The coronavirus pandemic sparked an increased interest in tiny houses. Builders and material suppliers struggled to meet the rising demand. In the future, customizable tiny homes might not be the norm...
Tiny homes are getting more expensive
The prices of tiny houses today are vastly different than they were a decade ago. The median cost today is around $60,000, and could cost up to $180,000 for a family-friendly home. But, there is some good news — higher prices may allow tiny homes to be legalized across the US. Here's a look at the state of living small in 2021.
Complicated Zoning Laws
The Tiny Home Industry Association is working to pass zoning ordinances and building codes across the country to allow for the legalization of tiny houses.
The trials of tiny living
The tiny home and van life movements are often depicted as deliberate lifestyles taken on in the hope of positive change. But, van life isn't always voluntary and living small isn't always a vacation.
When they started converting their van, they figured they could do the project themselves, but they quickly realized they were in over their heads and it wasn't as easy as some influencers made it look.
This is a fate many tiny-house owners face across the US, as most local zoning codes categorize tiny houses as RVs, and you're not allowed to live in a recreational vehicle full-time.
For some, living in a camper van and traveling the US on the open road may seem a dream-like lifestyle, but for others, it is an unwelcome reality.
If you search "#VanLife" on Instagram right now, you'll find over 9 million images of people sprawled out in luxury vans, wearing bikinis, and parked next to picturesque seasides.
Small Spaces, Big Profits
Savvy entrepreneurs, artists and influencers have found ways to use tiny living to turn a profit.
What comes next?
The coronavirus pandemic has touched every aspect of life. And tiny homes are no exception.
Zack Giffin, the host of "Tiny House Nation," said the movement's main goal in 2021 is to convince more states and municipalities to legalize tiny houses across the country.
Jen Young predicts more glamping campgrounds and luxury RV resorts will open this year just as national parks become massive tourist destinations.