Porches Gain Popularity With Homeowners

A place for sitting, sipping and spending time together, a home’s porch offers additional living space and provides a spot for homeowners to enjoy time outdoors. The Survey of Construction, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, found that 65 percent of single-family homes built in 2020 had a front porch.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported 2020 was the third time that the number of homes built with a porch broke the 65 percent barrier. The East South Central region of the U.S. has the highest concentration of homes with porches; in 2020, 89 percent of new homes built included a porch.

By the Numbers

Back and side porches are typically larger compared to front porches.

Back and side porches on average measure: 143 square feet.

Front porches porches on average measure: 99 square feet.

In Your Operation

• Merchandise outdoor furniture to show customers ideas for setting up their porch with seating or dining areas. Include furniture extras like outdoor throw pillows and cushions in your display.
• When decorating for a holiday, homeowners frequently utilize their front porch. Use an endcap to highlight holiday decor for different seasons that would be well-suited for decorating a porch.
• Don’t forget the accessories. Porches are an extension of the home, so suggest different products that can round out the space, such as lighting fixtures, candles and rugs.

Sources: National Association of Home Builders Eye on Housing, Share of New Homes with Porches Back Over 65 Percent; National Association of Home Builders, Remodeling Market Index; Home Innovation Research Labs, Builder Practices Survey

---

Exciting Exteriors
Discover more trends for outdoor dining, outdoor living spaces and lawn and garden here.