When we think of Hollywood’s biggest names, sprawling mansions and extravagant estates often come to mind. However, not all A-listers are drawn to excessive square footage. Some opt for homes that, while still luxurious, are surprisingly modest in size compared to their net worth. These stars prove that bigger isn’t always better when it comes to real estate.
The Reality of Celebrity Real Estate
The average size of a celebrity’s home is around 10,000 square feet—comparable to the private quarters in the White House. Some estates stretch even larger, with the most extravagant reaching 38,000 square feet. However, there’s a select group of stars who have decided to live in homes much closer in size to what the average American family owns.
While these homes might be considered “small” by celebrity standards, they still come with a hefty price tag. The average value of a top-tier celebrity home is around $14 million, and some properties cost well over that amount per square foot.
Here’s a closer look at the stars who favor compact, stylish residences.
1. Jimmy Kimmel – 1,962 Sq. Ft.
Instagram | jimmykimmel | Jimmy Kimmel’s 1,962 sq ft LA house, though small, boasts luxurious interiors.
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel owns one of the smallest celebrity homes on this list. His 1,962-square-foot house in Los Angeles, purchased for $1.1 million, features three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Located near the iconic Chateau Marmont, Kimmel’s home might be modest in size, but his taste in interior design leans toward the luxurious.
With mid-century furniture, bold art pieces, and elegant brass lighting fixtures, his space reflects a refined aesthetic despite its relatively smaller size.
2. Brad Pitt – 2,000 Sq. Ft.
Known for his love of architecture and design, Brad Pitt has owned several impressive homes over the years. One of his more understated choices is a 2,000-square-foot home in Los Angeles, designed in 1960 by architect Neil M. Johnson.
This mid-century modern house, known as the Steel House, showcases classic design elements such as terrazzo floors, beamed ceilings, and a distinct rectangular roofline. Pitt’s passion for architecture is evident in the thoughtful details of this space, proving that a home doesn’t need to be massive to be stylish.
3. Dave Matthews – 2,180 Sq. Ft.
Singer-songwriter Dave Matthews, best known for his work with the Dave Matthews Band, prefers a more down-to-earth approach to real estate. His 2,180-square-foot home in Seattle, purchased in 2001 for $360,000, has grown significantly in value but remains modest compared to his estimated $300 million net worth.
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom house in the Wallingford neighborhood is a testament to Matthews’ laid-back lifestyle, proving that not all music stars feel the need to live in excess.
4. Robert De Niro – 2,222 Sq. Ft.
Robert De Niro has long called New York home, and his primary residence is a 2,222-square-foot house in Gardiner, New York. Sitting on a vast 78-acre property, the estate originally featured an 18th-century farmhouse before De Niro transformed it into a more modern dwelling.
While the main house itself is relatively small, the property includes two guest houses, a tennis court, and a converted barn that now serves as a recreation center complete with a gym, game room, and even a small film studio.
5. Clint Eastwood – 2,781 Sq. Ft.
Clint Eastwood has always gone against the Hollywood norm, and his home choice reflects that. Instead of a flashy mansion in Los Angeles, Eastwood resides in a historic farmhouse in Carmel, California.
The 2,781-square-foot property dates back to the 1850s and features six guest rooms. Originally a simple farmhouse, the home underwent renovations over the years while still maintaining its rustic charm. With sweeping views of the California coast, this residence proves that luxury isn’t always about size.
6. Dhani Harrison – 2,826 Sq. Ft.
Dhani Harrison, musician and son of Beatles legend George Harrison, owns a 2,826-square-foot home in Venice, California. Priced at $3.99 million, this waterfront property is relatively modest considering his estimated $275 million net worth.
The house blends modern architecture with a creative, artistic touch, reflecting Harrison’s personality and passion for music. His choice to live in a smaller, stylish home rather than an oversized mansion highlights his preference for function and design over sheer size.
7. Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) – 3,000 Sq. Ft.
YouTube star MrBeast, one of the highest-earning content creators, still resides in his childhood neighborhood in Greenville, North Carolina. His home, a two-story, 3,000-square-foot residence, includes four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
What makes Donaldson’s real estate choices unique is his decision to buy multiple homes for his friends and team members, turning a cul-de-sac into a private community. His home may not be as extravagant as some of his YouTube challenges, but it reflects his practical and generous nature.
8. Taylor Swift – 3,240 Sq. Ft.
Instagram | taylorswift | Taylor Swift’s Nashville penthouse, bought at 20 for $1.9 million, remains a sentimental favorite among her properties.
Taylor Swift has an extensive real estate portfolio, but one of her smaller properties stands out. Purchased when she was just 20 years old, her 3,240-square-foot Nashville penthouse cost $1.9 million and remains one of her most sentimental properties.
Located in the Adelicia complex, this three-bedroom duplex features high ceilings and a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-inspired interior. While Swift owns several larger properties, this one remains a charming retreat in her collection.
9. Markiplier – 3,279 Sq. Ft.
Markiplier, a YouTube powerhouse with millions of followers, made a notable real estate move by purchasing a 3,279-square-foot Los Angeles home previously owned by Childish Gambino.
The house features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains. While relatively small compared to typical celebrity mansions, its unique architectural design and prime location make it a standout choice.
10. Jack Nicholson – 3,303 Sq. Ft.
Legendary actor Jack Nicholson has owned several properties, but his Beverly Hills home remains one of his more modest choices. Purchased for $5 million in 2005, the 3,303-square-foot residence includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
While it’s not the largest home on this list, Nicholson’s real estate portfolio includes other properties, such as a 70-acre Malibu compound and a Hollywood Hills hideaway, showcasing his diverse taste in homes.
Why Some Celebrities Prefer Smaller Homes
There’s a growing trend among some stars to prioritize design, location, and personal connection over sheer size. For many, a smaller home means less maintenance, more privacy, and a chance to focus on quality over quantity.
Whether it’s a love for mid-century architecture, a connection to a childhood neighborhood, or simply a preference for cozy living, these celebrities prove that a home doesn’t have to be massive to be impressive.
