What Homebuyers Really Want: The 2025 Zillow Zeitgeist

REGION – Millions of home searches from 2025, analyzed in this year’s Zillow Zeitgeist, reveal what people were actually looking for in their next home. These searches tell a story.

Last year, Americans desired space, with searches for features like “acreage,” “mansion,” and “luxury” increasing. In 2025, the focus shifted from square footage to how spaces can enhance lifestyle. From Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to waterfront views, the “dream home” concept leaned more toward lifestyle than layout.

The ideal home isn’t one-size-fits-all, but several trending themes emerged across the country. A full map of all states and their corresponding top home search features can be viewed at www.tinyurl.com/2025homefeatures.

Let’s Go Swimming

whether for the view or activities, water-related searches made a splash for nearly every state – even inland markets.

Searches…