Tiny House vs RV: What are the Differences and Which One is Better

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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton

Tiny House vs RV: What are the Differences and Which One is Better

The debate about opting for a tiny house or an RV is becoming increasingly relevant in modern minimalistic living. Both choices offer unique benefits and challenges, appealing to those looking to downsize and embrace a more mobile lifestyle.

Key Takeaway

The report concludes that tiny houses and RVs have pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your priorities. Tiny houses are better for those who prioritize affordability in the long term, living in one place and minimizing their environmental impact. RVs are better for those who prioritize travel, affordability upfront and more space.

Summary

• • Tiny House:
    • More affordable in the long term
    • Not meant for constant travel
    • Environmentally friendly
    • Difficult to get financing
    • Less spacious
  • RV:
    • More affordable upfront
    • Built for travel
    • Easier to get financing
    • More Spacious
    • Less durable

Are you planning on reducing your ecological footprint or tired of the rigidity of rent? In either case, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. We have devised a comprehensive guide to help you decide which type of housing will best suit your needs.

In recent years, people have shifted from their taut lifestyles to more flexible and easygoing ones. For this reason, there has been a striking rise in the purchase of Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and Tiny homes.

Both these housing setups have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages. However, considering cost, size, and comfort, we aim to find out which stands out.

What is a Recreational Vehicle?

A Recreational Vehicle, often termed an RV, is a specially designed automobile that features living quarters with various household amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and an entertaining area.

While these vehicles are great for traveling and adventure, some use them as their main house. 

Types of RV

There are three main types of RVs: Type A, Type B, and Type C.

• Type A

This motorhome is the largest and most luxurious of its kind. It has plenty of storage and a spacious living room. It can accommodate up to four people at a time and has a slide-out.

The only drawback of this vehicle is that it has a terrible fuel economy.

• Type B

Commonly known as a camper van, a type B RV has all the amenities of a type A RV but is much smaller. While there is enough room to stand up straight, the interior is a bit cramped.

Similarly, unlike type A, this motorhome does not have a slide-out. The best part about this vehicle is that it’s the least expensive.

• Type C

Type C motorhome is best suited for a large family. It has satisfactory fuel mileage and comes with two slide-outs. You can even tow your car with this RV. 

It has two double and two queen beds and can accommodate up to 8 people.

What is a Tiny House?

A tiny house is a small-sized home with square footage between 100 and 400. It can either be rented or owned. 

These homes can have their foundation laid on the ground or wheels. Most tiny homes are independent structures parked alone or with another building.

They come in various shapes and sizes and are a great example of a simple yet efficient lifestyle.

Living in a tiny house has financial advantages. The average American spends half of his income on accommodation, resulting in 76% of people living from paycheck to paycheck.

Living in a tiny house reduces your overall expenditure. You will save a lot of money, which you can invest elsewhere. Moreover, this way, you will also be looking after the environment.

Tiny House vs. RV: What Are The Differences And Which One Is Better

Now that we have an idea of the two types of housing setups, it is time to compare them comprehensively.

While RVs and tiny homes share many similarities, you must consider a few differences before making a purchase. In this article, we will highlight those differences to determine our winner.

Considering multiple factors such as cost, comfort, and affordability, we will help you determine which of the two housing setups best suits your needs. 

So, let’s dive in, shall we?

Cost Comparison

Building a tiny house from scratch ranges from around $160 per square foot. Considering that a tiny house is between 200 and 400 square feet, the overall expenditure of the entire project is much more than purchasing a second-hand RV.

A brand-new RV around 24 feet long and takes up 220 square feet of space will cost you $110 per foot. Moreover, the price falls dramatically if you consider buying a used motorhome.

You will save a lot of money you can spend on furnishing your motor vehicle’s interior.

However, the price of a tiny house does not fall even after several years of use. While this may be a drawback for purchasers, it is an advantage for the sellers.

In other words, buying a tiny house may cost you a lot, but it is a sound long-term investment. On the other hand, purchasing an RV may cost you less, but you might have to sell it at a lower price than the one you bought it in.

Financing Options

The great thing about an RV is that it is easy to get a loan if needed. However, the procedure isn’t as easy if you are trying to get a loan for a tiny house.

If you want a loan for a recreational vehicle, the procedure is the same as that for a car. Depending on the type of vehicle you are planning to buy, these loans can run for 10-20 years.

In contrast, financing options for tiny homes are few and shifty. Most banks shy away from loaning money for such projects because they don’t come under housing or motor vehicles. So, it’s hard to get them to finance the construction of your tiny home.

Since these projects are all do-it-yourself, it is hard for the financers to determine their entire cost.

Furthermore, the structure is not guaranteed to meet all the security standards stated under the law. Simply put, they don’t trust the project enough to invest in it.

Nevertheless, a few tiny house manufacturers are ready to finance their products, but finding a bank loan is not an option.

Ease of Traveling

Many people would choose a house, no matter how small, over an RV. While the idea of a small house looks pretty appealing, a tiny house will not withstand the constant pressure of motion. 

Moving a tiny house from one place to another stresses the structure. Many owners have complained that even after making short trips, they had to make some repairs in the house.

Thus, the overall expenditure is likely to increase manifolds.

