Looking for a tiny house community? Here's a quick guide to the top 12 communities across America, with monthly costs ranging from $350 to $1,400. These places are top-tier within the tiny house movement.
Top Communities at a Glance:
- Acony Bell (NC) - Mountain views, $550/month
- Orlando Lakefront (FL) - Lakeside living, $350-650/month
- Escalante Village (CO) - Mountain town life, $500/month
- Tiny Tranquility (OR) - Coastal living, $650-700/month
- LuxTiny (AZ) - Desert community, $329-459/month
- The Sanctuary (MN) - Wooded retreat, $350-450/month
- Tiny Estates (PA) - Lakeside plots, $650/month
- River Ridge Escape (GA) - Mountain setting, $395-525/month
- Modern Tiny Village (OH) - Urban community, $400-500/month
- Tiny House Block (CA) - Mountain village, varies
- Harbor Point Estates (IL) - Lake access, $650-1,400/month
- Bluegrass Tiny Ridge (KY) - Rural living, $450/month
| Community Feature | Typical Monthly Cost | Common Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Urban/Suburban | $600-1,400 | Shared laundry, WiFi, parking |
| Rural/Mountain | $350-550 | Trails, gardens, fire pits |
| Lakefront/Coastal | $500-700 | Water access, docks, community spaces |
What to Consider:
- Most communities include utilities and basic amenities
- Many require background checks
- Some allow your own tiny home, others only offer rentals
- Pet policies and size restrictions vary
- Zoning laws differ by state - not all states allow tiny homes
These communities blend private living with shared spaces, creating neighborhoods where simple living and community connection go hand in hand.
Related video from YouTube
What Makes a Tiny House Community
Tiny house communities are more than just small homes clustered together. They're about simple living, shared resources, and building connections. Here's what sets them apart:
Shared Spaces and Amenities
Most communities offer common areas like laundry facilities, gardens, kitchens, and recreational spaces. Sharing these keeps costs down and reduces environmental impact.
Community Events
Regular get-togethers like potlucks, movie nights, and skill-sharing workshops help neighbors bond.
Collaborative Projects
Residents often work together on community gardens, maintenance, or art installations. This builds relationships and a sense of ownership.
Rules and Guidelines
To keep things smooth, communities have ground rules:
| Area | Common Rules |
|---|---|
| Occupancy | Resident limits per home |
| Maintenance | Upkeep standards |
| Noise | Quiet hours |
| Pets | Pet policies |
| Guests | Visitor rules |
Focus on Sustainability
Many communities emphasize green living through renewable energy, water conservation, and recycling.
Decision-Making Process
Residents often have a say in community operations through meetings, voting, and committees.
These elements create a unique living experience that's about more than just tiny homes. It's about building a community where people can live simply, sustainably, and connected to their neighbors.
How We Picked These Communities
We looked at several key factors to choose the top tiny and small house communities in the US:
Location and Setting
We picked diverse locations. Take Orlando Lakefront tiny house community: it's on Lake Fairview, just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando. You get nature AND city life.
Community Features
We loved places with shared spaces. Lakeland Ridge in Bean Station, Tennessee is a standout. It has:
- A community kitchen
- A garden
- A dog park
- Shower and bathroom facilities
- Plans for a restaurant
Eco-Friendly Living
Green communities got extra points. The Sanctuary in Minnesota uses:
Rainwater harvesting systems and composting toilets
Cost
We looked at affordability. Monthly costs vary a lot:
| Community | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Lemon Cove Village | $450 - $595 |
| Some high-end places | $1,000+ |
Community Vibe
We wanted places that feel like... well, communities. At Llamalopolis in Las Vegas, residents use Slack to share food and plan get-togethers. It's pretty tight-knit.
Legal Stuff
We chose communities in states that allow tiny homes. Right now, that's 12 states.
Flexibility
Some communities let you bring your own tiny home. Others only sell their units. We included both types.
Acony Bell (North Carolina)
Acony Bell is a tiny home community in Mills River, North Carolina. It's smack in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving residents a taste of mountain life with an eco-friendly twist.
Here's what makes Acony Bell special:
- It's between Asheville and Brevard, so you're close to city life and outdoor fun
- The 56-acre property has two creeks and mountain views
- You can bring your own tiny home or use a park model
What's Included?
