How rising home prices are influencing furniture choices

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How rising home prices are influencing furniture choices

As home prices continue to climb across the United States, many Americans are re-evaluating not just where they live, but how they furnish their homes. House of Leon explores the intersection of real estate trends and home decor preferences, which reveals a shift toward more intentional, adaptable, and value-driven furniture purchases.

The escalating cost of homeownership

In the first quarter of 2025, the median sales price of houses sold in the U.S. stood at $416,900, reflecting a significant increase over the past five years. This surge in housing costs, coupled with higher mortgage rates, has made homeownership less attainable for many, particularly first-time buyers.

Smaller spaces, smarter furnishings

With many buyers settling for smaller homes or opting to rent, there's a growing demand for furniture that maximizes limited space. Modular sofas, extendable dining tables, and multifunctional storage solutions are becoming increasingly popular. These pieces not only fit better in compact living areas but also offer flexibility for future moves or reconfigurations.

Investing in quality over quantity

Interestingly, while the quantity of furniture purchases may decline, the quality and intentionality behind each purchase are on the rise. Consumers are leaning toward durable, timeless pieces that offer long-term value. This trend is evident in the growth of the home furnishings market, which the Business Research Company projects to reach $286.39 billion by 2029, up from $217.53 billion in 2024.

The rental market's influence

As more individuals remain in the rental market due to high home prices, there's a noticeable shift in furniture preferences. Renters prioritize portability and adaptability, leading to increased interest in lightweight, easy-to-assemble furniture. Additionally, the rise of online home furnishing sales, which reached an estimated $15.5 billion in 2024, underscores the demand for convenient shopping experiences that cater to this demographic.

Conclusion

The current real estate landscape is undeniably influencing how Americans approach home furnishing. With rising home prices and a competitive housing market, consumers are making more deliberate choices, focusing on quality, adaptability, and value. This shift not only reflects economic realities but also a broader change in lifestyle and priorities.

This story was produced by House of Leon and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.