5 Key Differences Between Tiny Homes vs Yurts for Aspiring Minimalists to Make Informed Choices

The tiny living movement is growing as people seek simpler, eco-friendly, and cost-effective housing. Tiny houses and yurts are popular choices, each with its own advantages and challenges. This post will compare them to help you choose the right one for you.

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Size

Tiny homes, whether on wheels or built with traditional materials, typically fall within the 400-square-foot range. This size allows a degree of flexibility in design and positioning, offering opportunities for passive heating and cooling as well as off-grid living.

Despite their small size, tiny homes can still be designed to feel spacious and modern, catering to those who value minimalism without sacrificing comfort.

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On the other hand, yurts—originating from Central Asia—are circular dwellings with a slightly domed top. They typically stand a little over 2 meters (6 feet) high and can comfortably house between five and 15 people.

Their unique shape and structure make them a fascinating example of space efficiency, utilizing every square inch of space to its fullest potential.

Building Materials and Construction

Tiny homes are constructed much like traditional homes, only on a smaller scale. They can be built using a variety of materials, ranging from wood to metal, and even reclaimed materials for those with an eco-conscious mindset.

The construction of a tiny home also allows for a high degree of customization, from the layout to the choice of fixtures and finishes.

Yurts, in contrast, have a distinct construction process that involves a collapsible wood frame and packable fabric walls.

This simple yet robust structure allows for quick setup and takedown—usually between 30 minutes and 3 hours—and offers a unique blend of permanence and portability.

However, it should be noted that the fabric walls and roof of a yurt typically need replacement every 5-10 years, adding to the maintenance cost.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

When it comes to insulation and energy efficiency, both tiny homes and yurts can be designed with sustainability in mind. Tiny homes, due to their similarity to traditional homes, can be insulated just as effectively using similar materials and techniques.

Their small size also means less space to heat or cool, leading to lower energy consumption overall. Yurts, while not inherently as insulated as tiny homes, can be adapted for improved energy efficiency.

The round shape of a yurt promotes the natural circulation of air, which can help maintain a comfortable temperature inside.

Additionally, insulating materials can be added to the fabric walls and roof to enhance heat retention during colder months.

Portability and Mobility

One of the main advantages of tiny homes, particularly those built on wheels, is their mobility. This allows homeowners to change their location as desired, offering a level of freedom that traditional housing cannot match. However, moving a tiny home requires a suitable vehicle and can be quite a task due to its weight and size.

Yurts offer an even greater level of portability. As nomadic tents, they are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, making them ideal for those who frequently move locations. The collapsible wood frame and packable fabric walls make them relatively lightweight and easy to transport compared to tiny homes.

Customization Options and Design

The possibilities for customization are virtually endless with tiny homes. From the layout to the finishes, homeowners can create a space that truly reflects their personal style and needs. While the compact size may pose some design challenges, creative solutions can lead to highly functional and unique living spaces.

Designing a yurt’s interior presents a different set of challenges due to its circular shape and curved walls. Traditional furniture and fixtures may not fit or function well within this unique space.

However, these challenges can be met with creativity, resulting in a living space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Some owners opt to build interior structures with flat walls for added versatility.

Cost and Affordability

In terms of cost, both tiny homes and yurts are generally cheaper than traditional houses due to their smaller size. Tiny homes can range from $30,000 to $60,000 depending on the materials used and the level of customization.

Yurts, being simpler in design and construction, typically cost between $12,000 and $30,000. However, ongoing maintenance costs, such as replacing the fabric of a yurt every 5-10 years, should be factored into the overall affordability of each option.

Sustainability and Eco-friendliness

Both tiny homes and yurts score high on sustainability. They require fewer materials to build, consume less energy, and encourage a minimalist lifestyle that reduces waste.

However, the level of eco-friendliness can be further enhanced depending on the choice of building materials (for example, using reclaimed materials for a tiny home) and energy sources (such as installing solar panels).

Zoning Laws and Legal Considerations

Zoning laws can pose challenges for both tiny homes and yurts, as they often don’t fit neatly into existing property and housing codes.

Laws vary widely by location, so it’s important to research local regulations before committing to either option. Some areas may have size requirements or restrictions on permanent versus temporary dwellings that could impact your decision.

Lifestyle and Cultural Factors

Choosing a tiny home or a yurt also involves considering how well each option aligns with your lifestyle and values. If you value modern design and customization, a tiny home may be more appealing.

If you’re drawn to a nomadic way of life and appreciate the simplicity and history of yurt living, a yurt may be the better choice.

Space Efficiency and Clutter Reduction

Living in a tiny home or a yurt necessitates a certain level of minimalism and efficient use of space. Both options can help to reduce clutter and promote a more mindful way of living, as they force you to consider what items are truly necessary and valuable in your life.

The design of a yurt, with its open floor plan and absence of corners, can particularly help to minimize clutter and create a sense of spaciousness despite the compact square footage.

Is a yurt better than a tiny home?

Whether a yurt is better than a tiny home depends on individual needs and preferences. Yurts can be more affordable and portable, making them ideal for those who move frequently or want a temporary dwelling.

However, their fabric walls and unique shapes present certain challenges in terms of insulation, privacy, and interior design. On the other hand, tiny homes offer a greater degree of customization and can feel more like traditional homes, which may be preferable for those seeking a more permanent solution.

Is a yurt a tiny home?

By the basic definition of square footage, a yurt can indeed be considered a tiny home. However, there are significant differences in design, construction, and lifestyle between yurts and what most people envision as a tiny home (i.e., a small dwelling on wheels or built with traditional materials).

While both options fall under the umbrella of compact living, they cater to different tastes and needs.

What are the negatives of a yurt home?

While yurts offer many benefits such as affordability and portability, they also come with some drawbacks. The fabric walls need regular replacement, adding to maintenance costs.

The circular shape and curved walls can make interior design more challenging, and the lack of separate rooms may not suit everyone’s lifestyle. Additionally, yurts may not be as well-insulated as traditional or tiny homes, potentially leading to higher energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Is it cheaper to live in a yurt?

In general, living in a yurt can be cheaper than living in a traditional home or even a tiny house due to lower upfront costs. However, there are additional costs to consider, such as the need to replace the fabric cover every 5-10 years and potential insulation issues that could increase energy costs.

Furthermore, the affordability of living in a yurt also depends on factors like local zoning laws and land costs.