference over time.
3. Where does your family spend most of their time?
If certain rooms in your current home go largely unused, you may benefit more from a functional layout rather than simply more square footage.
4. How long do you plan to stay in the home?
Long-term plans impact your needs. Think about aging in place, school districts, and financial goals.
Layout Matters More Than Size
A smart floor plan can often make a smaller home feel larger. Open-concept kitchens, combined dining areas, and flexible bonus rooms create functional, efficient living spaces. Even bedroom size and shape can influence how usable the space feels.
For example, a well-designed owner’s suite may include room for a reading nook or small office, while an extra bedroom can double as a guest space and entertainment area.
Find Your Ideal Home Size with Ernest Homes
Every family has unique needs, and Ernest Homes offers thoughtfully designed floor plans in a wide range of sizes to fit your lifestyle. Whether you're looking to upsize, downsize, or find the perfect in-between, we’re here to help you discover the right home.
Explore our floorplans and communities throughout the Savannah, GA area, or contact us directly for guidance. Call us at (912) 756-4135 or send us a message through our contact page.
Your ideal home — in the ideal size — is waiting.
