Are Two Story Homes Less Expensive To Build Than A One Story?

Are Two Story Homes Less Expensive To Build Than A One Story?

This is a question that has been around for years. After all, building up is way cheaper than building out! Well, like most chicken and the egg questions, it depends.

The determining factor is usually the cost of the land. If you can buy a smaller building lot for an amount that is far less than a standard size property that would suit a one story home then the answer is yes. On the other hand, if a small lot and a big lot are basically the same price then no.

It also depends upon what type of home you want to build. If the house is a production style house that is a square box being built on top of another square box with average finishes then yes, a 2 story would be less expensive.

Most New Custom Built Homes in Central Florida are constructed on lots that are priced about the same. Saving substantial dollars on the land purchase will not be possible. Additionally, most 2 story Custom Homes have more elaborate finishes than a 1 story if you take into account the grand stairway in the foyer. 

On balance, I would say, in the Orlando area you will pay more for a 2 story Custom Home than a 1 story.