Is Less Really More? A Look into the Tiny House Movement

Most working Americans would like to earn more money and have more discretionary income to enjoy the finer things in life, like fancy cars, expensive jewelry or a an extravagant home. In order to get these things, you have to work. Are the long hours, time spent away from family and the day-to-day stresses encountered at work really worth it? The daily grind of working Americans is so exhausting that many want to spend more time with family, have more money to travel the world, and most importantly, work less. So what's the solution?

The tiny house movement is the answer. Although not for everyone, this counterculture movement offers more than you think. Tiny living is appealing for many reasons, one of which includes saving more money. Not only do 55% of tiny homeowners have more savings in the bank than the average American, but also the average tiny home costs $23,000 to build. No, this is not a joke!

Other and more popular reasons to live tiny include environmental concerns, financial burdens, and the desire for more time and freedom. This movement isn't just about sacrifice, because tiny homes come in all shapes and sizes. Building your tiny home means putting personal touches onto everything, and with the average size being 100- 400 square feet, creative ideas are endless.

Around the country, many states are paving the way to make tiny living more accessible. This year in April, Nantucket voters approved zoning laws for tiny houses on wheels. This is the first community in Massachusetts to approve zoning for tiny homes, and the rest of Cape Cod isn't far behind. In Sandwich, Scusset Beach State Reservation offers tiny homeowners a place to stay year round.

Home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world, Cape Cod offers an abundance of campgrounds and RV parks. Since most tiny homes are classified as RV's, campgrounds are the perfect place for a short stay. However, not all tiny homes are on wheels, because they come in all shapes and sizes.

The tiny house movement hasn't put a number on price or square footage, because achieving financial freedom is different for everyone. From a 100 square foot home on wheels, to a 200 square foot cottage on Cape Cod, all tiny houses have minimal effects on the environment and your wallet. Tiny homeowners around the country are distancing themselves from "bigger is better," and associating themselves with "less is more" mentality.