The direction of a house that receives the most sunlight in the United States is typically the south or east. This is due to the latitude of the country and the path of the sun throughout the day. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun travels from east to west, reaching its highest point in the sky around noon. Therefore, houses with southern or eastern exposures are more likely to receive direct sunlight for longer periods during the day.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, southern-facing windows are the most effective for capturing solar energy. This is because the sun is at its highest point in the sky during the winter months, which is when solar energy is most needed to heat the home. In fact, a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that a house with southern-facing windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30% compared to a house with no windows or windows facing other directions.

Eastern exposure is also beneficial, as the sun rises in the east and provides early morning sunlight. This can be particularly advantageous for natural lighting and warming the home in the morning. However, the intensity of sunlight in the east decreases as the day progresses, so it may not provide as much heat as a southern exposure.

It's important to note that the optimal orientation of a house can vary depending on the specific location within the United States. For example, in areas with a higher latitude, such as Alaska or Maine, southern exposure is even more crucial for maximizing solar gain. Conversely, in areas with a lower latitude, such as Florida or Hawaii, eastern exposure may be more beneficial due to the sun's higher angle in the sky.

In conclusion, for optimal sunlight exposure in the United States, southern and eastern orientations are the most advantageous. This is due to the sun's path and the need for solar gain throughout the year, particularly during the winter months. By strategically placing windows and doors in these directions, homeowners can significantly reduce energy costs and enhance the comfort and value of their homes.