A report published November 5 by Vivint reveals that homeowners are increasingly prioritizing security, energy management, and professional installation in their smart home technology. The second annual How We Home report shows that 78% of homeowners own at least one smart home device.
Security remains a primary concern for many residents. According to the report, 46% of homeowners are more concerned about theft affecting their properties than they were five years ago. Additionally, 52% of respondents believe porch piracy is increasing, and 22% reported having a package stolen after delivery. While 1 in 5 homeowners report feeling less safe in their homes due to crime, economic conditions, or severe weather, 72% say they trust smart devices with their privacy.
Rising utility costs are also driving technology adoption. The report states that 59% of homeowners reported an increase in energy bills over the last year, and 63% are more concerned about energy expenses now than five years ago. Consequently, 37% of homeowners use smart technology to track and manage energy consumption. Among Gen Z, 50% report spending at least $300 every month on utilities outside of peak seasons.
The research indicates a shift toward professional installation as devices become more complex. About one-third of homeowners cite ensuring correct installation as a primary reason for choosing professional services. This trend follows challenges with setup, as 48% of homeowners own a smart device they rarely or never use, and 22% have purchased a device they never installed. David Porter, Managing Director of Vivint, stated that homeowners are looking for integrated systems rather than a collection of disconnected devices.
The How We Home report was based on a survey of 5,000 U.S. homeowners conducted online in September 2026. The study was commissioned by Vivint and conducted by market research company OnePoll.
