As autumn rolls in, homeowners everywhere are rolling up their sleeves for home improvement and maintenance projects. From giving rooms a fresh coat of paint to checking those all-important smoke detectors, it’s all about getting ready for cozy fall gatherings!
When it comes to transforming the look and feel of a home, one of the most impactful changes you can make is through the power of paint. Americans have a vast array of options when it comes to selecting paint colors, ranging from classic neutrals to bold statements. A new study by All Star Home found what paint colors Americans use the most by analyzing Google Trends to identify the most popular paint color in each state. In a survey of more than 1,000 homeowners, the study also reveals their paint preferences, favorite colors, and when to DIY a project or leave it to the professionals.
Each State’s Favorite Paint Color
To find the paint preferences of Americans, the study conducted an analysis using Google Trends data, along with surveying more than 1,000 homeowners. The results were intriguing, showing that classic, timeless shades continue to hold a special place in the hearts of American homeowners.
1. White: White paint remains a clear favorite across the U.S. Sherwin Williams’ “Alabaster” is the top choice in Florida and Michigan, while Benjamin Moore’s “Swiss Coffee” reigns supreme in Utah and California. New Jersey leans towards “Chantilly Lace” from Benjamin Moore, while New York’s favorite is “Decorator’s White.”
2. Gray and Greige: For those who prefer a more subdued palette, variations of gray or greige (a blend of beige and gray) are the go-to choices. “Agreeable Gray” by Sherwin Williams is a top pick in Alabama, North Carolina, and Arizona. Illinois and Connecticut prefer “Revere Pewter” from Benjamin Moore’s Historic Collection, while Minnesota and Wisconsin favor the warmer tone of “Accessible Beige” from Sherwin Williams.
3. Bolder Choices: Some homeowners dare to add more color to their living spaces. Deep browns, blacks, blues, and greens are popular choices. “Urbane Bronze,” Sherwin Williams’ 2021 color of the year, dominates in Colorado, Idaho, Oklahoma, and Washington. Vermont and Alaska opt for a classic maritime feel with “Hale Navy” from Benjamin Moore, while Mississippi prefers the rich “Black Forest Green” by Benjamin Moore.
4. The Reign of Gray and White: Despite the abundance of colors available, variations of gray and white continue to dominate American homes. Sherwin Williams’ “Grizzle Gray” stands out as the most popular paint color in the U.S., setting a dramatic tone, especially for exteriors. Other variations of gray, such as “Web Gray” and “Agreeable Gray,” also make the top 10 list. In fact, five of the top 10 paint colors in the United States are white, including “Alabaster,” “Snowbound,” and selections from Benjamin Moore.
5. Exception to the Rule: The only non-gray or white color to crack the top ten list was Benjamin Moore’s “Palladian Blue,” described as calm, soft, and airy.
Graphic: TS_Paint-Colors-by-State_Graphic-2 Blog
Interior and Exterior Painting in 2023
Americans aren’t afraid to take matters into their own hands when it comes to interior painting. A whopping 93% of homeowners have painted at least one room in their home, spending an average of $439 on interior paint projects in the past year. While 1 in 4 finds painting an interior room easy, nearly 1 in 5 consider it a challenging endeavor.
Graphic: TS_Paint-Colors-by-State_Graphic-3 Blog
On the other hand, exterior painting tells a different story. Only 27% of homeowners have taken on the task of painting the exterior of their homes, with an average spending of $1,001 on previous projects. A significant 36% of homeowners find exterior paint jobs challenging, and almost 1 in 6 believe it’s a task best left to the experts.
Graphic: TS_Paint-Colors-by-State_Graphic-4 Blog
Choosing a Paint Color
With fall in full swing, it’s not just about bringing out the cozy blankets and Halloween decorations; it’s also the season for sprucing up homes with a new and fresh paint color. Selecting the right paint color can be a daunting task for many homeowners. Surprisingly, 40% have experienced regret over their paint color choices, and 32% have even repainted a room because they weren’t satisfied with the initial color. For some, choosing a favorite color serves as a guide. However, only 1 in 4 finds picking a paint color an easy task.
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Overall, painting a home, whether inside or out, is a substantial undertaking that involves time, effort, and financial investment. Whether you seek advice from a friend, a family member, or professionals, finding the perfect paint color and executing your vision can be a rewarding experience that transforms your living space into something special!
By Jenna LeMair
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