Definition of ranch house

The word "ranch house" originated in the late 1940s and early 1950s in the United States, particularly in California. It is believed to have been derived from the Spanish word "rancho," which means a large country estate or farming property. In California, the term "rancho" was commonly used to describe large agricultural properties, and as subdivisions began to develop in rural areas, the idea of ranch-style housing emerged. These houses were designed with a spacious layout, often featuring open floor plans, large windows, and simplicity in design. They were usually located on smaller parcels of land, as opposed to the larger estates known as ranches. The popularity of ranch-style housing grew rapidly in the 1950s and 1960s, as more people moved to suburban and rural areas. Its simplicity, affordability, and functionality made it a popular choice for families looking to build or purchase their own homes. Today, the term "ranch house" is commonly used to describe a single-story or split-level style of housing, typically featuring a low-pitched roofline and attached garage.