How Many Mobile Homes per Acre?

Written By Sabastian Lawrence

Mobile homes are not just a place to stay, but a perfect balance between a stable home and an adventurous life of freedom to move around. On the other end, it’s also the perfect business opportunity when it comes to real estate investments. Offer a beautiful place for people to set up their own stay, all while getting a steady stream of income and having your own piece of freedom.

But how would you know how much land is actually enough for your mobile home? Are you looking for the perfect “Cabin in the woods” vibe or you want a community of free spirited people in an exciting environment.

Whatever the case may be, an acre is a huge space for more than one mobile home, even if it’s a larger triple wide model. Is an acre enough for one, or is it less than enough for ten homes, read on to find out!

To give a clear perspective, here’s a quick summary of the typical sizes:

TypeWidth (feet)Length (feet)Area (square feet)
Single-Wide14 – 1866 – 80924 – 1,440
Double-Wide20 – 3648 – 80960 – 2,880
Triple-Wide40 – 5448 – 801,920 – 4,320

These average sizes give a starting point for understanding how many mobile homes can fit on an acre. In the next section, we’ll explore how these dimensions translate to the physical capacity of an acre of land.

1. Mobile Home Configurations (as per dimension)

A mobile home is mobile, because of it’s flexibility. One room not enough? Go for a double-wide. Need many small units side by side? Go for a single wide. But in order to understand how many mobile homes can fit in one acre, let’s first get you clear on how many types of mobile homes are there, and what are their sizes and other details.

Read on to find the details and visualize each type, and open your world to a whole new type of homes!

Single-wide mobile homes are typically 14 to 18 feet in width and 66 to 80 feet in length. This gives an average area ranging from 924 square feet to 1,440 square feet. Single-wide homes are compact and are often chosen for their affordability and ease of transport.

Double-wide mobile homes are larger, usually measuring 20 to 36 feet in width and 48 to 80 feet in length. This results in an average area ranging from 960 square feet to 2,880 square feet. These homes offer more space and amenities, making them a popular choice for families.

While less common, some mobile homes are built as triple-wide or larger units, combining multiple sections to create a single home that can exceed 3,000 square feet. These homes provide even more living space and often come with high-end features.

Triple-wide homes represent the pinnacle of luxury and spaciousness in the realm of manufactured homes. These homes are constructed by combining three separate units, resulting in a wide and expansive living space. Triple-wide homes offer a luxurious and comfortable living environment with ample room for customization.

Park model homes are smaller, often used for seasonal or recreational purposes. They typically measure around 12 feet in width and up to 36 feet in length, offering a compact and efficient living space.

Due to their smaller size, park model homes can be placed in tighter configurations, ideal for vacation parks or seasonal housing communities.

A new trend, thanks to the minimalism lifestyle, these are tiny spaces, even smaller than an average studio apartment. Perfect for one person and super easy to move around, many of these are even built on wheels!

The size? You ask? As big as the room you’re sitting in, about 200 square feet. But they can range anywhere from 100 square feet to 400 square feet.

Configuration TypeWidth (feet)Length (feet)Area (square feet)Typical Use
Single-Wide14 – 1866 – 80924 – 1,440Affordable housing, mobile home parks
Double-Wide20 – 3648 – 80960 – 2,880Family housing, more spacious living
Triple-Wide and Larger40 – 5448 – 801,920 – 4,320Luxury mobile homes, larger plots
Park Model Homes1236432Seasonal/recreational use
Tiny Homes8 – 1212 – 36100 – 400Minimalist living, sustainable communities

Understanding these different configurations helps in planning the layout and maximizing the use of an acre of land. Each type of mobile home offers unique advantages depending on the intended use and available space.


1.1 Single-Wide Homes

The smallest option in the mobile home catalogue, these are versatile, and a perfect option for those who wish to move around often. Think of a studio apartment, only movable. These compact homes are built long and narrow, and depending on exact size, can fit a den or a living room with a proper bedroom and a full bath.

Single-wides generally measure between 14 to 18 feet in width and 66 to 80 feet in length, which makes these easier to transport and install. This is also why these are one of the more popular choice.

One acre is equivalent to 43,560 square feet. If we assume an average single-wide home size of 16 feet by 76 feet, the footprint of one home is approximately 1,216 square feet.

