Outdoor Kitchen Trends Have Shifted Homeowner Plans
A new industry survey reveals that most homeowners want to change their current outdoor cooking setup.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Home Renovation
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A national survey of 1,000 U.S. homeowners found that 91% of those with outdoor kitchens would change something about their current configuration. While 54% currently use a mobile grill cart, many are looking to upgrade to more permanent solutions.
Why it matters
Homeowners increasingly view outdoor cooking spaces as assets, with 81% of survey participants believing these additions boost property value. This shift is driving significant interest in building or renovating permanent, built-in outdoor kitchen setups.
The median expenditure for outdoor kitchen projects is currently between $5,000 and $10,000. Among current grill cart users, 31% explicitly stated a desire to transition to a permanent, built-in kitchen setup.
The players
BBQ Kitchen Pros
A specialist firm based in Smithtown, New York, that manages residential outdoor kitchen projects across Long Island.
The details
The report highlights a clear migration from portable grill carts to more elaborate, custom-built environments. Homeowners are evaluating their current layouts with an eye toward better organization and functionality, often opting for professional design integrations rather than freestanding appliances.
Timeline
BBQ Kitchen Pros was founded in 2004.
The 2027 Outdoor Kitchen Report was published on October 2, 2026.
Three percent of surveyed homeowners are ready to purchase a setup within the next 90 days.
Fifty-two percent of homeowners intend to upgrade their outdoor space within 24 months.
The Home Front
The trend toward permanent outdoor kitchens reflects a broader shift in residential property investment toward expanded living space. This move suggests homeowners are prioritizing long-term kitchen infrastructure over temporary or portable outdoor appliances.
If you are planning an upgrade, consider your long-term usage before committing to a permanent built-in installation. Review your current layout and determine if a simple grill cart swap or a full-scale renovation best suits your household needs and budget.
The takeaway
Homeowners are clearly prioritizing permanent outdoor culinary spaces as part of their long-term property value strategy. Before starting a project, audit your current grill usage to confirm whether a custom built-in setup is the right investment for your lifestyle.
Further reading
For more guidance on exterior improvements, explore our Home Renovation section.
More information
View the complete outdoor kitchen survey data and report for full insights.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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Do you believe installing an outdoor kitchen is a good way to increase your home value?
