New Single-Family Home Size Continues to Grow
As people continue to use their homes for more purposes during the pandemic, including work, more residential space is needed. Recent data confirm this impact on the market continues to occur.
According to fourth 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 2,338 square feet. Average (mean) square footage for new single-family homes increased to 2,561.
Since Great Recession lows (and on a one-year moving average basis), the average size of new single-family homes is now 6.3% higher at 2,537 square feet, while the median size is 10% higher at 2,312 square feet.
NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz provides more analysis in this Eye on Housing post.
Latest from NAHBNow
Economics | Membership
Dec 19, 2025
2025 Census Survey Reminder: Help Us Advocate for Home BuildingMembers should have received an important reminder this week from NAHB to complete our 2025 Builder and Associate Member Census. Please take a few minutes to participate to help us develop education, advocacy and networking opportunities needed to help your business grow.
Member Benefits
Dec 19, 2025
Ford Announces Big Savings for NAHB Members on 2026 Model Year VehiclesAs a flagship partner of the NAHB Member Savings Program, Ford Pro has announced significant savings on eligible 2026 model year vehicles — up to $5,500 off. The lineup includes popular options such as Broncos, F-150s, Super Duty pickups, and Transit vans.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Dec 19, 2025
Existing Home Sales Edge Higher in NovemberExisting home sales rose for the third consecutive month in November as lower mortgage rates continued to boost home sales, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). However, the increase remained modest as mortgage rates still stayed above 6% while down from recent highs. The weakening job market also weighed on buyer activity.
Economics
Dec 18, 2025
Lumber Capacity Lower Midway Through 2025Sawmill production has remained essentially flat over the past two years, according to the Federal Reserve G.17 Industrial Production report. This most recent data release contained an annual revision, which resulted in higher estimates for both production and capacity in U.S. sawmills.
Economics
Dec 18, 2025
Inflation Slows in November (with a Caveat)Inflation unexpectedly eased in November, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) latest report. This data release was originally scheduled for December 10 but was delayed due to the recent government shutdown.