Actors Who Astonishingly Still Live in Completely Average Houses

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Many Hollywood stars live in huge, expensive mansions, but surprisingly, quite a few successful actors prefer a simpler, more down-to-earth life. They often value privacy, a sense of community, and a normal lifestyle over the usual luxuries that come with being famous. You can find them living in modest apartments or regular suburban homes, showing they want to stay grounded despite their worldwide recognition. Here’s a list of male actors who have chosen to live in surprisingly average homes compared to their colleagues.

Elijah Wood

Elijah Wood, best known for playing Frodo in ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ intentionally chose a simple life in Austin, Texas, despite the huge success of the films. He bought a Victorian home there for a reasonable price, much lower than what he’d pay in California. His house is in a quiet neighborhood without the elaborate gates and security you’d expect for a celebrity. Wood has often talked about how much he enjoys the local culture and being able to live a normal life, away from the intense attention of Hollywood. This reflects his desire to keep both his career and personal life private.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy, the acclaimed actor from shows like ‘Peaky Blinders’ and the movie ‘Oppenheimer’, lives a low-key life with his family in Dublin, Ireland. He returned to Ireland after living in London so his children could grow up embracing their Irish heritage. Despite his global fame, he lives in a simple Victorian house and is often seen by neighbors running errands, like grocery shopping, without any assistants. Murphy consistently chooses privacy and the everyday comfort of his Dublin neighborhood over the excitement of a life in Los Angeles.

Steve Buscemi

Steve Buscemi is a hardworking actor known for his roles in shows like ‘Boardwalk Empire’ and ‘Fargo’. He’s lived in the Park Slope area of Brooklyn for many years, in a modest brownstone that blends in with the neighborhood. A familiar face locally, he even went back to his old job as a firefighter to help after the 9/11 attacks. Unlike many celebrities, his home is simple and reflects his down-to-earth personality and working-class background. He remains a regular in the neighborhood, often spotted out and about like any other resident.

Mark Ruffalo

You know, it’s funny – Mark Ruffalo is this huge star, basically a pillar of the Marvel universe with ‘The Avengers,’ but he doesn’t actually live like a typical Hollywood actor. He and his family have a farm up in the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York, and they’re really focused on a simple, sustainable life. It’s not about mansions or anything flashy; it’s all about family and doing what he can for the environment. He’s talked a lot about wanting to raise his kids away from the craziness of the industry, and honestly, it totally makes sense. It just feels really authentic, especially given how passionate he is about protecting our planet and fighting for social justice.

John Goodman

John Goodman is a well-known actor with a career spanning popular shows like ‘Roseanne’ and films such as ‘The Big Lebowski’. Unlike many celebrities, he’s chosen to live in New Orleans, Louisiana, for many years. He lives in a beautiful, but typical, Garden District home, fitting in with the neighborhood’s other lovely houses. He moved there seeking a quieter life, away from the constant attention of the paparazzi, and has become a beloved member of the local community. This choice reflects his priorities: a focus on family and a connection to a city with a strong and unique culture.

Peter Dinklage

Peter Dinklage, best known for playing Tyrion Lannister in ‘Game of Thrones’, lives a surprisingly low-key life. Instead of a glamorous city home, he and his family live in a simple country house in the Hudson Valley, New York. He prioritizes privacy and enjoys the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings. Dinklage has said he much prefers this peaceful lifestyle to the hustle and bustle of cities like New York or Los Angeles, and the house helps him maintain a normal life out of the public eye.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is a highly respected actor, famous for his roles in shows like ‘Westworld’ and the movie ‘The Batman’. He’s lived in a regular Brooklyn neighborhood for years and is seen as just one of the locals, not a celebrity. His home is a typical city dwelling, a far cry from the grand estates you might expect from a Hollywood star. Wright actively participates in community events and appreciates the genuine feel of his neighborhood. Staying in Brooklyn helps him stay connected to the city’s culture, which often inspires his work.

Michael Cera

Michael Cera became well-known through roles in ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Superbad,’ but he’s always kept his personal life private. Unlike many other celebrities, he lives in a normal apartment in New York City and often uses public transportation, preferring to blend in with everyday people. This down-to-earth lifestyle reflects his relaxed attitude towards fame, which he approaches with humor and distance. By avoiding a lavish lifestyle, Cera has been able to concentrate on independent films and his own interests.

Jesse Eisenberg

Jesse Eisenberg is known for playing thoughtful characters, as seen in films like ‘The Social Network’. He’s lived in simple places throughout his life, including Indiana and a typical apartment in New York City. Unlike many famous actors, he doesn’t surround himself with luxury. Eisenberg is a down-to-earth person who values spaces that allow him to concentrate on his work – writing and acting – and stay grounded in everyday life. His housing choices reflect his practical personality and desire for authentic experiences.

