Forget about bricks. Civilizations have been living in tents for thousands of years and they were just fine. Why shouldn’t we try it out, even if it’s temporary? Folks have been opting for tents and even building communities on beach fronts.
Okay, granted, it can be pretty risky, and sometimes you can be kicked right off. It’s cheap but it might not be the best option for long term living.
Forget Land, Try Water
When living tiny, we tend to think this only revolves around road-life or abandoned little plots of land in the middle of nowhere. Takin to the sea or any other body of water is just as freeing. The cost can be as low as $12,000.
Living on the water is the ultimate way to see the world. You can set sail whenever you like. Sure it requires a little more effort and know-how than driving, but it's totally possible. Try life on a canal boat and even liv in big cities. It's far cheaper than getting a mortgage or paying rent in an expensive city center.
Container Culture
For about a thousand dollars you turn some old shipping containers into a full-fledged home In fact, the whole housing system has become quite a trendy alternative and some rather artistic designs have begun to pop up.
These hunks of corrugated steel have even begun housing communities of artists. Check out Container City, a peaceful cottage community in London.
The Straw Bale Home
Taking the countryside life a step further, the straw bale home is also becoming an incredibly trendy option. Hay actually doubles as a great insulator so this will do well in colder environments.
You might want to reinforce it with slightly sturdier materials lest a wolf comes to huff and puff and blow your house down.
The Hobbit House
A method of housing that has been around for centuries has recently made a comeback. The house in a hill or earth berm is essentially a house underground that is built into a natural hill. While the front entrance is exposed the rest of the structure is basically housed by the ground itself.
The earth berm is cozy and safe and comfortably off the grid. The only downside is, its quite complex to construct. Perfect for hobbits!