Manufactured Housing News

Homeowners insurance is a crucial investment—whether you live in a traditional site-built home or a manufactured home. But how much should you expect to pay, and what factors influence that price? The answer depends on your location, the type of home you own, and how much coverage you need. Understanding the nuances between different types of homes, including manufactured housing, can help you find the right policy for your situation.

Average Cost of Homeowners Insurance

The national average for homeowners insurance can vary significantly. Your premium is shaped by local weather patterns, crime rates, property values, and the construction type of your home. While manufactured homes may sometimes carry slightly higher premiums due to how they're built and where they're located, that’s not always the case—especially for newer models that meet modern safety standards.

Important Factors of Homeowners Insurance

1. Location and Risk Exposure

Whether you're insuring a traditional home or a manufactured one, geography matters. Properties in areas prone to wildfires, hurricanes, or floods generally face higher premiums. Manufactured homes installed in well-maintained communities or on permanent foundations may benefit from better rates, similar to site-built homes.

2. Rebuilding and Replacement Costs

Insurers don’t just look at your home’s market value—they estimate how much it would cost to rebuild from the ground up. Manufactured homes can sometimes be more affordable to replace, which might reduce your premium. However, older models or homes with custom upgrades may be assessed differently.

3. Coverage Levels and Deductibles

All homes, regardless of type, require adequate coverage for dwelling, personal property, liability, and living expenses. The more extensive your coverage, the more you’ll pay. Choosing a higher deductible can help lower monthly costs—but make sure it's an amount you can realistically afford in an emergency.

4. Home Type and Age

Manufactured homes built after 1976 (when HUD standards went into effect) are constructed to rigorous federal safety guidelines. Like traditional homes, newer models with upgraded roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems usually receive better insurance rates. Older homes, of any type, may be costlier to insure due to outdated components or structural wear.

5. Claims History and Credit Score

Your personal record matters too. Frequent past claims can raise your premiums, while a clean history and good credit score can reduce them. Most insurers consider these factors when underwriting both manufactured and traditional home policies.

Here are some other factors that may influence the cost of insurance for manufactured homes:

• Foundation type: Manufactured homes on permanent foundations often receive more favorable insurance rates than those on temporary supports or wheels.
• Community standards: Living in a managed manufactured home community may come with added safety measures and maintenance standards that can positively impact your insurance.
• Customization: Site-built homes tend to be more customizable, which affects replacement costs. However, many modern manufactured homes now offer high-end features and modular designs that increase their insurability.

How Homeowners Insurance Costs Vary by State

Homeowners insurance premiums can vary drastically depending on where you live, due to differences in climate risks, construction costs, and state regulations.

States prone to natural disasters generally have higher insurance rates. For example, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas often top the charts due to hurricanes, flooding, and tornadoes. California sees elevated rates because of wildfires and earthquakes.

Related: South Carolina Mobile Home Flood Insurance Guide

Rebuilding costs also play a role—homes in states with higher labor and material costs, such as Massachusetts, tend to have more expensive policies. Crime rates can impact premiums as well; urban areas with higher property crime often pay more.

State regulations influence how insurers calculate risk and set rates. Some states cap rate increases or require broader coverage, affecting overall cost. Market competition matters too—states with fewer insurance providers may see higher premiums due to limited options.

Conclusion

Homeowners insurance costs aren’t one-size-fits-all, and the type of home you live in can affect how your policy is priced. But with smart planning and a clear understanding of your options, you can secure affordable, comprehensive coverage that protects your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind.