Outdoor living investment has surged 35–45% since 2020 as remote work expands how homeowners use their outdoor spaces — but state-level patterns reveal very different driver profiles.
Spending on outdoor living improvements — decks, patios, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, and landscaping — surged during and after the pandemic as homeowners invested in usable outdoor space. National spending on outdoor living improvements grew an estimated 38% from 2020 to 2024 and remains elevated in 2026 as homeowners who made structural lifestyle changes continue to invest in outdoor infrastructure.
The average outdoor living project budget has also increased: the typical deck or patio project was $12,000–$18,000 in 2019; in 2026, the national average has climbed to $18,000–$28,000 — driven by both inflation and an upgrade in scope as homeowners add covered structures, outdoor kitchens, and permanent lighting.
| Region | Most Popular Projects | Avg Spend | Key Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast | Covered patios, pergolas, screened rooms | $25,000–$45,000 | Year-round usability; high property values |
| Southeast | Screened porches, pool decks, pergolas | $18,000–$35,000 | Warm climate; bug-season screened rooms popular |
| Texas | Outdoor kitchens, covered patios, pools | $20,000–$40,000 | Entertaining culture; long outdoor season |
| Mountain West | Composite decks, pergolas, fire pits | $18,000–$32,000 | Four-season outdoor lifestyle; altitude living |
| Northeast | Composite decks, three-season rooms | $22,000–$40,000 | Short season drives premium enclosure demand |
| Midwest | Decks, patios, sunrooms | $15,000–$28,000 | Shoulder-season extensions popular; budget-conscious |
Outdoor kitchens are the fastest-growing segment of outdoor living spending, with unit volumes growing 42% from 2021 to 2025. The typical outdoor kitchen installation costs $12,000–$30,000 for a built-in grill station, refrigeration, and countertops. Full outdoor kitchen with island, sink, and appliances runs $25,000–$60,000.
Texas, Florida, California, and Arizona lead outdoor kitchen adoption — markets with long outdoor seasons and strong entertaining cultures. Permit requirements for outdoor kitchens with gas lines vary significantly by municipality; always verify requirements before planning.