#United States #Seattle #Zillow #Home Search #Lifestyle Trends

The Shift in Home Search Behavior

In 2025, the Zillow Zeitgeist provides a profound look into the evolving desires of homebuyers across the United States, highlighting an increasing preference for lifestyle compatibility over mere luxury. With millions of searches analyzed, it's clear that the emphasis has transitioned from opulent features to the comfort and functionality that homes can offer. This report stands as the annual reflection of how Americans sought their ideal residences this year.

Emphasizing Lifestyle over Layout

The overarching theme for home searches in 2025 indicates that buyers are prioritizing features that foster livability rather than just the size of a property. This year, there was a notable surge in searches for homes with outdoor features and experiential amenities. Terms like "patio," "pool," and "view" rose dramatically, showing that potential buyers are seeking spaces that enhance their day-to-day life instead of merely expanding living space.

Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's home trends expert, articulates this paradigm shift well: "2025 was the year people stopped searching for more home and started searching for more meaning at home." This sentiment reflects a universal longing for spaces that can accommodate families, provide tranquility, and offer small comforts that improve life quality.

Key Trends of 2025

A closer look at the national trends emerging from the aggregated searches reveals specific behaviors and preferences:

1. Rising Interest in Water Proximity: Searches for properties located near lakes, rivers, and other waterfronts have surged in 2025. Even states that traditionally showed little interest in waterfront living, such as Mississippi and Montana, have reported notable spikes in searches for such homes. This trend indicates an increasing desire for homes that offer serene nature views and recreational opportunities.

2. Demand for Multi-Use Spaces: The searches for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), guesthouses, and in-law suites have also seen significant increases. This reflects a growing inclination towards multigenerational living arrangements and properties that can serve dual purposes, whether for family or potential rental income.

3. Comfort Over Luxury: This year has also witnessed a clear cooling in searches tied to high-end living. While searches for terms like "mansion" or "luxury" have decreased, there has been a marked uptick in inquiries for features that convey comfort—fireplaces, gardens, and fenced yards have all become highly sought after.

4. Privacy and Security Preferences: An increase in searches for properties with gated features or fenced backyards showcases a rising priority for homebuyers regarding privacy and security. This desire for calm and control in residential spaces aptly reflects societal preferences shifting toward more tranquil living environments.

Comparison with Previous Years

When comparing 2025 with trends from 2024, significant changes emerged:

• - Home types such as "ranch" and "duplex" were less popular this year compared to terms signaling modern and flexible living, such as "pool" and "waterfront."
• - Instead of focusing on utility (like garages or open land), buyers are increasingly drawn to lifestyle factors involving patios, views, and waterfront access.
• - As flexibility becomes paramount, searches for properties with ADUs and guest houses increased, whereas interest in traditional duplex arrangements has declined slightly.

State-Specific Trends

Regional preferences also emerged, highlighting unique terms that characterize individual states’ home-search behaviors:

• - In Alaska, searches for "hangars" emphasize a unique lifestyle centered around aviation.
• - New Mexico continues to appreciate traditional architecture, shown through sustained interest in "Adobe" homes.
• - In New York and New Jersey, homes accommodating multigenerational families remain popular.
• - Arizona follows with interest in properties featuring RV gates and casitas, catering to a distinctly Southwestern lifestyle.

Conclusion

The 2025 Zillow Zeitgeist captures vital trends reflecting Americans’ evolving approach to home searches, emphasizing lifestyle over luxury. As potential homeowners look for more versatile and comforting spaces that resonate with personal meanings rather than mere amenities, this year's trends will likely shape the future of real estate, focusing on enhancing quality of life through thoughtfully designed homes. Whether through outdoor spaces, multi-use arrangements, or comforting features, 2025 has indeed marked a pivotal moment in the American housing landscape.