1 acre = 43,560 square feet

Average single-wide home footprint = 16 feet × 76 feet = 1,216 square feet

Assuming a spacing of 10 feet between homes for access and utilities, each home’s effective area including spacing would be:

  • Effective width = 16 feet + 10 feet = 26 feet
  • Effective length = 76 feet + 10 feet = 86 feet
  • Effective footprint including spacing = 26 feet × 86 feet = 2,236 square feet
  • Number of homes per acre = Total area of the acre / Effective footprint
  • = 43,560 / 2,236 ≈ 19 homes

Therefore, approximately 19 single-wide homes can fit on a 1-acre plot, considering the necessary spacing for accessibility and utilities.

  • A more affordable option, great for those who want a efficient home at lower cost.
  • Easy to transport and install
  • Compact yet efficient design, making it easy to manage and maintain
  • You can install a higher number of single-wides in a plot as compared to other larger sizes.
  • Limited space may feel cramped, not suited for more than 1-2 people
  • Lower resale or trade-in values
  • Limited layout options due to smaller size

1.2 Double-Wide Homes

A mobile equal of a 2 bedroom apartment, double-wide mobile homes are more spacious, and a popular choice among those don’t plan on moving around as often.

Double wides most commonly have 2 bedrooms, but don’t expect a luxurious or spacious king size space. Double wides have more options when it comes to dimensions, and you can find options ranging from 20 to 36 feet in width and 48 to 80 feet in length!

Assuming an average double-wide home size of 24 feet by 60 feet, the footprint of one home is approximately 1,440 square feet.

1 acre = 43,560 square feet

Average double-wide home footprint = 24 feet × 60 feet = 1,440 square feet

Assuming a spacing of 15 feet between homes for access and utilities, each home’s effective area including spacing would be:

  • Effective width = 24 feet + 15 feet = 39 feet
  • Effective length = 60 feet + 15 feet = 75 feet
  • Effective footprint including spacing = 39 feet × 75 feet = 2,925 square feet
  • Number of homes per acre = Total area of the acre / Effective footprint
  • = 43,560 / 2,925 ≈ 14 homes

Therefore, approximately 14 double-wide homes can fit on a 1-acre plot, keeping in mind the important utility and access space.

Double-wide homes offer significantly more living space compared to single-wide homes, providing ample room for families.

These homes often come equipped with modern amenities such as large kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and walk-in closets.

Double-wide homes offer a wide range of customization options, allowing homeowners to personalize their living space according to their preferences.

Double-wide homes can be more expensive than single-wide homes due to their larger size and amenities.

Transporting and installing double-wide homes require specialized equipment and may incur additional costs.

These homes require larger plots of land compared to single-wide homes, limiting placement options in some areas.


1.3 Triple-Wide and Larger Mobile Homes

A far more luxurious offering as compared to the two above, triple wides are more spacious, and are as big as mobile homes can get. Now these are tricky, not due to the size, but the shapes.

Squares, rectangles, L-shaped, U-shaped, you name it, they got it. The freedom of layout choices is of course, space requirements, as these can go upto 80 feet or more in length, and 54 feet in width. Being large sized, these are most preferred by those who have larger land plots and don’t plan on moving around more than once or twice during the home’s life.

If you consider an average triple-wide home size of 48 feet by 80 feet, the footprint of one home is approximately 3,840 square feet.

  • 1 acre = 43,560 square feet
  • Average triple-wide home footprint = 48 feet × 80 feet = 3,840 square feet
  • Assuming a spacing of 20 feet between homes for access and utilities, each home’s effective area including spacing would be:
  • Effective width = 48 feet + 20 feet = 68 feet
  • Effective length = 80 feet + 20 feet = 100 feet
  • Effective footprint including spacing = 68 feet × 100 feet = 6,800 square feet
  • Number of homes per acre = Total area of the acre / Effective footprint
  • = 43,560 / 6,800 ≈ 6 homes

Therefore, approximately 6 triple-wide homes can fit on a 1-acre plot, considering necessary spacing for accessibility and utilities.

  • Huge amounts of space, great for bigger families or as vacation homes.
  • Almost endless customization options.
  • Many modern luxuries and amenities.
  • Far more expensive as compared to smaller sizes
  • Require larger plots of land.
  • Comparatively more difficult transportation and installation.

