Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, offer an affordable and customizable housing solution for many people. With many floor plans and customization options available, choosing the right mobile home manufacturer is an important decision. We’ve compiled this guide to the best mobile home manufacturers based on reputation, quality, customizability, and value.
What to Look for in a Mobile Home Manufacturer
When researching mobile home manufacturers, here are some key factors to consider:
Quality of Construction
Look for sturdy construction with quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. Brands that follow industry construction standards generally make higher quality mobile homes.
Customization Options
Choose a company that allows you to customize the floor plan, fixtures, finishes, and more to suit your lifestyle. Customization creates a more home-like living space.
Reputable Brand
Established mobile home brands with years of experience and good customer satisfaction ratings are typically a safer bet for manufacturing quality.
Reasonable Pricing
Balance quality construction and customizations with overall affordability. Compare pricing between manufacturers for the best value.
Good Resale Value
Opt for durable construction and popular floor plans that will retain their resale value well over time. This makes your investment go further.
Warranties and Support
Look for strong manufacturer warranties on construction, appliances, and fixtures. Good customer service support is also valuable for repairs and maintenance needs.
Our Top 8 Mobile Home Manufacturers
Based on the above criteria, we’ve selected the top 8 mobile home manufacturers in the industry.
1. Clayton Homes
As the largest mobile and manufactured home builder in the U.S., Clayton Homes is known for innovation and quality construction. They offer a wide selection of floor plans that can be customized with numerous upgrades and options. As a Berkshire Hathaway company, they have the manufacturing capabilities to produce top-notch homes.
Key Features
- Over 50 floor plans available
- ENERGY STAR rated options
- Customization of flooring, cabinets, countertops, and fixtures
- 10-year limited warranty on structural components
Why Choose Clayton?
- Industry leader with 60+ years of experience
- Wide selection of models and customization options
- Quality construction and materials
- Excellent resale value retention
2. Cavco Homes
Headquartered in Arizona, Cavco manufacturers well-built mobile and park model homes across the U.S. Their homes are designed for energy efficiency and made with premium materials. Home buyers can work with expert designers to fully customize their new home.
Key Features
- 60+ standard floor plans
- Custom modular homes option
- Energy efficient heating and cooling
- Multiple exterior and interior styles
- Comprehensive warranty program
Why Choose Cavco?
- Custom home builder experience since 1965
- Focus on energy efficient home design
- Quality built homes made to order
- Excellent warranty and customer service reputation
3. Skyline Champion
As one of the biggest homebuilders in North America, Skyline Champion has the expertise and supply chain to efficiently manufacturer quality mobile homes. Their models offer the latest home trends and can be customized to suit each homeowner.
Key Features
- 80+ open concept floor plans
- Modern home designs and finishes
- Custom built homes option available
- ENERGY STAR certified models
- Limited 10-year warranty on structural components
Why Choose Skyline?
- Over 65 years as an industry leader
- Efficient manufacturing process
- Affordable pricing for the quality
- Strong reputation and warranties
- High-quality customization options
4. Palm Harbor Homes
Known for exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Palm Harbor Homes creates luxury custom modular and manufactured houses. Their factory process allows for precise quality control while offering extensive customization.
Key Features
- 50+ flexible floor plans
- Custom modular homes available
- Luxury designs and finishes
- ENERGY STAR certified options
- Limited 10-year structural warranty
Why Choose Palm Harbor?
- 30+ years experience as a custom homebuilder
- Delivers factory precision with on-site customization
- Quality and luxury focus for homes
- Excellent warranty and customer satisfaction
5. Fleetwood Homes
Operating since 1950, Fleetwood is one of the most established mobile home manufacturers. Their varied models and focus on affordability make Fleetwood a popular option for many buyers. Quality construction and caring customer service are brand hallmarks.
Key Features
- Over 100 floor plans under 40 feet wide
- Variety of value-focused models
- Kids Zone home designs option
- Online 3D home visualizer tool
- 12-month limited warranty
Why Choose Fleetwood?
- One of the oldest and most trusted brands
- Focus on affordable and smaller homes
- Quick move-in ready homes available
- Strong reputation for quality construction
- Great option for narrow or tiny home lots
6. Champion Homes
As a leader in mobile and modular homes for over 60 years, Champion offers both quality and affordability. Floor plans range from small cabins to expansive multi-section homes that can be installed anywhere.
Key Features
- Over 50 floor plans from 399 – 3,500 sq ft
- Modular homes and tiny home options
- Customizable exteriors, interiors, and finishes
- Energy efficient features available
- 5-year limited structural warranty
Why Choose Champion?
- Experience building over 1 million homes
- Diverse model selection and customization
- Focus on functional and affordable homes
- Builder of the CHAMP and ATHENS Park brands
- Strong construction quality and warranties
7. Karsten Homes
Family-owned Karsten builders premium modular homes in Alabama that combine quality, customization, and energy efficiency. Their homes meet and exceed HUD manufacturing standards for durability.
