What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular?

Since this is a decor inspiration blog, I thought you might be curious (as I am) about which decorating and home improvement television shows are snagging the most attention from viewers. We’ll look at the top six in this post answering What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?

Long farm table and benches painted white in a covered patio on Fixer Upper. Come find out the answer to: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?
HGTV’s Fixer Upper – Find out: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?

What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?

Joybird recently shared awesome infographics (like the one below) which reveal a ton of info on the topic. Find your state and see if you are surprised at what decorating or home improvement show is most popular!

Joybird's infographic with results. Come find out the answer to: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?
Joybird – 24% of states preferred shows about house flipping.

Joybird used Google Trends to determine the most popular home improvement shows in America by analyzing state-to-state search data for the last 12 months. (So keep in mind these results don’t reflect which shows racked up the most views; rather, these shows were searched on Google the most.)

#1 Home Improvement Show: FLIP OR FLOP

A beautiful grey marble bath on HGTV's Flip or Flop with Tarek and Christina. Come find out the answer to: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?
HGTV’s Flip or Flop

I was not surprised to learn FLIP OR FLOP took the top spot. Maybe the dramatic transformations on the show resonate with Americans because of how satisfying it is to see beauty rise from ashes. (You know by now I am bound to relate any discussion at all to some correlate in the spiritual realm!)

Quote about personal transformation from Michele of Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #quotes #encouragementquote #spiritualtransformation #hellolovelystudio #quotes
Tarek and Christina of Flip or Flop
Tarek & Christina

FLIP OR FLOP seems largely formulaic (auctioned eyesores become luxurious properties), and perhaps knowing what to expect is satisfying to viewers who experience enough unpredictability in their personal and professional lives.

A messy 'before' master bedroom on Flip or Flop.
The ‘before’ of a master bedroom on Flip or Flop

The condition of the fixer Tarek and Christina choose to tackle on any given episode is typically filled with garbage, extremely neglected, and ugly inside and out. The episode below is known as the “Flea Bag Flip.”

A drama within the drama of this show plays out as tension between the stars of the show. And I don’t just mean that the couple are divorced. One party consistently desires to spend conservatively on the flip, and the other is a risk taker seeking to entice buyers with trendy glam.

Quote about trusting the mystery from Michele of Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquote #motivationalquote #spiritualtransformation #hellolovelystudio

Is this your favorite show, or do you favor another decorating show on the list?

#2: FIXER UPPER

A beautiful living room from Fixer Upper with brown leather furniture and antique style doors flanking the builtins and TV. Come find out the answer to: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?
In case you’re curious…What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?

Flip or Flop is searched online significantly more than FIXER UPPER which took the number two spot in Joybird’s analysis.

Quote about learning from failure by Nelson Mandela on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquote #personalgrowthquote #motivationalquote

Care to step inside Chip and Joanna’s farmhouse in Waco? (I had fun seeing the exterior in person when we drove by it on a visit to the Silos.) The Fixer Upper stars don’t ever give tours, so you may wish check it out:

For every argument and ‘blingy’ moment on Flip or Flop, Chip and Joanna seem to share more silly or sentimental ones.

Chip and Joanna's Waco farmhouse entry with shiplap on walls, barn style lantern, and rustic decor. #fixerupper #joannagaines #farmhouse #entry #shiplap

There’s a relational harmony viewers seem to love almost as much as all the shiplap on FIXER UPPER. The only conflict in the show’s formula seems to be that awkward phone call to the homeowner when a non-budgeted expense surfaces.

Meister Eckhart inspiring quote about beginnings on Hello Lovely Studio. #meistereckhart #quotes #inspirationalquote #quotes

#3 Home Improvement Show: HOME TOWN

I had no idea the quintessentially Southern, HOME TOWN was so wildly popular, and I’m thrilled for the Napiers!!!