Acony Bell isn't just a place to park your tiny home. It's got:
- Community gardens
- Walking and biking trails
- Fire rings
- A community center
These shared spaces help neighbors become friends.
For Nature Lovers
If you love the outdoors, you'll love Acony Bell. It's near:
- Top-notch mountain biking trails
- Hiking in Pisgah Forest
- Great trout fishing spots
Beer Nearby
Like beer? You're in luck. Check out these breweries:
| Brewery | How Far? |
|---|---|
| Oskar Blues | 10 min |
| Sierra Nevada | 15 min |
| Asheville's beer scene | 25 min |
What It Costs
Lot rent is $550 a month. That covers:
- Water
- Sewer
- Trash and recycling
- Upkeep of common areas
The first phase is full, but they're working on Phase 2, called Tiger Lily.
What Residents Say
One happy resident shared:
"Living at Acony Bell is a dream! I love my neighbors, the mountains are in your backyard, and the management is great!"
Want to try before you buy? Acony Bell offers short-term rentals. It's a great way to test out tiny living before making the leap.
2. Orlando Lakefront (Florida)
Orlando Lakefront is a tiny house paradise on Lake Fairview, just 7 minutes from downtown Orlando. This former 1950s RV park turned upscale tiny home community now houses about 30 tiny homes and 27 RVs.
What's Cool About It?
- Free dock access for boating and fishing
- Pet-friendly spaces
- Community laundry room
- Shared garden
Living Options
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Stay for good | 50 spaces to lease |
| Short visits | 9 Airbnb tiny homes |
| Bring your home | Full hookups ready |
Costs
- Lot leases: $350 to $650 per month
- Waitlist fee: $200 (for permanent spots)
Try It Out
Not sure about tiny living? Rent an Airbnb tiny home here and see if it's for you.
What People Say
Adam Money, the owner, says:
"We offer lots to tiny housers who want to legally park, live by a beautiful lake, and enjoy all a nearby city has to offer."
Theme Park Heaven
Love roller coasters? You're in luck:
- 20 minutes from major attractions
- Easy access to Orlando's famous entertainment
Orlando Lakefront shows you can live tiny without giving up comfort or fun. It's perfect for downsizers who want nature AND city life.
3. Escalante Village (Colorado)
Tucked away in Durango, Colorado, Escalante Village is a tiny home community that packs a big punch. With 24 homes at 6,512 feet elevation, it's a mountain lover's dream.
Location and Amenities
Escalante Village is perfectly positioned:
- 15 minutes from downtown Durango
- Near the Animas River and trail networks
The village has you covered with:
| Amenity | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Utilities | Water, electric, sewer, WiFi |
| Outdoor Spaces | Community garden, shared areas |
| Services | Snow removal, trash/recycling |
| Parking | Two spaces per lot |
Living Options
You can rent or own here:
- 18 spaces for your own tiny home
- 6 rental tiny homes
Each 20x40 foot lot gives you room to breathe.
Costs
Living tiny in Durango won't break the bank:
- Lot rental: $500/month
- Tiny home rental: $1,100/month (including lot)
That's a steal compared to $1,000 for a typical one-bedroom in town.
Community Vibe
Escalante Village isn't just about small homes. It's about:
- Shared gardens
- A mix of home styles
- Being pet-friendly
As resident Sandra Brooks puts it:
"Here, we're a tourist attraction."
Outdoor Paradise
Love nature? You're in luck:
- Hiking and biking trails
- Great fly-fishing
- Year-round outdoor fun
Whether you're all-in on tiny living or just curious, Escalante Village lets you live small while soaking up Colorado's great outdoors.
4. Tiny Tranquility (Oregon)
Tiny Tranquility, a coastal gem between Waldport and Yachats, opened in 2018. It's a haven for tiny home enthusiasts, offering both long-term living and short-term stays.
What's Cool About It?
- Beach access with ocean views
- Nature paths
- Game room (2,400 sq ft) with TV, ping pong, and pool
- Outdoor hangout spot with covered eating area, grills, and fire pit
- Dog park
Living Options
| Stay Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Long-term | $650-$700/month + electricity |
| Nightly | Tiny homes and vintage trailers available |
| Extra storage | $60/month (includes greenhouse use) |
The Vibe
It's eco-friendly, welcoming, and quiet. One resident raved:
"It's nestled between forest and ocean. It's eco-conscious, residents are friendly, and the owner was helpful. It's nice and quiet. You can hear the ocean from the property. It's a uniquely wonderful experience!"
