Porches Are the New Decks

What’s happening: Homebuyers are rethinking outdoor space – and the classic backyard deck is losing ground to the more flexible, more functional front and rear porches.

The percentage of new homes with porches is on the rise reaching 68% in 2023.

Why it matters: Porches add usable square footage, boost curb appeal, and create the kind of indoor–outdoor living today’s buyers want – without the maintenance headaches of a traditional deck.

Driving the shift

• Year-round use: Covered porches offer shade, weather protection, and space for heaters or fans – meaning more days outside.

• Lower maintenance: Composite or concrete porch floors outlast wood decking, reducing long-term costs and upkeep.

• Better resale value: Builders report higher buyer interest in homes that blend living spaces with outdoor “rooms.”

• Community connection: A front porch encourages neighborhood interaction – something buyers in new communities increasingly want.

For new-construction buyers

Think of a porch as an extension of your lifestyle, not just a bonus feature.

Key questions to ask your builder:

• Which porch options are included? (Front? Rear? Screened?)

• What’s the load capacity? – important if you want a swing, grill, or outdoor kitchen.

• Can electrical and lighting be added now? Cheaper during build, pricier later.

• Is screening or glass enclosure possible? Future-proofs your space for bugs, heat, and weather.

The bottom line: Decks aren’t disappearing – but porches are becoming the must-have outdoor feature for new homes. They offer more comfort, more flexibility, and more value from day one.

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