Did you know there are now more U.S. households with pets than with children? This shift is transforming the real estate market, as pet ownership increasingly influences home buying decisions. From choosing a pet-friendly neighborhood to prioritizing backyard space, Americans are putting their pets at the heart of their home search.
The Rise of Pet Ownership in America
Pets have become a central part of American households. According to the American Pet Products Association, 71% of U.S. households owned a pet in 2024, a significant jump from 56% in 1988. Dogs and cats remain the most popular, with many households adopting pets during the COVID-19 pandemic for companionship. While adoption rates have slightly cooled since their peak, pet ownership remains a dominant trend.
In contrast, the U.S. Census reports that only 39% of households in 2024 had children under 18, down from 52% in 1950. Declining birth rates and aging baby boomer households contribute to this shift. Among home buyers, this trend is even more pronounced: in 1985, 58% of home buyers had children under 18, but by 2024, that figure dropped to a record low of 27%.
Pets as a Driving Force in Home Buying
With pets outnumbering children in many homes, it’s no wonder they’re influencing real estate decisions. According to the 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, about one-fifth of recent home buyers considered their pets when choosing a neighborhood. This influence is even stronger among specific groups:
- Unmarried couples: 24% factored their pets into their neighborhood choice.
- Single women: 17% prioritized pet-friendly neighborhoods, compared to 12% of single men.
Pet owners are looking for specific features to accommodate their animals. Proximity to veterinarians, access to outdoor spaces, and larger lot sizes are top considerations. Buyers who prioritize their pets also value walkability, parks, and recreational areas, ensuring their pets have room to roam and play.
Time and Money: The Growing Investment in Pets
Americans are dedicating more time and money to their pets than ever before. The BLS American Time Use Survey reveals that in 2023, 20.4% of Americans spent time with their pets daily, up from 13.2% in 2003. Women, in particular, are more likely to engage with their pets, with 23.8% spending time daily. The average time spent with pets has also risen, from 0.62 hours per day in 2003 to 0.73 hours in 2023.
Financially, pets are a booming industry. The American Pet Products Association reports that U.S. pet industry expenditures skyrocketed from $53.3 billion in 2012 to $152 billion in 2024. From premium pet food to grooming and veterinary care, pet owners are investing heavily in their animals’ well-being, further underscoring their importance in household decisions.
Why Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods Matter
Home buyers who prioritize their pets tend to focus on neighborhood features that benefit both themselves and their animals. Larger lots, access to parks, and walkable areas are highly sought after, reflecting the needs of active pets. These buyers are also more likely to consider other neighborhood amenities, such as safety and community vibe, which align with a pet-friendly lifestyle.
For example, a single woman buying a home might choose a neighborhood with nearby dog parks or trails to ensure her pet has ample space to exercise. Similarly, unmarried couples may prioritize homes with fenced yards or proximity to veterinary services to accommodate their furry companions.
Key Takeaways for Home Buyers and Sellers
The growing influence of pets on home buying presents opportunities for both buyers and sellers. If you’re a home buyer with pets, consider the following when searching for your dream home:
- Proximity to pet services: Look for neighborhoods with easy access to veterinarians, pet stores, and grooming facilities.
- Outdoor space: Prioritize homes with yards or nearby parks for your pet’s playtime.
- Walkability: Choose areas with safe, pet-friendly walking paths or trails.
For sellers, highlighting pet-friendly features can attract a broader pool of buyers. Emphasize spacious backyards, nearby dog parks, or pet-friendly community amenities in your listings to appeal to this growing demographic.
Summary
Pets are no longer just part of the family—they’re driving major financial decisions, including where Americans choose to buy homes. With pet ownership on the rise and households with children declining, it’s clear that our furry friends are shaping the real estate market. Whether it’s a spacious yard or a walkable neighborhood, pet-friendly features are becoming a must-have for many buyers.
Are you thinking about buying or selling a pet-friendly home in the South Florida area? We can help! Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Also, don’t forget to download our free Florida Home Search App for your smartphone or tablet.