Good to Know
- Only for park models and tiny home trailers that qualify as RVs
- Check if your tiny home fits before moving in
- Nearby: hiking, fishing, an aquarium, and restaurants
Tiny Tranquility? It's coastal living, downsized but not downgraded.
5. LuxTiny (Arizona)
LuxTiny is Arizona's first tiny home community. It's in the White Mountains and spans 6 acres. The community blends desert living with modern comforts and eco-friendly practices.
Community Layout
LuxTiny has 41 lots, each about 3,500 square feet. That's way bigger than your average RV park. Here's what you get:
- Your own yard and driveway
- Personal mailbox
- A big walking path (19,000 sq ft) with benches
- Future plans for gazebos, grills, and a community garden
Home Options
You can bring your own tiny home or choose from LuxTiny Manufacturing's models. They range from 160 to 399 square feet. Here are some popular ones:
| Model | Size (sq ft) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Sherry | 399 | $109,000 |
| The Long | 288 | $69,000 |
| The Julie | 399 + 200 loft | $119,900 |
| The Liz | 399 | $99,900 |
| The Brody | Two-bedroom | $119,900 |
Going Green
LuxTiny wants to be a green community in a few years. They're pushing for:
- Solar panels
- Greenhouses
- Chicken coops
The goal? Net-zero emissions.
Costs
Living at LuxTiny is pretty affordable:
- Lease: $329 - $459 per month (includes water, sewer, and trash)
- Home prices: Start at $64,900
- Rentals: About $800 per month
Want to reserve a spot? Put down a $500 deposit. It's non-refundable, but it goes towards your lease when you sign.
Location Perks
LuxTiny is close to some cool spots:
- Scott's Reservoir
- Rainbow Lake
- Show Low Lake
Perfect for outdoor fun and relaxation.
In short, LuxTiny is a desert haven for tiny home lovers. It's affordable, sustainable, and right in the heart of Arizona's beautiful landscape.
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6. The Sanctuary (Minnesota)
73 miles north of Minneapolis, The Sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat for tiny home lovers. This adults-only community sits on 80 acres of woods and trails, focusing on sustainability and community.
What's on offer?
- 6-month lot rentals: $350-$450/month
- 15 amp electrical hookups
- Common area with bathrooms and laundry
- Yoga sessions
- Community gardens
Residents handle their own propane, sewer, and water hookups. It's all about self-sufficiency here.
Bill Campbell, co-owner, says:
"We're not looking to build a major population here. We're limiting it to people ready for this environment."
| Amenity | Available? |
|---|---|
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Community gardens | Yes |
| Shared kitchens | Yes |
| Outdoor BBQ areas | Yes |
| Pets | Cats yes, dogs maybe |
The Sanctuary fits right in with Minnesota's tiny home scene. The state ranks 4th for off-grid living and has an average yard size of 0.39 acres. Perfect for downsizing and getting close to nature.
Want to try before you commit? The Sanctuary rents tiny homes and hosts workshops and retreats. It's a great way to dip your toes into simple living.
7. Tiny Estates (Pennsylvania)
Tiny Estates in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, is a 14-acre lakeside community that's all about compact living. Started in 2018, it's grown to 58 lots and aims to hit 100 soon.
This place isn't just for full-timers. It's got a mix of permanent homes and vacation spots. Want to live here? Monthly lot rentals start at $650, which covers the basics like utilities and internet. Just visiting? Nightly stays run $75 to $149.
What's cool about Tiny Estates? Check it out:
| Amenity | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Community Garden | Grow your own veggies |
| Firepit | Hang out with neighbors |
| Laundry | No need to leave for clean clothes |
| Dog Park | Let Fido run free |
| Mailbox Area | Get your mail in one spot |
But it's not just about the amenities. Owner Abby Shank says:
"Everybody kind of has a different lifestyle and a reason for having their tiny home, but it's created this nice, well-rounded sense of community."
They've got 'Community Days' with game nights and knitting circles. It's all about bringing people together.
Now, a heads up: some guests have mentioned cleanliness issues. So, if you're thinking of staying or moving in, take a look at recent reviews first.
