Inside Smart Home Adoption Trends

Rising smart home adoption reflects homebuyers’ growing expectation that homes provide expanded functionality and adaptability.

Homebuyers are no longer shopping for just a house. They want a sanctuary, a place that feels secure, and a space that supports both daily life and work. As a result, purchasing decisions are increasingly shaped by how a home makes buyers feel and how well it supports their day-to-day needs.

Smart home technologies are increasingly seen as a way to meet these expectations and elevate the living experience. From improved energy efficiency and smart thermostats to enhanced security enabled by smart locks and surveillance systems, these solutions help homes better align with homeowners’ evolving needs.

According to COGNITION Smart Data, the most common drivers behind smart home purchases include:

• Improving energy efficiency: 47%
• Addressing security concerns: 28%
• Enabling remote check-ins: 2

Smart home adoption is not limited to new buyers. According to COGNITION Smart Data, 66% of existing homeowners report investing in one to three smart devices, signaling steady post-purchase adoption.

Over the course of the past several years, the most commonly purchased smart home devices include:

• Audio and visual equipment: 23%
• Smart doorbells: 21%
• Smart doors and windows: 20%
• Centralized hubs: 19%
• Energy monitoring systems: 19%

While adoption continues to grow, COGNITION Smart Data also reveals clear limitations in current smart home implementations. Homeowners report several recurring frustrations, including limited interoperability across devices and hubs (35%), unforeseen technical issues (34%), and short battery life (18%).

These findings highlight the importance of a more intentional approach to smart home integration. Builders who prioritize interoperable systems built around a single centralized hub, select intuitive and reliable technologies, and specify rechargeable devices can deliver a more seamless homeowner experience. 

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