My first encounter with different types of houses came through playing the The Game of Life. During the board game, when it was time to buy a home, I always hoped to choose the charming purple Victorian over the shabby split-level. Reflecting now, I wish I had hoped for house prices to match real-life real estate—$200,000 for a house with a library, parlor, marble fireplaces, and a wraparound porch? Sign me up for a down payment!
But life isn’t a board game, and there are far more than nine different styles of houses to explore. There are myriad styles of houses across the U.S. For instance, the Ranch style is prevalent in the Midwest, Colonial Revival styles of houses are common on the East Coast, and Spanish Colonial styles thrive in California. The popularity of these types can vary by region, making it challenging to differentiate between styles.
By examining architectural elements like trim, rooflines, the number of floors, and building materials, you can determine which types of houses you prefer and which ones don’t appeal to you, once you’re acquainted with all the styles available. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of the most common types of houses, highlighting their defining features. Read on for our guide on types of houses from A to Z—or V, so to speak.
Additional copy from Caroline Picard and Hadley Keller.
Brownstone
Most commonly seen in New York City, but also found in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and other urban areas, brownstones are defined not by their look but by their materials. The brown sandstone that was used to coat the exterior of these brick houses built in the early 19th century gives them their name.
A-Frame
As the name suggests, A-frame homes are characterized by a triangular silhouette in the shape of a capital A. Most common in northern parts of the U.S., they’re designed so that snow and rain side easily down the sloped roof.
Cape Cod
A standout example of both Colonial and Colonial Revival architecture, Cape Cod–style homes dot suburbs across New England. The low, single-story types of houses usually feature a large central chimney and little ornamentation.