Aaron Paul

Aaron Paul, best known for his role in ‘Breaking Bad’, lives primarily in Los Angeles but also has a home in Boise, Idaho. This Idaho house reflects the state’s down-to-earth culture and features a cozy, rustic design, though it’s a typical family home for the area. Paul often talks about how much he loves Idaho and how returning there helps him escape the pressures of Hollywood. His Boise home is a peaceful retreat where he stays connected to his family and his roots.

Bryan Cranston

Bryan Cranston, known for his roles in ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Your Honor’, lives in an environmentally friendly beach house in Ventura County, California. He chose to prioritize sustainability and efficiency in the home’s design over having a large or lavish space. The house has earned a ‘platinum LEED’ certification, meaning it meets high environmental standards, and serves as a comfortable, modern home for Cranston and his wife. He actively participated in the planning process, focusing on eco-friendly living rather than traditional luxury, demonstrating his commitment to both environmental responsibility and a simple lifestyle.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen is a hugely successful comedian and producer, known for movies like ‘Pineapple Express’. Surprisingly, despite being wealthy, his Los Angeles home is fairly simple and filled with pottery he’s made himself. It feels more like a relaxed, creative space than a luxurious display of wealth. He often shares pictures of his home life online, focusing on his hobbies and pets rather than expensive possessions. This down-to-earth lifestyle matches his public image as a relatable, successful person.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd, famous for roles in movies like ‘Ant-Man’ and ‘Clueless’, chooses to live a surprisingly normal life in the small town of Rhinebeck, New York. He values a stable, low-key environment for his family and wants his children to grow up grounded. In fact, he’s so committed to the community that he co-owns a local candy shop with actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan, helping to support the town. He lives in a typical family home, preferring a quiet life to the glamour of Hollywood.

Adam Driver

Adam Driver, known for his roles in ‘Girls’, ‘Star Wars’, and ‘Marriage Story’, lives a surprisingly low-key life in a standard Brooklyn apartment. Despite his success, he avoids the typical celebrity lifestyle and values his privacy, finding that a normal residential building helps him blend in. Driver often credits his time in the Marine Corps with giving him a grounded perspective, and his simple lifestyle reflects his dedication and discipline as an actor.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke is a well-known actor in American films, famous for movies like the ‘Before’ trilogy and ‘Training Day’. He’s lived for years in a townhouse in Brooklyn’s Boerum Hill, where he’s often seen participating in local life and supporting neighborhood businesses. Hawke intentionally chose this community-focused environment to raise his family, prioritizing culture and connection over the privacy of a secluded estate. His home embodies his artistic spirit and his desire for a genuine city lifestyle.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield, the actor known for films like ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ and ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’, prefers a simple lifestyle. He’s often seen riding the subway and walking around cities like London and New York without security or fancy cars. While his homes are comfortable, they’re typically described as fairly average for those expensive cities. Garfield has said he wants to stay connected to everyday life and learn from the experiences of regular people, and his down-to-earth housing choices reflect that.

Mads Mikkelsen

Mads Mikkelsen is a well-known actor with roles in popular films and TV shows like ‘Hannibal’ and ‘Casino Royale’. Even though he’s a global star, he chooses to live primarily in a simple, family home in Copenhagen, Denmark. This reflects a common Danish cultural value – ‘janteloven’ – which emphasizes humility and discourages showing off wealth. Mikkelsen is known for living a normal life in Denmark, often biking around and frequenting local cafes. His home provides a sense of normalcy and a break from the demands of his international film career.

Harrison Ford

Despite being one of the most successful actors in history, Harrison Ford prefers a quiet life on his ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The house itself isn’t flashy; it’s a practical and comfortable building designed for everyday living. Ford often handles repairs and upkeep himself and is involved in the local community. His ranch provides the space to enjoy his hobbies – flying and being outdoors – and offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Los Angeles. This reflects his long-standing desire for privacy and a self-sufficient way of life.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Daniel Day-Lewis, famous for completely losing himself in roles like the one in ‘There Will Be Blood’, prefers a very private life when he’s not filming. He lives in a traditional farmhouse in a peaceful village in County Wicklow, Ireland, away from the usual celebrity hotspots. He enjoys simple crafts like woodworking and making shoes. This quiet, secluded home helps him relax and recharge after the intense work of making movies.

