Study reveals states with the most overcrowded homes in the US

LOS ANGELES - Overcrowded homes are far more common than many may realize, affecting nearly 19.1 million people across the United States. 

Defined as housing units with more than two residents per bedroom, overcrowding can stem from high housing costs, multigenerational living, or simply the lack of affordable space.

A new LendingTree analysis based on U.S. Census Bureau data shows which states are most impacted — and where Americans are more likely to enjoy extra space instead.

Which states have the most overcrowded homes?

By the numbers:

California leads the nation with 12.9% of its population living in overcrowded homes — more than 4.9 million people. Hawaii follows at 11.5%, and New York ranks third at 9.7%. LendingTree’s analysis suggests that these states’ high housing costs are a driving factor.

LendingTree chief consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz says families in these areas may be making real sacrifices to afford homeownership. "That’s a real sacrifice, but it’s one that many Americans are willing to make to realize their dream of owning a home," he said.

Multigenerational housing, which is more common in places like California and Hawaii, may also contribute to overcrowding rates. While it can help families save money, it often comes at the cost of personal space.

In contrast, Vermont has the lowest percentage of people living in overcrowded homes at just 2.4%, followed by West Virginia (2.5%), and both New Hampshire and Maine (2.7%).

Top 10 states with the highest percentage of people in overcrowded homes

California – 12.9%

Hawaii – 11.5%

New York – 9.7%

Alaska – 8.8%

Texas – 7.4%

District of Columbia – 6.7%

New Jersey – 6.6%

Arizona – 6.3%

Nevada – 6.0%

Washington – 5.6%

These percentages represent the share of people living in homes with more than two residents per bedroom — a common benchmark for overcrowding.

See the full rankings of states with the highest rates of overcrowded homes in LendingTree’s latest housing analysis.

Where do Americans have the most extra bedroom space?

By the numbers:

While overcrowding affects millions, many Americans live in homes with more bedrooms than people. In fact, 38.1% of Americans live in homes with extra space — including 8.2% who have at least three additional bedrooms.

The states with the most extra bedrooms per household are Wyoming (47.2%), Delaware (46.9%) and North Dakota (46.4%). Schulz said lower housing costs in these areas may allow families to enjoy home offices, media rooms or spare guest bedrooms.

On the other end, residents in the District of Columbia (29.3%), Hawaii (29.8%) and California (31.3%) are the least likely to have extra bedrooms.

Which states have the largest total surplus or shortage of bedrooms?

Big picture view:

LendingTree also looked at bedroom counts per capita, factoring in vacant homes and excluding people in group quarters like prisons and dorms. Florida came out on top with a surplus of 8.8 million bedrooms — likely bolstered by vacation properties. Texas (6.6 million) and California (5.2 million) also had significant surpluses.

New York, however, was the only state with a bedroom shortage — 2.2 million fewer than its population.

When adjusted per 1,000 people, Maine had the largest surplus (674 extra bedrooms per 1,000 residents), followed by Vermont (630) and North Dakota (496). New York again came in last, with 114 fewer bedrooms per 1,000 residents.

How can families avoid overcrowded housing?

What you can do:

LendingTree’s Matt Schulz offers several strategies for families trying to avoid overcrowding while managing housing costs:

• Be flexible: Consider relocating to cities with lower housing costs or being open to lifestyle changes.
• Shop around: Even small changes in mortgage rates can mean thousands in savings.
• Plan your down payment: Use mortgage calculators to understand what’s truly affordable before committing to a home.

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