Americans are diving headfirst into do-it-yourself (DIY) projects—literally. A new survey by Frontdoor reveals that 98% of U.S. homeowners have tackled at least one DIY project, and the momentum isn’t slowing down. Three out of four plan to take on another in 2025.
What’s fueling this surge? A blend of cost savings, personal satisfaction, and the never-ending inspiration found on social media. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest making home improvements look easy, many homeowners are finding the confidence to try projects they might have previously hired professionals to handle. In fact, 52% of respondents credited social media for giving them the push to start.
Trending DIY Projects
From backyard makeovers to storm-proofing essentials, homeowners across the country are customizing their spaces based on their needs and climates. According to recent search trends, some of the most popular projects include:
- Chicken coops (popular in the South)
- Raised garden beds (big in the Midwest)
- Storm shelters (essential in tornado-prone states)
- Outdoor lighting & saunas (trending for home value boosts)
The survey found that homeowners spent an average of $804 on their latest DIY project and around $1,674 over the past year. While nearly half (47%) said they chose DIY because hiring a professional was too expensive, others simply enjoyed the process.
When DIY Gets Messy
Of course, not every project goes as planned. 42% of homeowners admitted they regretted at least one DIY attempt, with the biggest frustrations being:
- It didn’t turn out as expected (32%)
- It took way longer than planned (27%)
- It ended up costing more than expected (17%)
Yet, despite the hiccups, the DIY spirit remains strong. 77% of respondents said they enjoy DIY projects, and 83% feel empowered by learning new skills. When things don’t go according to plan, most homeowners turn to YouTube, Google, or a handy family member before calling in a pro.
And if there’s one universal truth about DIY, it’s this: Trips to the hardware store are inevitable. One survey respondent offered this hard-earned wisdom:
“Triple your expectations of how many times you will have to go to the hardware store.”
Expert Advice for DIY Success
Tackling home projects can be intimidating, but the right mindset (and tools) make all the difference.
“Make sure to use the proper tools and equipment for your project and don’t be intimidated if something is new to you,” says Brett Labeka, Handyperson Expert at Frontdoor. “Remember, you can learn as you go!”
For those hesitant to start, HVAC expert Mike Payne offers words of encouragement:
“You can do it! Things might be harder than you expect, and usually always take longer than the videos you see online, but if you hang in there, you can complete any project.”
The Future of DIY
As homeowners continue to embrace DIY, it’s clear this trend isn’t going anywhere. Whether it’s about saving money, learning new skills, or making a house feel like home, more Americans are proving they’re willing to grab a drill and figure it out themselves.