Dave Grohl

Dave Grohl is known as a musician, but he’s also appeared in documentaries and made a few acting appearances. He lives in a large, typical suburban house in Encino, Los Angeles. Unlike many celebrities, he doesn’t live in a fancy or historic home. Grohl often says he sees himself as a normal dad and husband first, and a famous musician second. His house is designed to be a comfortable family space where he can relax, have barbecues, and play music like anyone else.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling, famous for movies like ‘La La Land’ and ‘Barbie’, lives a surprisingly private life with his partner, Eva Mendes. They’ve intentionally chosen a simple, down-to-earth lifestyle and a modest home in Los Angeles, prioritizing raising their daughters away from the spotlight. Unlike many A-list celebrities, their home isn’t flashy or extravagant, and this commitment to a quiet life is a big reason why Gosling remains so grounded despite his fame.

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman, best known as Wolverine from the ‘X-Men’ movies, lived in a simple apartment in Manhattan’s West Village for many years. Despite living in an expensive neighborhood, his home was relatively modest compared to those of other famous actors. Jackman is often spotted walking his dog and happily chatting with fans, known for being approachable and genuine. Though he’s recently upgraded to a larger place, he deliberately chose a more low-key residence for most of his successful career, wanting to stay connected to everyday city life. This choice reinforces his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most grounded and humble stars.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves, famous for movies like ‘The Matrix’ and ‘John Wick’, is known for living a surprisingly simple life. For years, he didn’t own a home, choosing to stay in hotels or smaller apartments. When he eventually bought a house in the Hollywood Hills, it was a modest and modern design, unlike the extravagant mansions around it. He’s often seen riding public transportation and quietly donates a lot of money to charity. This shows he isn’t interested in the typical flashy lifestyle often associated with being a celebrity.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been a familiar face since his early days on shows like ‘3rd Rock from the Sun’ and in films like ‘Inception’. He lives in a comfortably-sized, stylish mid-century home in the Silver Lake area of Los Angeles. Unlike many celebrities, he values his creative work and his HitRecord project more than showing off wealth. His home is a reflection of his artistic and intellectual side, offering a relaxing space rather than a display of status. This choice of home and neighborhood fits with his reputation as a thoughtful and independent actor.

Jon Hamm

I’ve always admired Jon Hamm, not just for his talent, but for how he handled becoming a huge star with ‘Mad Men’. It’s fascinating – even at the peak of the show’s success, he kept living in the same, fairly normal penthouse he’d had for years. It wasn’t some extravagant mansion, just a comfortable place that fit a successful professional in L.A. He’s talked a lot about staying grounded, and it really shows. His choice of home has always felt… real, a clear sign he wasn’t letting fame change who he was or how he lived. It’s a refreshingly unpretentious approach in a world of excess.

David Spade

David Spade, a well-known comedian from ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ‘Tommy Boy’, lives a surprisingly simple life. He owns a small, unpretentious bungalow in Beverly Hills, a stark contrast to the lavish homes around it. Spade often jokes about his down-to-earth lifestyle, and he’s consistently favored comfort and personal taste over extravagance. This understated approach perfectly matches his self-deprecating humor and long career in comedy.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover, who also performs as Childish Gambino, is a talented actor and musician, and the creator of the show ‘Atlanta’. He prefers simple, functional living spaces designed for creativity over lavish luxury. While he generally keeps his homes private, colleagues describe them as practical and unshowy. Glover intentionally avoids the excesses often associated with fame, prioritizing his work as an artist over accumulating expensive possessions or a large home.

Tobey Maguire

Tobey Maguire, famous for playing Spider-Man, generally prefers modestly sized, architecturally interesting homes in Santa Monica. Though he’s owned multiple properties, he avoids overly large estates. Since stepping away from the spotlight as a superhero, Maguire has focused on producing and his family, and his home choices reflect his desire for a refined yet down-to-earth lifestyle close to the beach. This approach has helped him easily transition to a more private life and career focus.

Jack Black

Jack Black, famous for movies like ‘School of Rock’ and his band Tenacious D, lives a surprisingly down-to-earth life with his family in Los Angeles. His home is cozy and comfortable – a real family space, not a flashy Hollywood mansion. He’s often seen doing everyday dad things around the neighborhood and is known for being friendly with his neighbors. Inside, his house is filled with instruments and keepsakes that show off his true interests, not a desire to show off wealth. This genuine lifestyle is a big part of why people connect with him as a performer – he comes across as real and sincere.

Bill Murray

Bill Murray, the star of films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Lost in Translation’, is famous for living life on his own terms. Unlike most celebrities, he doesn’t have an agent or publicist and prefers a low-key lifestyle in Charleston, South Carolina. He lives in a regular home in a historic neighborhood and is known as a friendly, down-to-earth member of the community. You can often find him at local baseball games and events, proving he avoids the typical trappings of fame. Choosing Charleston reflects his desire to stay true to himself and distance himself from the Hollywood scene.

What’s your opinion on actors who opt for simpler homes, unlike many other celebrities?

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2026-02-23 22:18