How Do House Sizes Compare in Different Countries?

by Alex Dunbar

🏡 How Much Space Is Really Enough? Rethinking the Size of Our Homes in Canada

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: How much space do I truly need to live comfortably? 🤔 In Canada, where we're accustomed to spacious homes and sprawling yards, the answer might surprise you.

As global trends shift and urban density increases, it's time we challenge our assumptions about what “enough” actually means when it comes to living space. Is bigger always better, or could less actually be more?

Let’s dive into how Canadian homes compare globally, what this means for our environment and finances, and how your lifestyle might influence your idea of the perfect space.

🏠 How Big Are Canadian Homes Compared to the Rest of the World?

Canadians live in some of the largest homes on Earth — and that’s not just a figure of speech.

Canada's average home size: 1,948 sq ft
Australia: 2,303 sq ft
United States: 2,164 sq ft
United Kingdom: 818 sq ft
Hong Kong: 484 sq ft

That’s a massive difference! Just imagine downsizing from a nearly 2,000 sq ft house to a 484 sq ft flat. What would you keep? What would you sacrifice? 💭

🌍 Why Are Canadian Homes So Large?

The answer lies in a combination of factors:

Abundance of land: Canada is the second-largest country in the world by landmass, with a relatively low population density.
Cultural perception: A big home is often seen as a symbol of success and comfort.
Lifestyle expectations: Many families expect features like backyards, multiple bedrooms, and entertainment space.

But is it all necessary? Let’s dig deeper.

🔋 The Sustainability Dilemma of Bigger Homes

While a spacious home can feel luxurious, it comes at a cost — both environmentally and financially.

📉 Environmental Costs

Bigger homes need more materials to build.
They consume more energy to heat and cool.
Even with energy-efficient features, the footprint remains larger than that of a smaller home.

🛠️ Example:
In the 1970s, the average U.S. home was about 1,500 sq ft. Today, it's over 2,000 sq ft, despite family sizes decreasing. The same trend is happening in Canada.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Space Per Person – Are We Overdoing It?

Let’s compare the amount of personal living space:

Hong Kong: 161 sq ft per person
Canada: Significantly more per person (varies by household size)

Does more space = more happiness? Not necessarily.

✨ The Minimalist View

People like Graham Hill, who lives in a 420 sq ft apartment in NYC, prove that smart design and intentional living can be just as fulfilling — even in tiny spaces.

Still, it's not for everyone. And critics argue that minimalists with high travel habits might offset the environmental savings.

🧩 Lifestyle Matters: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All

Your “ideal” amount of space depends on:

Family size
Work-from-home needs
Entertaining preferences
Design and storage solutions

Even smaller homes can feel spacious with smart layouts and multifunctional furniture.

🏡 Are Bigger Homes Getting Smarter?

Yes — but not all.

New Canadian homes often include:

Better insulation
Energy-efficient windows
Smart thermostats
Energy-saving appliances

🛠️ However, older homes can lack these efficiencies, and retrofitting them can be expensive. If you already live in a larger home, consider:

Adding insulation
Sealing drafts
Installing smart systems

These small upgrades can make a big impact.

💸 The Financial Side of Living Large

Larger homes come with bigger price tags, and not just on purchase day.

Ongoing costs include:

Heating & cooling
Property taxes
Maintenance
Cleaning
Furnishings
Mortgage interest

Sometimes, the extra space you think you need ends up costing more than it’s worth.

🛋️ Homes Are More Than Just Square Footage

It’s important to remember that homes aren’t just assets — they’re where we live, connect, and create memories.

Whether it’s hosting a family dinner or relaxing after a long day, that extra room can feel essential for some people.

But again — it all comes down to your values, budget, and lifestyle.

🧠 Real Life Example: The Space Debate in One Couple’s Life

Recently, I worked with a couple where the husband, originally from Hong Kong, was perfectly content living in a condo. Meanwhile, his wife, born and raised in BC, wanted more space and a yard.

Their expectations were shaped by their life experiences — and this happens more often than you think. Culture, upbringing, and affordability all influence how much space feels “enough.”