Ranking: The Best States for DIY Projects

Methodology

We wanted to see which states have the most hospitable environments for DIY renovation projects on homes. To do this, we analyzed four key metrics per capita:

• Home Depots 
• Available construction workers via the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 
• Google search volume from 9/1/24 to 8/31/25 based on 5,892 terms relevant to DIY projects
• The number of Zillow listings of homes with the following terms: “good bones,” “fixer-upper,” and “well loved.” 

These metrics reflect homes in need of renovation, overall interest in DIY, as well as supplies and labor necessary to do major renovations. Each metric was divided by the state’s population per the U.S. Census’ most recent estimates, and weighted such that the highest number earned 25 points, and the lowest earned 0. 

The Best States for DIY Renovation Projects 

According to our analysis, it seems it’s easiest to do DIY projects in wide open spaces: Wyoming takes the crown as the #1 state for DIY renovation projects, with a cumulative score of 68 points out of 100. Close behind is Alaska, followed by North Dakota, Montana, and New Hampshire to round out the top 5. 

Key factors contributing to their top rankings include a high availability of workers as well as demonstrated search interest in DIY projects, while New Hampshire excelled in Home Depots per capita. 

Rounding out the top 10 are Maine, New Mexico, Vermont, Arkansas, and Delaware; all were either middle of the road across all variables or particularly excelled in DIY interest or Zillow availability. 

Which States are Most DIY-Obsessed? 

While the top DIY renovation-friendly states all had a degree of interest in DIY projects, some states stood out among the rest in terms of their enthusiasm for DIY projects and inspiration. We analyzed 5,892 search terms around DIY projects, renovations, or inspiration thereof, and looked at each state’s per capita share of search volume. 

Vermont tops the list of the most DIY obsessed state, with an average search volume per capita of 7505.09, meaning the good people of the Green Mountain state are always on the hunt for a good renovation project. After Vermont, Wyoming, Delaware, Alaska, and Rhode Island round out the top 5 states for search interest in DIY. North Carolina, New Hampshire, North and South Dakota, and Maine complete the top 10. New England is clearly a buzzy DIY hub! 

These States Have the Most Available DIY-Ready Homes Per Capita

Say you want to do the DIY renovation of your dreams, but are still in the market for a home? According to Zillow, you’ll have the most success finding a DIY-ready home in Arkansas, which boasts a huge 6.35 homes listed on Zillow per capita that are “fixer uppers,” have “good bones,” or are “well loved.” 

After Arkansas, Oregon, Mississippi, Montana, and Louisiana round out the top 5. Finally, Georgia, Alaska, Alabama, New Mexico, and Texas also all have a lot of homes available for renovations. 

Full Ranking: The Most DIY Renovation-Friendly States in the U.S. 

Curious to see where your state stacks up? Here’s the full ranking: 

No matter where your home is, we’re here to help you navigate the excitement of renovating your home to become your customized castle. By ensuring your home systems and appliances are covered under one of our AHS plans, you’ll have added peace of mind and all the more time to focus on what color to paint those new walls. Not only that, but as a benefit with select plans, members can video chat with live repair Experts who can help with your DIY project, and assess or fix home hassles in real time at no extra cost.

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.