Two years of significant home price appreciation has resulted in national concerns about housing affordability. However, in new research by Freddie Mac, 6-in-10 individuals say they would consider purchasing the type of dwelling that has become the largest source of unsubsidized affordable housing in the United States: manufactured housing.

Construction costs for manufactured homes are typically lower, which may have contributed to their growing popularity in recent years. According to recent U.S. Census data, 6.2% of people currently live in manufactured homes.

A recent Freddie Mac housing survey shows that general familiarity with manufactured housing is relatively high, with 47% of respondents saying they are somewhat or very familiar with manufactured housing. In the study, 62% of people say they are likely to consider purchasing a manufactured home in the future.

Perception of Manufactured Homes

The overall perception of manufactured homes is positive, according to the survey results.

All told, 77% of people who are aware of manufactured homes expressed a positive sentiment toward these homes, describing them as “new,” “efficient,” “affordable” and “easy.” Most agree that there are tangible benefits to manufactured homes, including the following:

  • Allow a wide range of customization.
  • Affordable without compromising on quality.
  • Ecofriendly and energy efficient.
  • A good investment.  

Who Is Likely to Consider Buying a Manufactured Home?

Although 62% of people say they are likely to consider purchasing a manufactured home in the future, certain populations are more likely than others to buy them. The survey results were analyzed by generation, race, urbanicity and household income to take a closer look at trends in likelihood to purchase a manufactured home.

Household income did not affect respondents’ reported likelihood to purchase, but the survey data shows that those with an annual income less than $50,000 have a significantly more positive perception of manufactured homes than the total sample or other income groups.

Likelihood to Consider Purchasing: By Generation

Generation Likelihood to Purchase
Millennials 68%
Gen X 62%
Gen Z 61%
Boomers 40%


Likelihood to Consider Purchasing: By Race

Race Likelihood to Purchase
Black 66%
Hispanic 61%
White 61%


Likelihood to Consider Purchasing: By Urbanicity

Urbanicity Likelihood to Purchase
Urban 67%
Rural 64%
Suburban 56%


The 2022 Manufactured Housing Survey was fielded April 7-11, 2022, and includes responses from 2,092 respondents age 18 and older. The survey oversampled for Black and Hispanic consumers, Gen Z and Millennials.

Interested in more consumer research? Gain insights into the housing market from surveys of homebuyers, homeowners and renters in Freddie Mac Consumer Research.

Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and other views contained in this document are those of Freddie Mac’s economists and other researchers, do not necessarily represent the views of Freddie Mac or its management, and should not be construed as indicating Freddie Mac’s business prospects or expected results. Although the authors attempt to provide reliable, useful information, they do not guarantee that the information or other content in this document is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. All content is subject to change without notice. All content is provided on an “as is” basis, with no warranties of any kind whatsoever. Information from this document may be used with proper attribution. Alteration of this document or its content is strictly prohibited. ©2024 by Freddie Mac.