A tiny house is a good option only for people planning to travel a short distance or to stay in just one area for most of the year. Buying an RV is best if you want to make small stops and be on the move.

An RV is built to withstand the constant pressure of motion. Its streamlined body ensures that the vehicle moves faster.

A recreational vehicle is built primarily for mobility; hence, the materials used in its structure complement its purpose. On the other hand, tiny homes aren’t constructed, considering the mobility factor.

Thus, they are comparatively heavy and, at the same time, less durable.

Size Comparison

When it comes to size, tiny homes take living minimalistic to a whole new level. 

The problem with this setup is that a tiny house can get very cramped fast, with only 400 square feet of room and no option to expand. This housing style is not an option for families with kids. 

In comparison, RVs are spacious and allow you to create more interior living space with slide-outs. These slide-outs are one of a recreational vehicle’s most significant selling points. They can expand your RV up to 500 square feet. 

Moreover, RVs have all of the amenities already installed in the motorhome. You will have an oven, a dishwasher, and even a dryer. In other words, there is no additional expenditure.

However, in the case of a tiny house, you have to buy all these appliances yourself and even fit them in the house yourself.

This can be a very tiresome job for most people, as not everyone is an architect. By the time you’re done, the house’s interior becomes so constricted and sparse that you hardly have space to add your personal belongings.

Comfort Comparison

Considering the size of a tiny house, it is best to purchase an RV. Depending on the type of RV you buy, you can accommodate up to 8 people in an RV at a time, which may be impossible for most tiny homes.

The number of bedrooms in an RV also varies according to its type. A Type C RV comes with two double and two queen beds. Similarly, a type A RV can have up to two double beds and one queen bed.

However, the number of rooms in a tiny house can be limited. Plus, it would help if you climbed a ladder in most tiny homes to get to your bedroom.

While this setup may be great for young couples, older couples may not prefer climbing a ladder whenever they need to use the restroom.

Not to forget, RVs have more oversized bathrooms and better cooking spaces.

Insurance

Due to the influx of tiny homes, most states in the US are trying to update their regulations to categorize tiny homes as legal residences.

However, the process seems slow, and for now, it is very difficult or, in other words, impossible to find insurance for a tiny house. That being said, any repair, little or big, may cost you a few thousand dollars.

You can only find insurance for a tiny house by setting it on a permanent foundation. If you plan to move the house to a different location, new problems will arise; your insurance company may not approve of the change and might withdraw its coverage.

Thankfully, Recreational vehicles are legally insurable, even if it is your permanent place of residence. You won’t have to worry about the damages even if you’re in a new location every other month.

Fitting In

RVs are pretty standard in the states. People always travel in RVs, so they tend to blend in. But tiny homes have their way of standing out.

Since their design, color, and size depend on each owner, tiny homes may not blend in easily. Be ready for people to ask you many questions and even give you a tour inside the house.

If you’re a private person, consider parking your house far away from the buzz of the city or town you’re visiting.

Reselling

Selling your RV is much easier than a tiny house. Many people are out there looking to purchase an RV, but a tiny house, not so much.

Similarly, putting the correct price tag on a tiny house is tough. You’re never exactly sure what it’s worth, but various factors can be considered in the case of an RV.

Moreover, multiple selling markets can help you find the right buyer for your RV.

Which RV is Easiest to Maintain?

When considering which RV is most accessible to maintain, Class B RVs stand out as the most cost-effective option for repair and upkeep.

Their compact size significantly reduces maintenance costs—on average, owners of Class B RVs spend 3-4 times less on repairs than larger RV classes.

This is primarily attributed to their straightforward design, which ensures they require fewer specialized parts that are often expensive and harder to source.

Additionally, the simplicity of their systems generally results in fewer labor hours needed for any necessary repairs, further driving down maintenance costs.

A Class B RV is an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a low-maintenance recreational vehicle.

What is a Good Size for a Tiny House?

When considering this matter, it is essential to factor in the needs and preferences of its future inhabitants. Typically, these compact dwellings span between 100 and 400 square feet, balancing minimalism and functionality.

Efficient use of space is paramount in tiny houses, so many opt for multi-functional furniture and innovative storage solutions.

The construction of these homes often involves traditional materials like wood and metal, but there is a growing trend towards incorporating recycled materials to promote sustainability.

Wrapping Up

The tiny house vs RV debate hinges on the homeowner’s intended use and personal preferences. Tiny houses are optimal for those seeking a full-time living solution, offering high levels of customization to reflect one’s unique style and needs.

Moreover, they are semi-permanent structures with a higher initial cost, are built for long-term use and durability, and can often be appreciated over time.

However, potential tiny house owners must navigate strict zoning laws that can vary significantly by location.

On the other hand, RVs cater more to individuals who prioritize travel and recreation. They are designed for easy travel and offer the flexibility to explore different locations.

Although personalization is more limited with RVs, their lower upfront cost makes them an attractive option for those who prefer a nomadic lifestyle.

Due to their lightweight construction, RVs are generally less durable than tiny houses, and they are subject to different regulations that may limit full-time living arrangements.

Therefore, when weighing tiny house vs RV options, it is imperative to consider factors like permanence, budget, lifestyle aspirations, and legal constraints.

Both housing choices present distinct advantages and limitations; thus, the decision should be tailored to align with one’s long-term living goals and mobility desires.

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