Source: 1,2,3


2. How many mobile homes are legally allowed per acre?

    Just like residential areas and traditional homes, mobile homes also have sets of rules. These are set in place to ensure safety and quality of life of the residents, similar to zoning laws for any other type of housing.

    Whether you are a private buyer looking to set up a mobile home on your private land, or you are an entrepreneur looking to build your own mobile home park as a business, you have to follow these in order to make the most out of your investment.

    Now that you have understood the sizes and options and feel ready to dive in the “Peaky Blinders” gypsy vibes, let’s ensure you don’t get yourself in trouble like the Shelby’s, and know all the rules.

    The number of mobile homes legally allowed per acre can vary widely, but typically, it ranges from 5 to 25 units per acre, depending on several factors including local zoning laws and land use regulations.


    2.1 Federal Law

    The Federal Law doesn’t dive deep into land use regulation, but federal agencies like HUD do mandate manufacturing and safety standards. The land use regulation is mostly left for the state governments to manage as per their own conditions.

    State Laws and Local Regulations

    State laws and local zoning regulations not only focus on enforcing safety and construction standards, but also set rules for land use and how these are to be set up. This includes determining how many mobile homes can be placed on an acre of land. Now these laws also vary from state to state, so be sure to check the laws of your state before you take any decisions. For reference, here are a couple of examples:

    1. California: In California, local zoning laws typically govern the density of mobile home parks. For instance, in some urban areas, the density might be limited to 10 to 15 mobile homes per acre to ensure adequate space for amenities and infrastructure. For example, Holtsville CA mandates that minimum land plot size for a mobile home park is 5 acres, and maximum density is 5,000 square feet per mobile home space. This would mean that 8 mobile homes can be set per acre.
    • Texas: In Texas, the regulations have similar basics, but mobile home park owners have to ensure spacing between each home, and calculations according to regulations as per Rosenberg, TX, show that 7-8 mobile homes are allowed per acre, more or less in some cases.

    Here’s why there are limitations on the number of mobile homes per acre

    • Spacing ensures that there is enough room for essential infrastructure like roads, water, sewer systems, and electricity. Overcrowding can strain these systems, leading to inefficiencies and potential hazards.
    • Proper spacing is crucial for emergency access. Fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency services need sufficient room to maneuver in case of an emergency.
    • Zoning laws aim to maintain a certain quality of life for residents. Overcrowded areas can lead to problems like noise, lack of privacy, and insufficient recreational spaces, impacting the overall well-being of the community.
    • Limiting the density of mobile homes helps manage environmental impacts, such as reducing the risk of soil erosion, maintaining green spaces, and ensuring proper waste management.

    3. How many acres do you need for a mobile home?

    All said and done, if you’re looking for a plot of land to build one mobile home, chances are, you’re a private buyer looking for a home for yourself.

    This makes things a lot different than a mobile home park. Let’s see, according to sizes and types, how much land would be enough.

    Before we start, please remember, that the requirements, and rules, both differ in case of a private buyer for personal use and for a mobile home park owner for commercial use.

    3.1 Single Wide Mobile Homes

    A row of heavily green trees lining up the plot’s property lines, grasses and shrubs on all four sides, and a quaint little single-wide perched in the centre, giving you a taste of nature and peace, while letting you enjoy creature comforts too!

    As we saw earlier, a single wide mobile home would need about a 1000 square feet. Which means, covering important utilities and minimum space on all sides from the plot boundaries, you’d be needing a minimum of 1300 square feet, or 144 square yards, which is a very small plot. But depending upon the legal requirements and guidelines of your local government, there could be a guideline for minimum plot sizes as well.

    But you can work your way up from there. The more things you add, the more space you need. A two car garage, a garden on all sides, a swimming pool, driveway, solar panels, water tanks, and other utilities can easily bring you up to 3,000 square feet or approximately 333 square yards, which, again, is same as the size of an average duplex home.


    3.2 Double-Wide or Triple-Wide Homes

    Now, if you’re considering a double-wide or even a triple-wide home, you’ll need more room. A double-wide generally requires around 1000-2000 square feet while a triple wide requires 2000-4000 square feet. This extra space allows for larger living areas, additional bedrooms, and potentially more luxurious amenities.

