Are they more affordable than other types of housing?

Shipping container homes are not always cheaper to build than traditional stick-built homes, but they can be. There are a large number of variables that influence project cost, such as location, size, design, and interior finishes.

The cost of buying the container itself can range from $1,400 for smaller containers to up to $6,000 for a larger, brand new 40-foot container. Newer containers will cost more than older containers.

A shipping container comes with a flat metal roof, exterior walls, and a metal frame that can double as a foundation—these elements are often cited as cost savings. But you’ll still have to spend money on transporting the container to your site, insulation, and interior finishes.

You’ll also still need to pay for land. Container homes, however, can often be built on (properly zoned) land that might not be suitable for normal construction without a lot of site work. If a plot of land is rocky or steep, shipping container houses can be elevated on sturdy pilings instead of paying for pricey excavation.

If you want an already built shipping container home, these can be as affordable as $33,000 for the smallest, most basic units.