Key Features
- Custom modular construction process
- ENERGY STAR rated homes available
- 2×6″ exterior walls and rated roofing
- 10-year limited structural warranty
- Transparent pricing and design process
Why Choose Karsten?
- Over 60 years as a trusted regional builder
- High-quality modular construction
- Precision factory process with on-site customization
- Excellent design flexibility and customization
- Known for exceptional craftsmanship
8. Nobility Homes
Serving the Florida market since 1968, Nobility Homes offers well-built modular housing with modern floor plans. Their homes can be configured and upgraded to create the perfect living space.
Key Features
- Selection of detached floor plans
- Open concept living areas
- State-of-the-art manufacturing process
- Customizable interiors and exteriors
- Limited 10-year structural warranty
Why Choose Nobility?
- Established regional brand in Florida
- Accurate and efficient modular construction
- Contemporary, flexible floor plans
- Affordable pricing for the value and quality
- Focus on excellent craftsmanship
What Are the Best Mobile Home Models for Different Budgets?
Mobile homes range greatly in price depending on size, construction quality, customizations, and brand prestige. Here are some excellent models at different budget levels:
Under $50,000
At the lowest price point, Fleetwood, Champion, and Clayton offer quality basic models including:
- Fleetwood Highlander (640 sq ft, 2 bed/1 bath, $26,000)
- Champion Cabin Series (399 sq ft, 1 bed/1 bath $29,000)
- Clayton Homes Athens Park Model (320 sq ft, 1 bed/1 bath $48,000)
$50,000 – $100,000
Mid-range models offer more space and customization like:
- Fleetwood Pioneer (1,056 sq ft, 3 bed/2 bath – $72,000)
- Cavco Nova (1,296 sq ft 3 bed/2 bath – $84,000)
- Palm Harbor La Jolla (1,220 sq ft, 3 bed/2 bath – $92,000)
$100,000 – $150,000
For the highest quality construction and luxury finishes, brands like Skyline Champion and Clayton offer models such as:
- Skyline Spring Creek (1,924 sq ft, 4 bed/2.5 bath – $120,000)
- Clayton Stony Creek (1,680 sq ft, 4 bed/2 bath – $135,000)
- Nobility Manatee (1,412 sq ft, 3 bed/2 bath – $115,000)
Over $150,000+
At the highest end, fully customized large modular homes from Clayton, Cavco, and Palm Harbor such as:
- Clayton Customs (2,000+ sq ft – $200,000+)
- Cavco Customs (2,000+ sq ft – $250,000+)
- Palm Harbor Lexicon Customs (2,000+ sq ft – $300,000+)
Always balance size, features, and price when choosing the right mobile home for your needs and budget.
What Features Should You Look for in Mobile Homes?
Beyond budget, consider which features are most important for your lifestyle:
Number of Bedrooms/Bathrooms
Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need to comfortably accommodate your family. 2-3 beds and 1-2 baths meet most needs.
Open Floor Plans
Open kitchen, living, and dining floor plans create a more spacious and modern feel. Great for entertaining too.
Walk-In Closets and Pantries
Extra closet and pantry space add convenience and storage. Look for walk-ins and dual closets in master suites.
Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands are popular for added counter space, seating, and storage. Great for open floor plans.
Energy Efficient Appliances
Choose ENERGY STAR rated appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, etc. to save on utility costs.
Washer/Dryer Hookups
Having laundry hookups means you can use full-size cleaners versus portable models. Convenient and efficient.
Smart Home Technology
Many models now integrate smart home tech like wireless security systems, smart lighting, and more.
Luxury Finishes
Upgrade fixtures, flooring, lighting, and hardware for a luxury feel. Granite countertops and hardwood floors are popular options.
Outdoor Living Space
Decks, patios, and lanais extend living space outdoors. Perfect for entertaining or relaxation.
Prioritize must-have features, optional upgrades, and your budget to select the ideal mobile home.
What Customization Options Are Offered?
One great benefit of mobile homes is the abundant customization opportunities to make it your own. Here are some top ways to customize:
Exterior Styling
- Siding – from vinyl to cedar shake
- Roofing – shingles to metal material and color
- Shutters, trim, stone, and brick accents
- Porch and deck options
Interior Finishes
- Flooring – carpet, hardwood, tile, and laminate options
- Cabinets – material, color, and hardware
- Countertops – laminate, solid surface, granite, etc.
- Fixtures and hardware – upgrade faucets, lighting, knobs, and pulls
- Paint colors – personalized palette for walls, trim, and ceilings
Layout Modifications
- Remove or add walls and doors
- Adjust room sizes
- Relocate plumbing and electric
- Add height to ceilings
- Add bay or bow windows
Appliances and Fixtures
- Premium appliance packages
- Upgrade washer/dryer models
- Built-in shelves and storage solutions
- Ceiling fans and lighting fixtures
- Jacuzzi tubs and high end bathroom hardware
Work with an expert design specialist at manufacturers like Clayton, Palm Harbor, and Cavco to customize your ideal home.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Mobile Homes?