    The basic idea remains the same as a single wide, and considering basic requirements for space for utilities and boundary spaces, these would only be slightly more than single wide. After that, as you keep on adding stuff, your land size gets bigger accordingly. The only major change is the size of the home itself.

    This means that a double-wide or a triple wide could easily cosy up in 3,000 square feet or 333 square yards as minimum. Add 2000 to 3000 square feet more, and you get an estimated 6,000-8,000 square feet, which is around 970 square yards or approximately 0.2 acres.

    That much space is more than enough for setting up a 3 car garage, a pool, a front lawn and a backyard, a solar energy and battery setup, a driveway, utilities, and then some space for planting some trees for a nice shaded area as well. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?


    3.3 Mobile Home Parks and Communities

    What if you’re not setting up a single mobile home but thinking about developing a mobile home park or community? This is where things get really interesting. Depending on local zoning laws and the intended layout, you might fit between 5 to 12 homes per acre.

    Let’s take an example. Imagine you have a 10-acre plot. Depending on your local regulations, you could potentially set up a thriving community with anywhere from 50 to 120 mobile homes. That’s a lot of potential neighbors!


    3.4 Legal and Practical Considerations

    Remember, while these numbers give you a rough idea, actual requirements can vary based on local regulations and zoning laws. For instance:

    • Infrastructure Needs: Space for roads, utilities, and communal areas can affect how much land you need.
    • Local Regulations: Some areas might have specific requirements for the minimum lot size per mobile home.
    • Environmental Factors: Land topography, soil stability, and flood zones can all impact how much usable land you really have.

    3.5 Why Are These Limits Important?

    You might be wondering, why all the fuss about how much land is needed? Well, it’s all about ensuring that mobile home living is safe, comfortable, and sustainable.

    • Infrastructure: Proper spacing ensures that all homes have access to necessary utilities without overloading the system.
    • Safety: Adequate space between homes allows for emergency services to access all areas quickly.
    • Quality of Life: Enough land per home ensures that residents enjoy privacy and open spaces, avoiding the cramped conditions that can lead to a lower quality of life.

    Source: 1,2,3


    4. How many mobile homes fit per acre in Texas?

    So, you’re curious about how many mobile homes can fit on an acre of land in Texas? The Lone Star State is known for its vast landscapes and diverse housing regulations, which can impact mobile home placements. Read on for some engaging insights and practical information.

    4.1 The Basics of Mobile Home Density in Texas

    Texas is a big state with a lot of variety in terms of local regulations and zoning laws. Generally, the number of mobile homes that can fit on an acre in Texas can range from about 5 to 10 units. This wide range depends on factors such as local rules, the type of mobile home, and the intended use of the land.


    4.2 Single-Wide vs. Double-Wide Homes

    First, let’s talk about the two most common types of mobile homes: single-wide and double-wide.

    • Single-Wide Homes: These typically measure around 14 to 18 feet in width and 66 to 80 feet in length. They require less space, allowing for a higher density on an acre. With single-wide homes, you might be able to fit up to 10 to 15 units per acre, depending on the layout and spacing for utilities and access roads.
    • Double-Wide Homes: These are larger, usually around 20 to 36 feet in width and 48 to 80 feet in length. Because they take up more space, fewer double-wide homes can fit on an acre—typically around 5 to 8 units, ensuring there is enough room for proper spacing and infrastructure.

    4.5 Zoning and Local Regulations

    Texas has diverse zoning laws that vary significantly from one locality to another. Here are a couple of examples to illustrate the range:

    • Urban Areas: In cities like Houston or Dallas, zoning regulations are stricter, often limiting the number of mobile homes per acre to maintain quality of life and infrastructure standards. Here, you might see limits around 5 to 10 mobile homes per acre.
    • Rural Areas: In more rural parts of Texas, such as the expansive counties west of San Antonio, regulations can be more relaxed. These areas might allow higher densities, possibly up to 15 to 25 mobile homes per acre, reflecting the greater availability of land and different community standards.

    As an example, the rules for City of Temple, Texas, state that on a minimum 5 acre lot, more than 10 HUD code approved mobile homes are not allowed. When checking the local area laws or state regulation, the easiest way to calculate would be the plot size requirements and the lot density, both of which are always mentioned in the guidelines.


    4.6 Practical Example

    Let’s consider a practical example. If you have an acre of land in a rural part of Texas and are placing single-wide mobile homes, you could reasonably fit around 15 homes per acre. Here’s a quick breakdown:

    • Land Area: 1 acre = 43,560 square feet
    • Single-Wide Home: Average size of 16 feet x 76 feet = 1,216 square feet
    • Spacing: Adding 10 feet of space around each home for utilities and access = 2,236 square feet per home

    Number of homes per acre = 43,560 / 2,236 ≈ 19 homes, but realistically around 15 to account for communal spaces and infrastructure needs.

    In urban areas, where the density might be lower due to stricter regulations, you might only fit around 5 to 10 homes per acre, ensuring a balance between density and livability.


    5. Do I Need Any Permits For My Mobile Home?

    Just like building a traditional home, a few pieces of paperwork are necessary for mobile homes too. These includes license, permit, etc. If you’re planning to place a mobile home on your property, understanding the permit requirements is crucial.

    5.1 Federal Regulations

    At the federal level, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulates the construction of mobile homes through the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (HUD Code). Here’s what you need to know:

    Paperwork and Licenses:

    • HUD Label: Every mobile home must have a HUD certification label, also known as a HUD tag, which indicates that the home meets federal construction and safety standards.
    • Manufacturer’s Certificate: This document certifies that the home was built according to HUD standards and includes details like the model, manufacturer, and serial number.
    • Installation Manual: Mobile homes come with a manufacturer-provided installation manual that must be followed to ensure compliance with HUD installation standards.

    5.2 State and Local Regulations

    State and local regulations can vary widely. Below are the detailed requirements for California and Texas.

    In California, mobile home regulations are strict, involving multiple permits and compliance checks.

    Paperwork and Licenses:

    • Building Permit: Required for the installation of the mobile home, including the foundation, utility connections, and structural setup.
    • Zoning Permit: Ensures the placement of the mobile home complies with local zoning laws.
    • Utility Permits: Separate permits for connecting to water, sewer, electricity, and gas.
    • Occupancy Permit: Issued after final inspections to certify that the home is safe for habitation.
    • Transport Permit: If you’re moving a mobile home, you’ll need a permit for transportation, ensuring it complies with safety regulations during transit.
    • California HCD Permits: The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) requires specific permits for the setup and alterations of mobile homes.

    Steps to Get Permits:

    • Application: Submit detailed plans and applications to the local building department and HCD.
    • Fees: Pay required fees for each permit type.
    • Inspections: Schedule and pass multiple inspections, including foundation, utility hookups, and final safety inspections.
    • Final Approval: Obtain the occupancy permit after all inspections are completed successfully.

    Texas has a more streamlined process but still requires several key permits and approvals.

    Paperwork and Licenses:

    • Building Permit: Required for the installation of the mobile home, covering foundation, utility connections, and structure.
    • Zoning Permit: Ensures compliance with local land use and zoning regulations.
    • Utility Permits: Separate permits for water, sewer, electricity, and gas connections.
    • Occupancy Permit: Required before you can live in the mobile home, confirming that it meets all safety and health standards.
    • TDHCA Permits: The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) oversees the installation and regulation of mobile homes. You’ll need a TDHCA permit for setup.

    Steps to Get Permits:

    • Application: Submit applications to the local building department and TDHCA, including site plans and home specifications.
    • Fees: Pay the necessary permit fees.
    • Inspections: Pass inspections for the foundation, utility connections, and final installation.
    • Final Approval: Obtain the occupancy permit after all inspections are cleared.

    Source: 1,2


    6. Can You Build Mobile Homes in Trailer Parks?

    Absolutely! Building and placing mobile homes in trailer parks, also known as mobile home parks, is a common practice. Trailer parks are specifically designed to accommodate mobile homes, providing essential infrastructure and community amenities. Let’s explore how this works, what it entails, and some of the advantages and considerations involved.

    6.1 What Are Trailer Parks?

    Trailer parks are designated areas where multiple mobile homes are placed in a community setting. They offer residents the convenience of shared amenities, such as:

    • Utility hookups (water, electricity, sewage)
    • Maintenance services
    • Recreational facilities (playgrounds, pools, community centers)
    • Security services

    These parks are a popular housing option due to their affordability and sense of community.


    6.2 Building Mobile Homes in Trailer Parks

    Process Overview:

    • Finding a Suitable Park: Research and choose a trailer park that fits your needs in terms of location, amenities, and community rules.
    • Lease or Purchase a Lot: Most trailer parks offer lots for lease. Some parks may allow you to purchase the lot where you place your mobile home.
    • Permits and Approvals: Obtain necessary permits from local authorities. The trailer park management often assists with understanding and fulfilling these requirements.
    • Mobile Home Delivery and Setup: Arrange for the transportation of your mobile home to the trailer park. Professional services ensure safe delivery and setup, including connecting utilities and securing the home on its foundation.
    • Inspection and Compliance: Once set up, your mobile home will undergo inspections to ensure it meets local codes and regulations.

    6.3 Why Trailer Parks Are a Good Idea for Building a Mobile Home

    • Community Living: Trailer parks provide a built-in community, fostering social interactions and mutual support among residents. They offer a sense of belonging, which can be especially beneficial for individuals or families moving to a new area.
    • Affordability: Living in a trailer park is often more affordable than purchasing a plot of land or a traditional home. The cost of leasing a lot is typically lower, and many parks offer additional services that can save residents money.
    • Convenience: Trailer parks come equipped with necessary infrastructure like water, electricity, and sewage systems, making it easier to set up and maintain a mobile home. Residents also benefit from shared amenities, which enhance the quality of life without the burden of individual maintenance.
    • Flexibility: Leasing a lot in a trailer park provides flexibility. If you decide to move, it’s easier to relocate a mobile home from a trailer park than a permanent house. This flexibility can be particularly appealing for those who might need to move for work or personal reasons.

    6.4 Arrangements with Trailer Park Owners

    • Leasing a Lot: Most trailer parks operate on a lease model, where residents pay a monthly or annual fee to rent a lot. The lease agreement typically includes terms regarding the use of the lot, maintenance responsibilities, and rules governing the community.
    • Purchasing a Lot: In some cases, trailer parks allow residents to purchase the lot where they place their mobile home. This arrangement can provide more security and investment potential, as owning the lot can lead to appreciation in value.
    • Community Rules and Regulations: Residents must adhere to the trailer park’s rules, which may include guidelines on home appearance, noise levels, and community behavior. These rules help maintain order and a pleasant living environment for all residents.

    6.5 Why People Choose to Live in Trailer Parks

    • One of the primary reasons is the lower cost of living. With lower initial investment and maintenance costs, mobile homes in trailer parks offer an affordable alternative to traditional housing.
    • Living in a trailer park fosters a strong sense of community. Residents often form close-knit relationships and support networks, which can enhance the overall living experience.
    • Trailer parks provide access to various amenities, such as recreational facilities, maintenance services, and sometimes even on-site management. These conveniences can significantly improve the quality of life without the need for individual maintenance.
    • Trailer parks are often located in desirable areas, providing residents with access to local amenities, schools, and transportation links. This location flexibility makes trailer parks an attractive option for many.

    7. Final thoughts

    Freedom of shifting when you want, ease of maintenance, minimalist lifestyle, affordability, and customizable options. This is what blends in to make up a mobile home. Whether you’re considering a cozy single-wide, a spacious double-wide, or a luxurious triple-wide, understanding the physical space and regulatory hurdles is key to making your dream a reality.

    But it’s not all fun and games, and laws play a significant role. It is important to ensure the right paperwork is done and all rules are followed.

    Ultimately, whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of a single-wide, the roominess of a double-wide, or the extravagance of a triple-wide, mobile homes provide a unique and customizable housing option. With thorough research, compliance with regulations, and a clear vision of your needs, you can enjoy a smooth and satisfying mobile home experience.

    So go ahead, embrace the mobile home lifestyle. It’s a bit like living in a cozy, movable feast—flexible, affordable, and ready to be tailored to your every whim. After all, who wouldn’t want to live in a space that feels like it’s straight out of a charming TV show, with all the comforts and none of the high costs?

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