Which Suits Your Lifestyle: A Comparison of 1 Story & 2 Story Homes
When it comes to finding your dream home, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to choose a one-story or two-story floor plan. Each offers unique benefits depending on your lifestyle, family needs, and long-term goals. Understanding the pros and cons of both layouts can help you make a confident and informed choice.
Your final decision will come down to what works best for your household. Below, we break down the advantages and challenges of each option so you can determine which home style fits your lifestyle.
Pros of a One-Story Home
One-story homes offer several advantages that many homeowners love:
More Usable Living Space. Single-level homes eliminate stairs and reduce hallway space, giving you maximum use of your square footage. Open layouts often feel more spacious and connected.
Safer & Better for Aging in Place. Without stairs, one-story homes are ideal for young children, seniors, and anyone with mobility concerns. They’re also easier to evacuate in an emergency and much easier for new parents who aren’t carrying babies and supplies up and down steps all day.
Easier to Maintain, Heat & Cool. Everything is on the same level—cleaning, laundry, and daily routines. One-story homes also tend to have lower heating and cooling costs.
Flexible for Future Expansion. Need more room later? One-story homes can often be expanded more easily with fewer structural limitations.
Cons of a One-Story Home
Even with their strengths, single-level homes come with tradeoffs:
Larger Footprint. A one-story home takes up more land, possibly requiring a larger lot and leaving less yard space.
Less Privacy. Windows sit at street level, and all bedrooms are on the same floor—which may not be ideal for larger families.
Fewer Layout Options. Because everything must fit on one level, features like lofts or additional bathrooms may be limited.
Pros of a Two-Story Home
Two-story homes remain extremely popular—and for good reason:
Lower Cost to Build. With less foundation and roofing needed, two-story homes typically cost less to construct.
More Yard & Better Views. A smaller footprint gives you more outdoor space. Second-floor windows also offer more privacy and scenic views.
Clear Separation of Spaces. Perfect if you want bedrooms upstairs and entertainment or work spaces downstairs. Teens and larger families often appreciate the added privacy.
Cons of a Two-Story Home
Consider these challenges:
Safety Concerns. Stairs can be dangerous for children, seniors, and anyone with mobility limitations.
Higher Maintenance & HVAC Costs. Two-story homes generally require more frequent exterior maintenance. Heating and cooling can also be less efficient since heat rises.
More Noise Between Floors. Activity upstairs can be heard downstairs and vice versa, depending on construction and layout.
Is a One- or Two-Story Home Better for You?
Your ideal home depends on how you live today—and how you expect life to look in the years ahead. Consider:
- Do you prefer one-story or two-story layouts?
- How long do you plan to stay in the home?
- How much yard space do you want?
- What level of privacy do you need?
- Are stairs an issue for your family now or in the future?
Contact Ernest Homes
At Ernest Homes, we offer a wide selection of one- and two-story floor plans designed to meet your lifestyle needs. Browse our communities or contact our team for guidance—we’re always here to help you make the best choice for your future.
