Why are housing lots in CA so small?

Question

Around here the average suburban lot is about a quarter of an acre. Looking at aerial photos it is clear to see most houses do not have large yards? Why?

Answer 1

California is a BIG state. Are you sure it is wise to generalize!?

Answer 2

Because people accept (stupid) a small piece of property.  Big house on a lot too small for the house.  Builders will only try to build on a lot they can sell.  If your neighbors stopped buying small lots, and demanded larger lots the problem would be resolved.

Answer 3

Less land per house = Ability to build more houses.

If you have 20 acres to build on, you can build 20 houses with an acre each, 40 with half an acre, or 80 with a quarter acre. Since builders are in it for the money, they’re going with the ratio that allows for the most units.

Answer 4

Land is very expensive here.    If you buy a newer home the average lot is .10 acre.

This is one reason I love older homes.