Why Are Container Homes So Popular Among Millennials?

Dec 12, 2023

Millennials are the trendsetters in the housing market. Whereas their grandparents could work a job that only required a diploma and pay off a home while supporting a family, this generation isn't getting that same benefit. It's resulted in many people in this age group going outside of the norm to determine their own housing […]

By Qrius

Millennials are the trendsetters in the housing market. Whereas their grandparents could work a job that only required a diploma and pay off a home while supporting a family, this generation isn't getting that same benefit. It's resulted in many people in this age group going outside of the norm to determine their own housing situation, and the latest trend involves transforming shipping containers into homes. There are several reasons these are so popular.

Millennials have become known for not wasting things as much as older generations. If there is something not being used, they can usually find a purpose for it, as is the case with shipping containers. There are around 17 million shipping containers worldwide, but only 6 million of them are in use. That leaves 11 million shipping containers merely sitting there that can be used for something, such as homes.

One of the main reasons millennials aren't buying homes is that the market isn't affordable, which is where shipping containers enter the equation. According to Kitchen Infinity, 22% of homeowners spend $5,000-$15,000 on home projects. However, someone can purchase a shipping container for a couple thousand dollars, and spend the rest of that money converting it into a house.

Transforming a shipping container into a home doesn't lead to a drab tiny home that looks industrial or is uncomfortable. According to the EIA, up to 87% of homes in America have air conditioning. Millennials that opt for container homes can install air conditioning, plumbing, electricity, and everything else you’ll find in other homes.

Not only are these homes convenient tiny homes that are able to fulfill the dream of owning a home, but they are also quickly constructed. When you hire a company to design and build the home with you, you can enjoy a home in as little as one to two months. Traditional homes, on the other hand, can take several months or one to two years to complete.

One of the primary concerns regarding container homes is that they are so small, but millennials and manufacturers have figured out a wonderful solution to this problem. Modern container homes are modular, meaning that they can be as big as you need them to be. Some people have built houses with multiple bedrooms, large living rooms, and even a container guest home!

When it comes to durability, a traditional wood house can't compete with weathered steel that is designed to hold up to the rough ocean while transporting cargo. This type of steel is more likely to hold up to extreme weather conditions. Homeowners don't have to worry about common situations that happen with other homes, such as water getting in around the windows and leading to mold.

Shipping containers can easily be uprooted and moved to another location. For example, the way shipping containers are often moved to transport cargo. This gives millennials the opportunity to live wherever they want and take their home with them. This generation is known for being more free-spirited than previous generations, instantly making mobile homes more appealing.

Every aspect of container homes is customizable. Owners can install windows and appliances. Those that aren't a fan of the tiny home movement can enjoy larger homes at an affordable price. Shipping containers can be painted to provide a cozy atmosphere instead of the appearance of gleaming metal. Shipping containers offer millennials the opportunity to own the home of their dreams.

Shipping containers are affordable, customizable, and can easily make it possible for everyone to own a home. It's no wonder why they are trending!

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