New single-family home size has been generally falling since 2015 as a response to declining affordability conditions. An exception occurred when new home size increased in 2021 as interest rates reached historic lows. However, as interest rates increased in 2022 and 2023, and housing affordability worsened, the demand for home size has trended lower.

According to third quarter 2025 data from the Census Quarterly Starts and Completions by Purpose and Design and NAHB analysis, median single-family square floor area was 2,176 square feet, a decline from the start of the year. Average (mean) square footage for new single-family homes registered at 2,405 square feet.

NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz shares more in this Eye on Housing post.

The 2026 International Builders’ Show will also spotlight economic forecasts for 2026, including housing trends, from the NAHB Economics team. Check out these key sessions and more in Orlando, Feb. 17-19. Register today.