Tiny Estates is part of a bigger trend. Abby Shank puts it this way:
"The hope for us is more of an affordable housing community and a better option for people who want something permanent."
Bottom line? Tiny Estates is showing us what compact, community-focused living can look like in Pennsylvania. It's not perfect, but it's definitely interesting.
8. River Ridge Escape (Georgia)
Perched on Lookout Mountain in Georgia, River Ridge Escape is a tiny home community that's anything but small on charm. It's where compact living meets the great outdoors.
This place is HUGE on space. We're talking about 50 tiny houses, each with a whopping 30,000 square feet lot. That's a lot of breathing room!
Here's what you'll pay for land rent:
| Lot Size | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Standard | $395 |
| Medium | $450 |
| Large | $525 |
Want to buy? They've got two options:
| Home Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Economy | $128,000 |
| Luxury | $169,000 |
But here's the kicker: River Ridge Escape is all about outdoor living. Two rivers run through it, and they've got kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards ready for you.
And that's not all. You'll find:
- Hiking trails
- Fishing spots
- A community pool
- A shared garden
- A dog park
It's like a summer camp, but you get to live there year-round!
Worried about security? Don't be. The place is gated, so you can sleep easy.
Curious? They offer tours at their Cloudland dealership, Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm EST. It's your chance to try tiny living on for size.
River Ridge Escape shows that going small doesn't mean giving up the good life. It's proof that sometimes, less really is more.
9. Modern Tiny Village (Ohio)
Modern Tiny Village in Shawnee, Ohio, is shaking up urban living. This Black Diamond Development project blends compact homes with shared workspaces.
Opening in phases, the first 15 spots are up for grabs from May 31. Here's the scoop:
Rent: $500/month (all utilities included). Long-term leases (13+ months) get a sweet deal at $400/month.
What's on offer?
- Coworking space
- Sewage and water
- Trash pickup
- Free Wi-Fi
- Community garden
- Shared kitchen
- Laundry
- Pet-friendly options
But that's not all. The village is packed with perks:
Bike storage, grills, parking, gym, recycling, 24/7 security, mail services, green spaces, fire pit, book exchange, yoga studio, art studio, tool sharing, and community workshops.
Jazzma Quinn from Black Diamond Development says:
"We're building a community of tiny homes for year-round living."
This isn't your average vacation spot. It's a full-time tiny living experience.
Location: Tucked in Wayne National Forest, you get city perks with a nature backdrop.
Heads up: Spots are going fast. There's already a waiting list, so don't drag your feet.
Modern Tiny Village isn't just a place to crash. It's a lifestyle choice that won't break the bank. Whether you're a remote worker or looking to downsize, this Ohio community might be your next big (tiny) move.
10. Tiny House Block (California)
Tiny House Block in Mount Laguna, California, is the state's first tiny home village. It's a mix of minimalist living and outdoor adventure on 3.5 acres.
The village offers:
- Short-term and long-term rentals
- Over 10 themed tiny homes
- Community garden and grill area
- Walking trails
- Pet-friendly environment
- On-site restaurant: Pine House Cafe and Tavern
For longer stays, you get:
- Water and septic
- Trash services
- Wi-Fi
- Assigned parking
Founders Melissa and Jon Block created a space to unplug and reconnect with nature.
"We're dedicated to connecting individuals to beautiful mountains and hiking, minimalist values, and genuine community", says Melissa Block.
Heads up: Some visitors have mentioned cleanliness issues in certain units. Check recent reviews before booking.
Tiny House Block is great for nature lovers and hikers. It's one of the few legal tiny home communities in Southern California, perfect for trying out or committing to a downsized lifestyle.
11. Harbor Point Estates (Illinois)
Harbor Point Estates in southeastern Chicago is a tiny home and RV community that's all about lakefront living. It's right near the Indiana border, giving you a taste of nature without being too far from the city.
Here's what you'll find at Harbor Point Estates:
- Lakefront plots with full hookups
- A community center and clubhouse
- A playground for the kids
- Lakes, forests, and hiking trails all around
- Easy highway access
You're just a short drive from downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan. It's perfect if you want a bit of peace and quiet but still need to zip into the city now and then.
