5 States Perfect for Tiny Houses

Despite the name of the homes, deciding to go tiny is a big decision. And while many are thinking about how to downsize, something that is overlooked is the legal component.

Building a tiny house requires that you read the fine print of what is considered a livable structure. This can vary from state to state, county to county, and even city to city.

To help you find the states most suitable for tiny home living, here are the 10 most tiny house friendly states.

California

Unsurprisingly, California is considered the most-friendly tiny home state. California’s state legislation focuses heavily on climate change and minimizing their carbon footprint, this means tiny homes fit right in.

The dry heat and sunny days make the climate ideal for anyone looking to relax, not to mention 4 of the top 11 sunniest cities are in California! Of course, it’s not all beaches and waves in the Golden State; from the national parks to the glamor of Hollywood, every tiny homeowner can find the perfect place to call home.

When it comes to zoning laws, cities and municipalities are given free rein to determine tiny house legislation. As recently as 2020, alternative dwelling unit (ADU) laws were updated in the state, and some cities allow tiny homes to be classified as backyard cottages, making them even more feasible. On wheels or stationary, you’ll find the most freedom for tiny home living in California.

Oregon

This West Coast state has tiny-home-friendly legislation, and some cities are even encouraging people to relocate and go tiny. ADUs are becoming more common in Oregon backyards, plus with the high cost of living in most cities, tiny houses present an affordable alternative to crowded city life.

Though not quite as sunny as California, watching the trees turn colors in the fall is just as stunning, and winters bring some snow to this Pacific Northwest region. But if cold weather is your jam, you’ll fit right in! Not to mention, there’s a tiny house village right in Mount Hood, just outside Portland!

Florida

Tiny homes are great for relaxation, and no state does relaxation better than Florida. The Sunshine State boasts warm weather, beaches, and world-renowned theme parks. Families and retirees alike enjoy the benefits of living tiny in Florida.

When it comes to tiny house communities, Palm Island Park near Tampa and Orlando Lakefront are two of the most popular ones. However, minimum square footage requirements are determined by individual counties; Suwannee County, for example, only has a 150 square foot minimum for a home to meet regulations. Check out individual county policies to see if you have a chance at setting up your tiny home.

Texas

Tiny living is widely supported in the Lone Star State. Rural areas are often flexible when it comes to housing regulations, and major cities are embracing tiny houses more and more. Austin, Houston, and Fort Worth all have major tiny home communities. These villages focus on sustainability (community gardens and solar power are a common sight) and cultivating a sense of belonging.

Texas is also home to Spur, a city with less than 1500 residents that boasts being the first tiny-home-friendly community in the US! They focus on friendliness all the way around, they’re perfect if you’re looking for those cozy small-town vibes.

Colorado

In Colorado, tiny living is celebrated: The state hosts multiple festivals each year for homeowners of tiny houses to gather and connect. Communities are found all across the state in many different environments. You’ll definitely find the right tiny home community for you.

Like other states, regulations are determined locally, so be sure to read the fine print. A tiny house on wheels that may be permissible in one area might only be approved as an office in another.

North Carolina

This East Coast state is one of the best for tiny home living. There’s an abundance of materials and builders available, not to mention the views are breathtaking all across the state. Living tiny in North Carolina means waking up each morning to woods, mountains, and beaches; what’s not to love about that?

Acony Bell, a tiny home village outside of Asheville, and Coral Sands Point in Lexington are two of the most popular tiny home communities. Raleigh and Lake Norman are two other popular spots for people to set up tiny homes.

When it Comes to Living Tiny, You have Plenty of Options

While these six states are at the top of the list for tiny home living, they are by no means the only places from which you can choose. Tiny house communities are nationwide, and each is as unique as the one before.

The important thing is to pay attention to local zoning regulations. Read up on what minimum square footage requirements are, how tiny homes are classified, and where they are allowed. Knowing what sort of tiny living lifestyle you want is also helpful. A tiny home on wheels might have different regulations from a tiny home on a permanent foundation, and the same is true for a tiny home as a primary dwelling versus being a vacation home.

For homeowners everywhere, living tiny is becoming more appealing given the lowered expenses, eco-friendliness, and overall sense of satisfaction. Zoning regulations are being regularly adjusted to allow more tiny home living; there’s never been a better time to think about going small.