Inspirational quoteQuote about smiles from Dolly Parton on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #lifequote #encouragementquote #quoteabouthope

In the episode below, a gentleman moving to Laurel, Mississippi commissioned the team to renovate a ranch home and handed them a blank check for the job! (It’s more typical to see budgets of $100-200K on Home Town).

HT is a newer show (new to me) I’ve fallen for, and there is always something new to learn about old homes, DIY projects, or a fresh look with vintage style. Ben and Erin create something highly memorable and personal for every project they take on, so there’s this strong sense of authenticity.

Inspirational quote about strength from Michele of Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquote #lifequote #encouragementquote #quoteabouthope

For example, while the Gaines’ commission a special piece of furniture and shop for vintage accessories, the Napiers still seem to have time to create art and furniture themselves.

If you have yet to see the show, I highly recommend it!

#4: THIS OLD HOUSE

Beautiful blue exterior of Charleston houses from This Old House.
This Old House – Season 39: The Charleston Houses

The PBS series THIS OLD HOUSE is still going strong after 40 seasons! Can you believe the first episode aired in 1979? The Charleston houses they tackled reminded me of our visit to that magical place a few months back.

Image result for THIS OLD HOUSE 1979 tv show

The first ten years were presented by Bob Vila before Steve Thomas took the reigns until 2003, when Kevin O’Connor stepped in.

R.H. Sin quote about self-kindness on Hello Lovely Studio. #rhsin #inspirationalquote #feminismquote #quotes #personalgrowth

This Old House covers a whole-house renovation over several episodes, and there is always plenty of instruction on this show. What a testament that the brand is still thriving, and viewers are searching online for more info about the show.

Amy Matthews in action on DIY Network's Sweat Equity television show.
DIY Network’s Sweat Equity

#5 Home Improvement Show: SWEAT EQUITY

The DIY Network’s SWEAT EQUITY is in the #5 position and almost as popular as This Old House. In fact, the show draws about the same number as searches as Sarah’s House, House Hunters, and Flipping Out.

Inspirational quote of encouragement. #hellolovelystudio #quotes #inspirationalquote

SWEAT EQUITY features licensed contractor Amy Matthews and her team of DIY Network experts.

The show’s mission is to help homeowners tackle weekend projects themselves, providing tips to build equity along the way. Increasing the value, appearance, and enjoyment of our homes is an attractive prospect and explains this TV show’s wide appeal.

Funny Christmas humor and holiday quote. #quotes #funnyquote #christmas #humor

#6: SARAH’S HOUSE

A gorgeous French country style bathroom with design by Sarah Richardson features yellow toile curtains and vintage clawfoot tub. #sarahrichardson #bathroomdesign #frenchcountry
HGTV’s Sarah’s House

Sarah Richardson is a reader favorite on Hello Lovely, and no surprise…her HGTV show SARAH’S HOUSE is hugely popular at number six.

If you have been watching the designing Sarah Richardson in action since the 90’s like moi, then you have likely grown to respect and admire her simple, timeless, classic style.

Inspirational quote about personal growth. #quotes #inspirationalquote #personalgrowth

The Full List of the Most Popular Home Improvement Shows in the USA

Is your favorite home show on the list? Do you routinely search for resources or images from a particular home improvement show?

Joybird graphic. Come find out the answer to: What Home Improvement Shows are Most Popular in the USA?
Joybird

Check out these recent stories in case you missed ’em:

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Shopping for items you already intended to buy on Amazon RIGHT HERE (not just items mentioned in posts) or home decor keeps decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
Subscribe to Hello Lovely Studio!
click to subscribe!
Follow:

12 Comments

  1. March 8, 2020 / 5:46 am

    Interesting post! It says Flipping Out is the preferred show for Connecticut and I haven’t heard of it LOL!