Thinking about moving in? Here's what it'll cost you:
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent a home | $900 - $1,400 |
| Bring your own home/RV | From $650/month for the lot |
And good news for pet owners - your furry friends are welcome here!
One resident, Dani, had this to say:
"Great management! Beautiful homes and nice location off of the lake!!!"
Harbor Point Estates isn't just about tiny homes - it's about community. The shared spaces help you meet your neighbors, and there's plenty to do outdoors.
Whether you're dipping your toes into tiny living or ready to downsize for good, Harbor Point Estates has options. Bring your own tiny home or RV, or check out their manufactured homes. It's a great place to try out a simpler lifestyle.
12. Bluegrass Tiny Ridge (Kentucky)
Bluegrass Tiny Ridge is a tiny home community in Central Kentucky. It's 2.5 miles from Lancaster's town square on a 21-acre property. This adult-only, non-smoking spot is perfect for simple living fans.
What's included:
- 4 tiny home spaces
- Big personal plots
- Shared farm area
- Farmland and wildlife views
Lot rent is $450/month. Here's what you get:
| Included | Extra Perks |
|---|---|
| Water and sewer | Group firepit |
| Trash pickup | Walking paths |
| Mailbox | Dog park |
| Storage unit | Storm shelter |
| Lawn care | Community garden |
You'll pay separately for electricity and internet.
The owners, Kim & Arthur Hollis, say:
"We wanted to create a peaceful place where people can make friends and enjoy tiny living together."
Nature lovers will dig the nearby hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife. Bourbon Trail and wineries are close too.
Want in? You need to:
- Pay $450 monthly rent
- Own or plan to build a tiny home
- Pass a background check
Bluegrass Tiny Ridge: Where rural peace meets local perks.
What to Know Before Moving In
Thinking about joining a tiny house community? Here's what you need to know:
Zoning and Legal Considerations
Tiny house laws are all over the map in the U.S. Some places welcome them, others don't:
- California: Tiny house heaven (15.5% of U.S. tiny homes)
- Maine: Calls homes under 400 sq ft "tiny"
- Texas: Austin says "build any size, just add a foundation"
But watch out: Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana, North Dakota, New Jersey, New York, Wisconsin, and West Virginia say "no thanks" to tiny homes.
Cost Comparison
Tiny homes can be cheap, but not always:
| Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| DIY | $30,000 - $60,000 |
| Pre-built | $100,000 - $150,000 |
Most folks pay between $30,000 and $53,335, with the average at $46,670.
Size and Space Considerations
Tiny homes are usually 100-400 sq ft. That's SMALL. You'll need to:
- Get creative with storage (maybe rent a unit)
- Rethink hosting guests
- Adjust to less personal space
Community Guidelines
Each tiny community has its own vibe. Take Bluegrass Tiny Ridge in Kentucky:
- $450 monthly rent
- Background checks required
- Adults only, no smoking
Weather Factors
Climate matters in a tiny home. One family braved an Ohio winter - it wasn't easy.
Hidden Costs
Don't forget about:
- Prepping your land
- Upkeep
- Insurance ($100/month)
- Utilities ($125/month)
Lifestyle Adjustment
Tiny living means:
- More outdoor time
- Constant decluttering
- Getting used to things like compost toilets
"Living simply brings us together." - Amanda Burger, Orlando Lakefront community resident
Final Thoughts
Tiny houses are taking off in the US. More people want simpler, cheaper living. And cities are catching on, relaxing laws to allow these mini-homes.
But it's not just about the houses. It's about community. Take Orlando Lakefront in Florida. Residents share spaces and hang out together. It's a whole new way of living.
Thinking of joining a tiny house community? Here's what to look at:
- Where it is and what the weather's like
- Community vibe and rules
- What perks you get
- Can you try before you buy?
Tiny living isn't just about less space. It's a lifestyle shift. Many find they owe less, pay less, and have more time for what counts.
The future? It's looking good for tiny communities. A recent survey shows 73% of Americans might go tiny. And 65% like the idea of tiny communities. That's a lot of interest.
Young pros, small families, retirees - there's probably a tiny community for you. As this picks up steam, it's changing how we think about owning homes and living green.
Tiny houses aren't a fad. They're becoming a real option for many. With their focus on keeping it simple, affordable, and social, tiny house communities are set to make a big impact on US housing.
