Quick Answer
Earthship homes are primarily found in the southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado, with a significant presence in Taos, New Mexico, their birthplace.
History of Earthships
Earthships, a type of passive solar, off-grid home made from natural and recycled materials, originated in the 1970s in Taos, New Mexico, under the guidance of architect Michael Reynolds. He founded Earthship Biotecture, a company that now builds and teaches about these unique homes. As of 2023, over 30 countries have adopted the Earthship design, but the United States remains the most prominent location for these structures.
Earthship Locations and Statistics
New Mexico boasts the highest number of Earthships, with over 2,000 homes in the Taos Valley alone. The area’s arid climate and abundant sunshine make it an ideal location for Earthship homes, which can provide a reliable source of renewable energy. Earthship Biotecture estimates that in the United States, approximately 3% of the population lives in Earthships or is interested in building one.
Earthship Community and Education
Taos, New Mexico, serves as a hub for Earthship enthusiasts and a testing ground for new designs and techniques. The Earthship Biotecture headquarters and the Earthship Visitor Center offer workshops, tours, and hands-on learning experiences for those interested in building or living in these sustainable homes. As of 2023, over 10,000 people have attended Earthship workshops worldwide, demonstrating the growing interest in this off-grid lifestyle.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.