The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2025 report, Improving America’s Housing, reveals significant disparities in home improvement spending between do-it-yourself (DIY) and professional projects, influenced by homeowner demographics and housing characteristics. In 2023, homeowners in the lowest income quintile (earning under $37,500) spent an average of $2,300 on improvements, whereas those in the highest quintile (earning over $172,000) spent approximately $9,100. High-income homeowners also invested nearly three times more in DIY projects and over four times more in professional renovations compared to their lower-income counterparts.
Age and housing stock further influence these spending patterns. Older homeowners, who often have more financial resources and equity, are more likely to hire professionals for complex renovations. In contrast, younger homeowners tend to undertake DIY projects, driven by budget constraints and a desire to build skills. Additionally, older homes, which may require more extensive repairs, often necessitate professional expertise, leading to higher expenditures in this segment.
These findings underscore the importance of considering homeowner demographics and housing characteristics when analyzing home improvement trends. They also highlight the need for targeted policies and programs to support equitable access to home improvement resources, ensuring that all homeowners can maintain and enhance their properties effectively.
