Home Crush reference
A current U.S. snapshot of the spending, home features, and projects shaping the way people use the spaces just outside their doors.
Last updated August 19, 2026
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At a glance
These figures bring together current national spending projections and Census Bureau housing data. Each statistic links directly to its published source, with dates included so the context is easy to check and cite.
$519B
Harvard's latest remodeling outlook projects $519 billion in annual spending on home improvements and repairs through the middle of 2027.
Source: Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity, July 23, 20260.5%
The outlook expects renovation and repair spending growth to slow to 0.5% year over year in the second quarter of 2027.
Source: Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity, July 23, 20265%
Only 5% of the new homes covered by the Census Bureau's 2023 housing characteristics did not include a patio, porch, or deck.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Housing Data Show Median Price Per Square Foot by Region, June 28, 202498%
The Census Bureau reported air conditioning in 98% of new homes in the West, where shaded, comfortable exterior areas help extend how a home is used through warmer months.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Housing Data Show Median Price Per Square Foot by Region, June 28, 202427%
About 27% of owners of older homes made exterior improvements. Common projects included adding or replacing a porch, deck, patio, or terrace.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Cost of Improving and Maintaining Older Homes Higher for New Owners, October 12, 2023What the numbers suggest
For homeowners, an outdoor room can be a simple way to make more of the place they already have, whether that means a better dining area, a shaded place to gather, or comfort that carries into the evening. For designers, writers, and retailers, the figures point to the same thing: exterior spaces remain closely connected to the choices people make inside the home.
Sources & citation
Every figure above is drawn from a named public source. Follow the source link beside any statistic for the original publication and its full context.
Home Crush. “Outdoor Living & Home Improvement Statistics.” Updated August 19, 2026. https://home-crush.com/outdoor-living-statistics
Outdoor living at Home Crush