Cost Breakdown: Know Where Your Money Goes

How much does a tiny living cost?

Understanding your tiny living costs—before and after the build—is key to staying within budget and making smart, minimalist decisions.
Use this section to visualize your spending, plan better, and avoid common pitfalls.

Track every dollar you plan to spend across major categories. This helps you:

• Set realistic expectations

• Compare your ideal vs actual expenses

• Prioritize must-haves vs nice-to-haves

• Avoid financial surprises
  

Use the calculator below to enter your estimated costs and see an instant breakdown!

Suggested Categories for Tiny Living Cost Breakdown

A. Build Costs

• Land or Parking Spot

• Structure (tiny home, van, cabin, container, etc.)

• Interior Materials (wood, insulation, finishes)

• Labor (if not DIY)

• Electrical & Plumbing

• Off-grid systems (solar, water tanks)

• Permits & Legal Fees

• Tools & Equipmen
  
  

B. Lifestyle Costs

• Utilities (gas, electric, water, internet)

• Groceries & Household

• Insurance (home, vehicle, health)

• Transportation & Fuel

• Storage (off-site or mobile)

• Maintenance & Repairs

• Emergency Fund

• Subscriptions (phone, Netflix, etc.)

They can be organized into two core phases: Build and Lifestyle