Tiny homes have really taken off across the U.S., offering a budget-friendly and eco-conscious way to live. But not every state is on board when it comes to the rules around where and how you can actually live in one. If downsizing is on your radar this year, here are seven states where tiny homes are not just legal—they’re welcomed.
1. California
California has been ahead of the curve when it comes to housing alternatives. Cities like Los Angeles, Fresno, and San Diego have made space for tiny homes, whether they’re on wheels or built as backyard units (also known as ADUs). With the housing crunch still in full swing, more cities are warming up to the idea.
2. Oregon
Oregon’s been all-in on tiny homes for a while now. Places like Portland and Eugene don’t just allow them—they make it pretty easy to build one. In Portland, for example, if your tiny home is built on a foundation, it can be treated like an ADU, which simplifies the process a lot.
3. Colorado
Colorado is a top pick for tiny home fans. Spots like Park County, Walsenburg, and even Durango have created rules that support tiny houses, whether they’re mobile or not. Some towns even have whole neighborhoods just for tiny homes.
4. Texas
Texas is big on freedom—and that goes for housing, too. Rural areas and smaller towns are especially tiny-home-friendly. Spur, Texas, actually calls itself the first official “tiny house-friendly town” in the country. Austin’s also starting to catch on. Just remember: rules can change from county to county, so check locally.
5.Florida
With its warm weather and growing minimalist movement, Florida’s become a popular choice for tiny living. Cities like Sarasota and St. Pete allow tiny homes as backyard units, and there are lots of communities popping up, especially for folks retiring and looking to downsize.
6.Washington
Washington has passed laws that make it easier to live in a tiny home on wheels by recognizing them as more than just RVs. Cities like Seattle and Olympia are on board, and rural parts of the state usually have fewer rules to deal with.
7.North Carolina
Tiny homes are gaining serious traction in North Carolina. Places like Asheville and Greensboro have seen a boom in tiny house developments. The state now has clear rules for tiny homes, and more towns are updating their codes to make space for them.
Wrapping It Up
As of 2025, more states are getting behind the tiny home lifestyle—but rules can still vary a lot depending on where you are. If you’re thinking about going tiny, it’s a smart move to dig into your local zoning and building codes first. The good news? The tiny house movement is picking up speed, and more places are jumping on board every year.
