Ready to Roll with Your Own Home? Here is What It will cost!
Owning a home without breaking the bank, parking it where life feels right, and skipping the mortgage mess. Sounds dreamy? That’s the beauty of mobile homes. But before you hit the gas, there is one big question:
What’s the Real Cost to Buy a Mobile Home in the US?
Spoiler alert: it is cheaper than most houses and way more flexible. This article isn’t packed with fluff or false hope, just the truth, numbers, and some good humor to keep things rolling. So grab your cup of coffee, park your doubts, and let’s hit the road to affordable homeownership.
What is a Mobile Home?
A mobile home is a factory-built residence designed to be transported and set up at a fixed location. Unlike traditional houses, mobile homes are built on a chassis, making them easier (and cheaper) to move. Today, mobile homes are also called manufactured homes and are built to strict HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) codes.
They come in three main types:
Single-Wide – Compact, affordable, perfect for individuals or couples
Double-Wide – Twice the width of a single-wide, suitable for families
Triple-Wide or Multi-Section – More space, more rooms, higher cost
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Mobile Home in the US?
The average cost to buy a mobile home in the US has increased, with current (2024-2025) numbers higher than some of your cited figures. Most reputable sources distinguish between “single-wide,” “double-wide,” and “triple-wide” homes, and all agree that final costs often exclude land, delivery, and setup. Here is a quick overview:
Home Type | Average Price (Nationwide) | Typical Size |
Single – Wide | $60,000 – $90,000 (delivered), $78,900 national Avg. | 500 – 1,500 sq. ft. |
Double-Wide | $120,000 – $160,000 (delivered), $148,100 national Avg. | 1,500 – 2,500 sq. ft. |
Triple-Wide | $200,000 – $250,000+ | 2,000 – 3,600 sq. ft. |
Cost to Buy a Mobile Home in the US by Region (average, 2024 data)
Location is everything, even with mobile homes. Here’s how the cost to buy a mobile home in the US changes based on where you are:
1. South (Texas, Georgia, Alabama)
- Average Cost:
Single-wides $75,800
Double-wides $145,400
2. Midwest (Ohio, Michigan, Indiana)
- Average Cost:
Single-wides $84,400,
Double-wides $147,700
3. West (California, Oregon, Washington)
- Average Cost:
Single-wides $92,600,
Double-wides $168,800
4. Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts)
- Average Cost:
Single-wides $88,700,
Double-wides $142,400
Notes:
- The highest statewide averages for new manufactured homes are now in Washington ($164,100), California ($154,500), and Arizona ($148,800).
- In lower-cost states (Indiana, Wyoming, Ohio), averages are around $103,000 – $106,000 for a new home.
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Full Cost Breakdown by Home Type:
Let’s get details about the cost to buy a mobile home in the US based on the design and features:
1. Single-Wide Home:
Size: 500-1,500 sq ft
Base Price: $60,000-$90,000 (delivered)
Setup: $2,000-$10,000
Average national price: $78,900
2. Double-Wide Home:
Size: 1,500-2,500 sq ft
Base Price: $120,000-$160,000 (delivered)
Setup: $4,000-$15,000
Average: $148,100
3. Triple-Wide or Multi-Section:
Size: 2,000-3,600 sq ft
Base Price: $200,000-$250,000+
Setup: $5,000-$20,000
Average: $2,000 – $3,500
What Affects the Cost to Buy a Mobile Home in the US?
The cost to buy a mobile home in the US doesn’t stop at the sticker price. Other costs include:
1. Land Purchase or Rent
Land: $1,500 (Wyoming, rural) – $200,000+ (urban East Coast)
Lot rent: $300-$800/month
2. Permits and Legal Fees
Permits: $500-$3,000
Delivery: $2,000-$14,000 (depending on size/distance)
Utilities connection: $1,500-$10,000
Skirting/decks: $400-$5,000
3. Insurance
$300-$1,000/year (can be much higher in some states)
4. Financing:
FHA, chattel, VA, or conventional, depends on ownership of land/home
Financing Options and Tips
Wondering how people afford the cost to buy a mobile home in the US? Here’s how:
Loan Types:
- FHA Loans – For low-income buyers, backed by HUD
- Chattel Loans – For mobile homes without land
- Conventional Loans – Only for homes on owned land
- VA Loans – For eligible veterans
Financing Tips:
- Improve credit score
- Save for setup and delivery.
- Compare rates between lenders.
- Always check HUD compliance.
Advantages of Buying a Mobile Home in 2025
Buying a mobile home in 2025 is not just smart, it’s strategic. Here’s why:
- Affordable entry to homeownership
- Customizable designs
- Faster construction
- Lower taxes and insurance
- Eco-friendly and smaller carbon footprint
Verified Facts and Sources
- The U.S. Census Bureau in 2024 reported that the average price of a new double-section manufactured home was $148,100.
- According to ManufacturedHousing.org, about 22 million Americans live in mobile homes, and they make up 6% of U.S. housing.
- Modern manufactured homes (post-1976, HUD-compliant) are eligible for most mainstream home loans, but requirements vary.
Conclusion
Buying a mobile home today is more than just a budget move; it’s a smart lifestyle choice. Whether you are downsizing, starting fresh, or avoiding a big mortgage, the cost to buy a mobile home in the US gives you options that fit your goals and your wallet.
We started with a dream, freedom, affordability, and flexibility. Now you know that a dream can be your reality. So instead of just scrolling through home listings, take control and steer your way to a space you can truly call yours.