    We prefer all the Property Brother series and Fixer Upper at my house 🙂

    • Michele
      Author
      March 8, 2020 / 4:22 pm

      That IS interesting. I have watched lots of Flipping Out episodes – many will make you a nervous wreck since there is so much reality (like firing an employee or tradesperso nas we watch!). The Property Brothers are so popular that I’m shocked they aren’t higher on the list for searches! I saw them in person a few years back at the mall of America, and they are so personable as you can easily tell on their show. Thanks for playing along!

  2. Margarita W.
    March 8, 2020 / 1:25 pm

    Since the survey was based on most Google searched and not actual viewing I am not surprised Flip or Flop got #1. I think their personal drama has cause more interest in the show. I personally didn’t think Christina had education in interior design or and art back ground and it showed. I especially didn’t like it when she wanted glitter in every counter top ugh! But in watching her new show her taste is getting better. I do enjoy watching Property Brothers & Home Town and their remodels are amazing. But I’d say overall I love Fixer Upper the most. My taste is more in line with Joanna’s designs and I love the family dynamics. I’d wished Leanne Ford had a show I certainly would watch her, are you listening HGTV?

    • Michele
      Author
      March 8, 2020 / 4:17 pm

      Leanne Ford has a show that you must watch, M!!! It’s called RESTORED BY THE FORDS. She and her brother Steve are so amazing. Really good point about Flip or Flop. Were the google searches about gossipy stuff and not sources for decor….I wonder. Have you watched One of a Kind? I adore the designer’s creativity and soulfulness. Every project is tailored and different, and her team are so real and delightful. Thanks so much for playing along.

  3. Joanna
    March 8, 2020 / 3:12 pm

    The only one I watch is Sarah Richardson. I’ve followed her for years on HGTV and now on YouTube. She has a great eye for turning an old, outdated building into a desirable residence. I like that she reuses material from the original in a new way (if possible). I guess we have the same aesthetic. I’m not interested in rustic, country, bohemian, mansions or cold spaces. I could move into Sarah’s spaces.

    • Michele
      Author
      March 8, 2020 / 6:51 pm

      I know what you mean about Sarah’s sensibilities – she is never trying to show off or do anything trendy – she always balances things just right. I also love her eye for textiles and how she customizes upholstery and design elements with them. I absolutely loved those early Sarah days when she always included DIYs and presented them in a way that was empowering. In those days, the homes she was decorating were mainly small or apartments so they were very rooted in reality. I feel like it is rare now to see any decor shows focus on apartments or small spaces, and I’m sure the audience for them is huge.

      • Joanna
        March 9, 2020 / 5:05 pm

        Yes, I enjoyed the earlier shows when she was always on the hunt at flea markets. It was refreshing to see a designer using old pieces in a new, clever way.

        Tommy was a hoot! We rarely see him make an appearance these days. Tommy, do you hear me?! We Want More Tommy! 😉

        She has certainly grown in the Design World. She now has her own line of furniture, area rugs, even wallpaper. She saw a need and filled that niche.

        • Michele
          Author
          March 9, 2020 / 8:56 pm

          I love Tommy so much – when they are together, Sarah always look like she is trying not to double over with laughter. He cracks me up too, and I wish we could be best friends. Think there’s a fan club? Let’s start one! Hahahahahaha

  4. March 8, 2020 / 8:09 pm

    My favorite is Home Town. Love their attitude.
    They are not trying to make millions by putting their name on everything.
    Love the quality work they do and that they are reviving Laurel.
    Too bad I can’t live there or I would definitely hire them. Wish this renewal happened in more towns.

    • Michele
      Author
      March 8, 2020 / 9:22 pm

      YES. Just starting watching them a few weeks ago. I would hire them in a heartbeat and trust Erin’s taste. They are doing so much for Laurel as well as the market for vintage with their “Grand-millennial style” which is striking a chord. Thanks so much for reading, Colleen.

  5. Curtis Compares
    March 9, 2020 / 1:35 am

    Really very interesting article to read. Thank you so much for sharing us!

    • Michele
      Author
      March 9, 2020 / 12:49 pm

      Thanks for reading. 🙂

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing