Our homes have gotten bigger — but are we happier?

Since 1970, the average size of a single-family home has risen from around 1,700 square feet to more than 2,400. At the same time, fewer people live in these larger homes — the average new home now has about 940 square feet per inhabitant. But does having more space per person make us happier in our homes?

Not according to Mike Coren, writing for the Washington Post’s “Climate Coach” blog.

“It’s kind of the opposite of the American dream, which is the assumption that if we had a bigger house, we’d be happier, we’d have more freedom,” Coren said. “In fact, for most people, it’s the opposite.”

“Marketplace” host Amy Scott talked to Coren about his reporting on what actually makes us happier in our homes and why it might mean living in closer quarters.

To listen to their conversation, use the audio player above