74% of Homeowners Opt to Stay and Renovate, Redefining Outdoor Living Priorities
Event summary
- 74% of U.S. homeowners surveyed by Trex Company plan to stay in their current homes and renovate rather than move.
- 55% of respondents prefer renovating over relocating, while only 8% plan to move without improving their home first.
- 54% of homeowners say their outdoor space is better for decompressing than any indoor room.
- 48% of homeowners cite outdoor living space upgrades as a key factor in staying put.
- Survey conducted by Atomik Research with 2,000 U.S. homeowners between July 29 and August 3, 2026.
The big picture
The survey results indicate a strategic shift in homeowner priorities, with outdoor living spaces becoming central to home enjoyment and renovation decisions. This trend aligns with broader industry movements toward sustainable, high-quality outdoor living products, positioning companies like Trex to capitalize on the growing emphasis on home improvement over relocation. The data suggests a lasting behavioral change, potentially reshaping the home improvement and real estate sectors for years to come.
What we're watching
- Outdoor Living Demand
- How sustained demand for outdoor living upgrades will impact Trex's product sales and market positioning.
- Renovation Trends
- Whether the shift toward home improvement over relocation will accelerate or stabilize in the coming years.
- Consumer Sentiment
- The pace at which emotional attachment to homes influences long-term real estate market dynamics.