Single-Wide Vs. Double-Wide: Which Mobile Home is Right For You
By: ROS Team
As affordable and quality housing becomes more in demand, manufactured homes look more attractive. These homes offer the same amenities as site-built homes at up to 50% less per square foot.
Built in a controlled factory environment, manufactured homes avoid common construction issues like weather delays, material theft, and labor shortages. This saves money and ensures quality.
As the market for manufactured homes grows, buyers now have options, single-wide and double-wide. Both are affordable and flexible but each has its pros and cons. Knowing the differences between the two, from size and floor plans to setup costs and maintenance is key when choosing the right home that suits your needs.
This guide will help you navigate the decision, ensuring you make an informed choice between single-wide and double-wide homes.
What Are Single-Wide Mobile Homes?
Single-wide mobile homes are a type of manufactured housing that is built in a factory and delivered to the site in one piece. They are typically narrower than other mobile homes, usually 12 to 18 feet wide and up to 90 feet long. They have a full living space with bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living area.
Features of Single-Wide Homes
- Open floor plans that maximize space efficiency.
- Streamlined designs typically with 2 bedrooms or fewer.
- Compact kitchen and living areas that focus on functionality.
What Are Double-Wide Mobile Homes?
Double-wide mobile homes are manufactured homes built in two sections, transported to the site, and then connected. They are wider than single-wide homes, 20 to 32 feet wide and up to 90 feet long, with more interior space and a more traditional house feel. These homes have larger rooms, multiple bedrooms, and more amenities, they are a popular choice for families.
Features of Double-Wide Homes
- Generous floor plans with distinct room separation.
- Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms (often 3 or more).
- Larger kitchen and living areas provide more space and comfort.
Pros & Cons of Single-Wide Mobile Homes
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordability: Lower purchase and maintenance costs. | Limited Space: Smaller size may feel cramped for families. |
| Ease of Transport: Easier and cheaper to move due to being a single unit. | Fewer Layout Options: Limited design and room configuration options. |
| Space Efficiency: More compact, fits in smaller lots. | Resale Value: Typically has a lower resale value compared to double-wide homes. |
| Quick Setup: Faster to set up as it is delivered in one piece. | Customization: Offers less customization in terms of layout and amenities. |
Pros & Cons of Double-Wide Mobile Homes
| Pros | Cons |
| More Space: Provides larger rooms and more interior space. | Higher Cost: More expensive than single-wide homes. |
| Feels Like a Traditional Home: Spacious layout with more amenities. | Transport Difficulty: Harder and more expensive to transport due to two sections. |
| Customization Options: Allows for more design and room layout flexibility. | Larger Lot Required: Needs a bigger lot and more setup time. |
| Better Resale Value: Typically holds higher resale value than single-wide homes. | Higher Maintenance: Larger size means higher maintenance and utility costs. |
Important: “Tax associated with single-wide homes is far less than as compared to double-wide homes.”
Single Wide vs Double Wide Homes: What’s the Difference?
Size & Dimension
Single wides are 12-18 feet wide and 70-90 feet long, 500-1200 sqft. They are designed to be small and use space efficiently in a long and narrow floor plan. Double wides are much bigger, 20-32 feet wide and 40-76 feet long, 1000-2200 sqft. Double wides are wider so they feel more like a traditional house.
Setup Cost
The setup cost for single-wide and double-wide is between $1,500-$5,000 or more. Although double wides are bigger, the setup cost is similar for both, depending on location, foundation, and utility connections. However, double wides take longer to set up because of the bigger structure.
Do You Know: “Single-wide homes have 30-50% less resale value than double-wide.”
Floor Plans
Single wides have a long and narrow design but there are still many floor plan options. Single wides are built with an open floor plan to maximize space. Double wides have more flexibility in their design and floor plans. They are not limited to the long and narrow shape of single wides and can have a square, larger square, or rectangular layout for more customization and comfort.
Price
In price, single wides are more affordable, costing around $86,000. Double wides are bigger and more spacious so they cost more, around $160,000. Double wides are more expensive but they have more living space and amenities so they are popular for families.
Maintenance
Maintenance for single wides is lower because of their smaller size and simpler design. Double wides require more maintenance because of their bigger size and more complex layout. The extra space and additional features of a double-wide means higher utility bills and upkeep in the long run.
Do You Know: “The average sales price of a new manufactured home without land was $127,250 in 2022.”
Single Wide versus Double Wide: Which Home Is Right for You?
Choosing between a single-wide and double-wide manufactured home depends on several important factors, including your:
- Budget
- Available lot size
- Lifestyle
Single-wide homes are generally more affordable, making them a great option for those working with a tighter budget. They also fit well on smaller or uniquely shaped lots due to their narrow, compact design.
However, if you have a larger family or enjoy hosting gatherings, you may find a double-wide home offers the extra space and comfort you need. Double-wide homes typically have a more flexible floor plan and a layout that resembles a traditional home, allowing for larger rooms and more amenities.
Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your personal preferences, the size of your family, and how much space you require.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Single Wide Trailer Cost?
The cost of a single-wide trailer can vary significantly based on several factors, including size, features, location, and manufacturer. Generally, a new single-wide trailer can range from around $30,000 to $80,000 or more. However, it’s important to note that this price doesn’t include transportation, setup, or any necessary land preparation.
How Much Do Double Wide Trailers Cost?
Double-wide trailers typically cost more than single-wide trailers due to their larger size and increased complexity. Prices can range from approximately $50,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors like features, materials, and location.
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