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Is a double storey home cheaper than single?

Per square metre, double storey homes are often slightly cheaper to build than equivalent single storey footprints — because the roof and slab costs are shared across two levels. However, stairs, additional engineering and access complexity add cost.

What block size do I need for a double storey?

Double storey homes can be built on smaller blocks — as small as 300–350sqm in some designs. Single storey homes need more land area to accommodate the same floor space.

Does a double storey add resale value?

It depends on the market. In areas where land is expensive, double storey can add value by maximising living space on a smaller lot. In regional areas or on larger blocks, single storey may be preferred.

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Home Design

Single Storey vs Double Storey Homes

One level or two? The key differences in cost, land requirements, liveability and resale value between single and double storey new homes.

6 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Introduction

Choosing between single and double storey is one of the first major design decisions when building. Each has distinct advantages depending on your block, family stage, lifestyle and budget. Understanding the real cost and liveability differences helps you make the right choice before committing to a floor plan.

Feature	Single Storey	Double Storey
Land requirement	Larger block needed for same floor space	Smaller block — builds vertically
Build cost	Higher per sqm (more roof/slab)	Lower per sqm (shared structure)
Accessibility	Excellent — all on one level	Stairs required
Privacy (sleeping zones)	Same level as living	Upstairs — separated from living
Views	Limited	Better — elevated rooms
Ageing in place	Ideal	More challenging
Resale	Strong — wide buyer appeal	Strong in urban/smaller land

Pros

+ Single storey is ideal for families with young children or accessibility needs
+ Double storey maximises living space on smaller blocks
+ Double storey provides better privacy separation of sleeping/living zones
+ Single storey is simpler to build — fewer structural complexities

Cons

− Single storey requires a larger block — more expensive land in urban areas
− Double storey adds stair cost and reduces floor space efficiency slightly
− Double storey is harder to modify or extend later
− Single storey has larger roof footprint — higher roof cost

Frequently Asked Questions

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Single Storey vs Double Storey Homes

Introduction

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

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