If you’ve ever driven through a suburban neighborhood and spotted a really large house that seemed a little “too much,” you may have been looking at what people call a McMansion. The term itself is a play on the fast-food chain McDonald’s, suggesting that these homes are kind of like fast food: big, mass-produced, and often built quickly without the same level of care or uniqueness you might see in a traditional mansion. But what exactly makes a McMansion different from a regular mansion, and why do they spark so many debates among homeowners and buyers here in San Diego?
How McMansions Differ from Mansions
A true mansion typically means a home that is not only large but also thoughtfully designed, with custom architecture, quality materials, and a sense of timelessness. Think of an estate with a grand entrance, custom stonework, maybe a long driveway, and finishes that will still look beautiful twenty years from now.
A McMansion, on the other hand, is usually oversized but lacks architectural harmony. You might see mismatched windows, columns that do not quite fit the style, or design features borrowed from multiple styles all mashed into one home. These houses often pop up in planned developments where builders are aiming for square footage and quick turnaround rather than long-lasting design. In other words, while a mansion is a luxury home, a McMansion is more like a “cookie-cutter luxury” that feels less personal and sometimes less practical.
Are McMansions Common in San Diego?
You’ll find them sprinkled throughout parts of North County and newer suburban areas where larger homes were built during the housing boom of the early 2000s. San Diego is known for its Spanish-style homes, coastal cottages, and modern builds, but McMansions do exist here, especially inland where land was more affordable for developers. Unlike East Coast or Midwest neighborhoods where McMansions are widespread, in San Diego they’re not quite as dominant. Still, if you drive through certain communities, you’ll definitely spot them.
Why Some People Love Them
For many buyers, bigger still feels better. A McMansion can offer tons of space for a lower cost per square foot compared to a custom-built luxury home. Families love the multiple bedrooms, open layouts, and large backyards. You also get that “wow” factor when guests see the size of the house. In our area, where multi-generational living is common, the extra space is a huge selling point. For people who care more about square footage than architectural perfection, a McMansion checks all the boxes.
Why Others Criticize Them
Designers and architects often criticize McMansions for being poorly designed, with awkward layouts or details that clash. You might find a sweeping staircase in a home that otherwise feels very plain, or a façade with too many styles competing for attention. Some critics say they feel “cheaply made” despite their size, since builders may use lower-quality materials to cut costs. Others point out that because these homes don’t have a timeless design, they can feel dated pretty quickly.
Resale Value and Market Perception
So how do McMansions perform in terms of resale? In San Diego, the market often rewards location more than style. A McMansion in a desirable neighborhood with good schools and easy access to amenities will still sell, sometimes even quickly. The downside is that buyers who care about design may pass on them in favor of a smaller home with more character. Over time, a McMansion can lose some of its shine if it looks outdated compared to more modern builds. However, because of the sheer amount of space they offer, they tend to hold a decent value when marketed to families who need room to grow.
A Balanced Perspective
Here’s the thing, not everyone can or wants to buy a true custom mansion. McMansions gave many families the opportunity to live in a bigger home than they ever thought possible, and that is something worth appreciating. At the same time, if you’re thinking about buying or selling one in North County, it helps to be realistic. Buyers are more design-savvy than they were twenty years ago, so homes with flexible layouts, updated kitchens, and outdoor living spaces will always stand out.
If you are selling, a little bit of thoughtful updating goes a long way. We once worked with a client who owned a very large home that had some of those “too much” design quirks. By focusing on fresh paint, neutral finishes, and simple landscaping, the home appealed to more buyers and ended up selling at a strong price.
McMansions may never be everyone’s favorite, but they remain a real part of the San Diego housing landscape. Whether you see them as oversized and awkward or as a great opportunity for space and comfort, the key is understanding what works for your lifestyle and your long-term goals. If you are considering buying or selling one, focusing on location, thoughtful updates, and functionality will make the biggest difference in the end.
Looking for an agent to assist you in your home search—mcmansion or condo—feel free to reach out to the team at Broadpoint Properties.
