House hunting gives you the chance to explore different home styles and find what works best for your family. Two options you might see are bi-level and split-level houses. Although their names are similar and often mixed up, each has its own layout and feel. Knowing what sets them apart can help you choose the right one.
This guide explains what makes bi-level and split-level homes different. We’ll look at their layouts, pros and cons, costs, and compare them side by side. By the end, you’ll know more about these two styles and be ready to make a confident choice when house hunting.
What is a bi-level house?
You can usually tell a bi-level from a split-level as soon as you walk in. A bi-level house, or raised ranch, is a one-story home built on a raised foundation, giving it two separate living levels. (BI-LEVEL Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster, n.d.) When you enter, you step onto a small landing with stairs going up and down.
The upper level typically contains the main living areas, such as the kitchen, dining room, living room, and bedrooms. The lower level often houses a finished basement, a Family room, an additional bedroom, and a utility space. This design provides a clear separation between the main living quarters and the more casual, recreational areas.
Pros of a bi-level house
- Affordability: Bi-level homes are often a more budget-friendly option for families.
- Privacy: The separation of floors can provide more privacy, especially if the lower level is used as a guest suite or a teen’s bedroom.
- Finished Basements: Many bi-levels come with fully or partially finished basements, offering extra living space right from the start.
- Spacious Feel: Despite being built on a smaller footprint, the layout can feel quite spacious.
Cons of a bi-level house
- Constant Stairs: The entryway design means you’ll always be going up or down stairs to get to any part of the house.
- Outgrowing the Space: Larger families might find they quickly outgrow the available space.
- Resale Challenges: In some markets, bi-level homes can be more difficult to sell compared to other styles. (Why Are Split-Level Homes Harder to Sell, 2025)
What is a split-level house?
A split-level Home features multiple levels staggered and connected by short flights of stairs. (Split-level home, 2025) From the outside, these homes have a distinctive, multi-tiered appearance. When you enter a typical split-level house, you walk into a main level that often contains the living room, dining room, and kitchen.
From the main level, a short staircase goes up to the bedrooms, and another goes down to a more informal family room or den. Sometimes there’s even a sub-basement below the den for storage or utilities. This layout creates separate areas for things like entertaining, relaxing, and spending time with family.
Types of split-level houses
There are a few variations of the split-level design:
- Side-Split: This is the most common type, where the levels are visible from the front. (Split-level home, 2023) The garage and Family room are on one side, while the main living areas and bedrooms are on the other, separated by short flights of stairs.
- Back-Split: From the front, this Home might look like a regular bungalow. The staggered levels are only visible from the side or back of the house.
- Standard Split: The front door opens to an entryway with a split staircase leading to the different levels, making it a good layout for multi-family living.
- Stacked Split: This design features at least three levels, often more. It’s another layout that works well for multiple families living under one roof. (The Good and the Bad of Split-Level Homes, 2025)
Pros of a split-level house
- Zoned Living: The separate levels are great for creating distinct living zones, offering privacy and reducing noise travel between areas.
- Land Use: This style is ideal for building on sloped or uneven lots.
- Visual Appeal: The unique, retro style of split-level homes is popular and has a certain visual appeal.
- Multi-Family Potential: The layout can be well-suited for multiple residents or generations living in the same Home.
Cons of a split-level house
- Stairs Everywhere: Like bi-levels, navigating a split-level Home means dealing with many short sets of stairs.
- Limited Open-Floor Plan: The staggered design rarely allows for a true open-concept floor plan.
- Attached Garages: Garages in split-level homes are almost always attached.
- Exterior Stairs: You may have to climb a short set of stairs to get to the front door.
Cost of bi-level vs. split-level homes
Both bi-level and split-level houses usually cost less than traditional single-family homes, partly because they’re often built on smaller lots. Bi-level homes tend to be the more affordable option. (Why Bi-Level Homes Are a Hidden Gem in Today’s Housing Market, 2025) The average price for these homes ranges from $115,000 to $200,000, but prices can change a lot depending on the home’s size, condition, and location. (Split-Level Home Construction Cost, 2024)
Key differences at a glance
While these two Home styles share similarities, their differences are important for potential buyers to understand. Here’s a quick comparison:
Bi-Level House
Split-Level House
Two levels, connected by a single staircase from the entryway. Multiple staggered levels, connected by short staircases.
Often has a fully finished basement. Basements are usually only partially above ground, with limited light.
Can have an attached or detached garage. Typically has an attached garage.
Usually built on larger, flat lots. Space-efficient and often built on smaller or sloped lots.
Tends to have a taller, more traditional roofline. Characterized by a low-pitched or flat roof.
Making the right choice for you
The best way to choose between a bi-level and a split-level home is to visit both. Touring each style helps you get a sense of the layout and imagine how your daily life would work there. Think about whether it offers the space and flow your family needs.
Feel free to ask a real estate agent for advice. They can share helpful information about how each home style sells in your area, which matters if you don’t plan to stay there forever. A good agent can help you look at the pros and cons and find a home that fits your lifestyle and long-term goals.
