Embracing the Golden Age of Guest Bedrooms: A Trend Transforming American Homes

As families across America prepare for holiday gatherings, a significant trend emerges: the expanding number of guest bedrooms. A new analysis by Realtor.com®'s economic research team reveals a record high in both the total number and the proportion of homes with spare bedrooms. This shift is reshaping how Americans utilize their living spaces, reflecting deeper demographic and cultural changes.

The Rise of the Spare Bedroom

In 2023, the U.S. saw a total of 31.9 million extra bedrooms, marking a steady increase from previous years and significantly higher than the figures from the 1980s. Interestingly, the proportion of bedrooms designated as guest rooms has reached a peak of 8.8%. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, points out,

"During the holidays we often feel the need for more room, especially for guests. However, we are in a golden age of extra bedrooms."

This trend is supported by the growth in the average number of bedrooms per home and the notable decline in household size since the 1970s.

Demographic Trends Driving Change

The decrease in the average number of persons per household—from 3.1 in 1970 to 2.5 in 2023—mirrors significant demographic shifts. Baby boomers are transitioning into empty nest phases, while millennials are marrying later and having fewer children, influencing real estate trends significantly. These changes are creating environments where spare bedrooms are increasingly common, not just for guests but as flexible spaces for offices and other uses.

Regional Variations in Spare Bedroom Trends

The availability of guest bedrooms varies widely across the country. The Mountain West and South, known for their ample building space, lead with the highest numbers of spare bedrooms. In contrast, densely populated urban areas like Miami and New York City have the fewest. For instance, Ogden, UT, stands out as the guest bedroom capital of America, with 12.2% of all bedrooms there classified as spare.

Top and Bottom Metros for Spare Bedrooms:

• Top Metros: Ogden, UT (12.2%); Colorado Springs, CO (12.1%); Salt Lake City, UT (12%)
• Bottom Metros: Miami, FL (5.9%); Sarasota, FL (6.4%); New York, NY (6.5%)

Bottomline

The evolving landscape of American households highlights a unique opportunity for homeowners and real estate professionals alike. As we witness the golden age of guest bedrooms, the potential for reimagining these spaces is immense, whether for hosting guests, creating home offices, or adapting to other personal needs. If you're considering a move to a community rich in spacious homes, like those found in Ogden or Colorado Springs, let's connect and explore the possibilities together.

Reference: "America’s Households Are Shrinking, Ushering in the ‘Golden Age’ of Guest Bedrooms" by Keith Griffith, Dec 18, 2024.