Pros
- Affordable housing, especially for larger square footage
- Ability to own the home and land for less
- Manufactured offsite for efficiency and quality control
- Customizable with unlimited remodels and upgrades
- Generally lower maintenance than site built homes
- Can be moved and installed elsewhere
- Good resale value retention
Cons
- Depreciates faster than site built homes, especially lower end models
- Most financing options have higher rates than traditional mortgages
- Fewer zoning restrictions on where they can be located
- Attached stigma of being lower class housing
- Difficult to make additions once installed
- Higher homeowners insurance rates
- Snow and storms can damage roofing and siding
Overall, the affordability, customization, quality construction, and pride of ownership make mobile homes an excellent housing solution for the right buyers.
How Much Does a Mobile Home Depreciate?
On average, mobile homes depreciate around 5% to 8% per year according to NADA Manufactured Housing Appraisal Guide data. This is faster than the 2% to 3% for site built homes.
Depreciation depends on factors like:
- Age: Older mobile homes depreciate up to 15% or more annually as they age. New models lose less in the first 5 years.
- Initial build quality and upgrades: Better construction and finishes retain value better over time. Luxury models depreciate less.
- Brand: More reputable national brands tend to retain value better.
- Local market demand: Trendy models in high demand markets may appreciate in value.
- Additions and remodels: Major upgrades like new roofs, decks, and renovated kitchens can reduce depreciation.
- Maintenance: Well cared for and maintained homes retain more value over time.
While mobile homes generally make an affordable purchase, buyers should be prepared for faster depreciation in most cases. Selling within the first 10 years provides the best residual value.
Do Mobile Homes Come With Warranties?
Yes, most mobile home manufacturers provide construction warranties:
- Structural warranty: Covers the main structure against defects for around 5-10 years. May specify wind resistance.
- Components warranty: Applies to plumbing, electric, appliances, roofing, heating, and other components – typically 1-2 years.
- Installation warranty: For proper setup – covers issues for the first year after installation.
Reputable brands offer the best and most comprehensive warranty protection. Be sure to register and understand coverage terms. Extended home warranties can provide additional appliance, system, and repair coverage too.
Warranties provide peace of mind and support. But be sure to inspect thoroughly at purchase – some issues may not be covered if visible at move-in.
How Much Does it Cost to Install or Move a Mobile Home?
Installing a new mobile home or relocating one to a new property costs $10,000 to $20,000 on average. Cost factors include:
- Permits and preparation: $500 – $1,500 for permits, septic and utility layouts
- Foundation and setup: $2,500 – $5,000 for foundation, blocking, leveling, anchoring and steps
- Electrical hookup: $1,000 – $2,000 to connect electric service panel and outlets
- Plumbing: $1,000 – $3,000 for water, sewer, septic hookups
- HVAC: $1,000+ for heating, AC, and ductwork installation
- Misc expenses: $500 – $1,000 for debris removal, landscaping, driveways, etc.
So a typical 1,500 sq ft double wide home would cost around $15,000 to transport and install on your private lot. Get multiple quotes for the move and setup. Licensed installers are recommended.
Many manufacturers and mobile home dealers include installation and even land acquisition assistance to simplify the process.
How to Finance a Mobile Home Purchase?
Mobile homes can be financed through:
Mobile Home Loans
- Offered by lenders like loanDepot, BBMC, and 21st Mortgage
- Down payments from 5% to 20%
- Interest rates from 5% to 9%
- Loan terms up to 20 years
- Must be installed on owned land
Personal Property Loans
- From banks and credit unions
- Interest rates from 3% to 8%
- Loan terms up to 15 years
- May require up to 50% down
- Can be on leased land
Dealer Financing
- Offered directly through mobile home dealers
- Rates from 5% to 14%
- Shorter terms up to 10 years
- Low or no down payment options
- Best for buyers with credit challenges
Compare multiple lenders for the best rates, terms, fees, and financing options. Rates run higher than standard mortgages. Good credit scores get preferential pricing.
Tips for Finding the Best Mobile Homes Deals
Follow these tips to find the most affordable pricing on new mobile homes:
- Shop dealers’ inventory of pre-owned homes for huge savings – up to 50% off new pricing
- Attend local mobile home dealers’ open house events for special promotions
- Ask for discount flyers, coupons, or seasonal sales events
- Time your purchase for end of quarter or models being discontinued
- Pay cash or secure financing ahead of time for maximum negotiation leverage
- Order home “spec” models dealers are eager to sell from inventory
- Buy popular sizes like single wides or smaller 2-3 bed floor plans for better resale
- Consider including dealer’s site installation services to bundle pricing
- Trade in your old home or RV to offset purchase costs
With some strategic timing and negotiation, you can land an affordable quality mobile home to meet your needs and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Research manufacturers’ quality, value, selection, customization, and warranties when choosing a brand
- Balance your budget with desired size, features, construction upgrades, and luxury finishes
- Customized floor plans, siding,