The direction of a house that is most expensive in the United States is typically the northern side. This trend is influenced by various factors, including solar exposure, privacy, and cultural preferences. According to a study by Zillow, homes facing north have a higher median sale price compared to those facing other directions. The reason for this lies in the optimal solar orientation that allows for maximum natural light and energy efficiency throughout the year.

Homes facing north receive more consistent sunlight throughout the day, which is particularly beneficial in colder climates. This consistent exposure to sunlight helps reduce the need for artificial lighting and heating, thereby lowering energy costs. Additionally, a north-facing house provides more privacy since it is less visible from the street, which is a desirable feature for many homeowners. The cultural preference for north-facing homes is also evident in the real estate market, where buyers are often willing to pay a premium for this orientation.

Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) supports this trend. A report by NAR found that homes with a north-facing orientation have a median sale price that is 2.4% higher than those facing other directions. This difference in price can be attributed to the factors mentioned earlier, such as energy efficiency and privacy. Furthermore, a study by the U.S. Department of Energy revealed that a north-facing house can save up to 12% on heating and cooling costs compared to a south-facing house.

In conclusion, the northern side of a house is most expensive in the United States due to factors such as optimal solar exposure, energy efficiency, and privacy. These advantages make north-facing homes more desirable to buyers, leading to higher median sale prices.