Pets aren’t just companions — they’re family. And according to a recent National Association of REALTORS® report, one in five homebuyers actively considered their pet’s needs when choosing a neighborhood. From proximity to parks and vets to fenced yards, these devoted pet owners are shaping the housing market in meaningful ways.

While pet ownership continues to increase, the share of families with children under the age of 18 living in their homes has continued to decline. Seventy-one percent of Americans own a pet, the American Pet Products Association reports, with dogs and cats as the most common household companions. On the other hand, according to the U.S. Census, 39% of families had children under the age of 18 in 2024, which is a drop from 52% in 1950.

As for homebuyers, the trend has hit an all-time low. In 2024, 27% of homebuyers had a child under the age of 18 in their home, compared to 58% in 1985. 

Recent data from NAR highlights the increasing share of pets in households and the growing time and resources people are devoting to them. Among homebuying unmarried couples, 24% considered their pet when deciding on a neighborhood, compared to 15% of married couples. Seventeen percent of single women considered factoring their pet into their neighborhood choice, compared to 12% of single men.

Those who considered their pets in the homebuying process were also reportedly more likely to consider other neighborhood features than those who did not factor a pet into their decision. Pet owners were more likely to prioritize larger lots, parks, recreation areas and walkability.