Key statistics
✔️ 65.1 million households own at least one dog, making them the most popular pet.
✔️ 42.2 million households own at least one cat, the second most popular pet.
✔️ 80% of pet owners in 2025 are homeowners, while only 38% of renters own pets.
✔️ 70% of Millennials now own at least one pet, compared to 50% of Boomers.
✔️ Veterinary costs have increased by over 10% since 2020
✔️ The U.S. pet industry is now valued at over $100 billion, reflecting the growing importance of pets in daily life.
✔️ Texas, Florida, and Idaho are seeing the highest increase in pet ownership, while California, New York, and New Jersey are experiencing declines.
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🐾 Pet Ownership Trends Over the Last Decade
How Ownership Has Changed Over Time
In 2011, only 56% of U.S. households owned a pet - in 2025, this number has reached 66%.
Dogs remain the most popular pet, with 65.1 million households owning at least one.
Cat ownership is steady, with 42.2 million households owning at least one feline.
The U.S. pet industry is now valued at over $100 billion, reflecting the growing importance of pets in daily life.
Generational Shifts in Pet Ownership
Millennials and Gen Z are the biggest pet owners today, with 70% of Millennials owning at least one pet.
As Boomers downsize, pet ownership among retirees is decreasing, especially in high-cost states
Younger generations are driving demand for pet-friendly workplaces, housing, and services.
Regional Differences
❌ States like California, New York, and New Jersey are seeing lower pet ownership rates, mainly due to higher housing costs, fewer pet-friendly rentals, and urbanization trends.
🌎 Which U.S. States Have the Most and Least Pets?
Which States Have the Most Pets?↗️
More space & larger homes: Rural and suburban homes often have yards and open land, making pet ownership easier.
Fewer rental restrictions: More pet-friendly housing means fewer barriers to pet ownership.
Cultural factors: Many rural communities see pets as essential companions, particularly for outdoor lifestyles.
Which States Have the Fewest Pets?↘️
Higher urbanization: Smaller living spaces mean fewer families can accommodate pets.
Stricter rental laws: Many landlords do not accept pets due to space constraints and damage concerns.
Economic factors: Higher cost of living means pet ownership is less affordable for many residents.
🔎 What's Driving Changes in Pet Ownership?
Economic Factors: Can Americans Afford to Own Pets?
Rising inflation & cost of pet care: Veterinary costs have increased by over 10% since 2020, making pet ownership more expensive.
Higher housing costs: States with expensive rent and fewer pet-friendly rentals (like California and New York) have lower pet ownership rates.
Pet insurance is on the rise: More pet owners are purchasing pet insurance as veterinary costs skyrocket, especially in high-income states.
Wealthier states (e.g., Massachusetts, Maryland) see lower pet ownership rates because of high costs and strict housing rules.
States with a lower cost of living (e.g., Wyoming, West Virginia) have higher pet ownership rates because pets are more affordable.
Housing & Pet Policies: Are Rental Rules Limiting Pet Ownership?
Pet-friendly rentals are limited: In urban areas, landlords often impose pet bans or extra fees for pet-friendly units.
Homeowners are more likely to own pets: 80% of pet owners in 2025 are homeowners, while only 38% of renters own pets.
More people are seeking pet-friendly communities: Many suburban areas are becoming more pet-friendly, leading to higher pet ownership in states like Texas and Florida.
Demographic Shifts: Who Owns Pets in 2025?
Millennials & Gen Z are driving pet ownership growth: 70% of Millennials now own at least one pet, compared to 50% of Boomers.
Young professionals are delaying children but getting pets: Many Millennials view pets as "starter families."
Older generations are downsizing: Retirees often move into pet-restricted housing, reducing pet ownership rates among Boomers.
Older generations downsizing = fewer pets in high-cost states like California and New York.
🔮 PetRadar's Predicted Trends for 2026 and Beyond
Prediction: States like Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee will see the highest growth in pet ownership.
Prediction: By 2026, over 50% of pet owners may have pet insurance, up from just 27% in 2022.
Prediction: Major cities like Austin, Denver, and Orlando will lead the way in expanding pet-friendly rental options.
Prediction: By 2026, Millennials and Gen Z will account for 75% of all pet owners.
Prediction: Adoption rates will rise in pet-friendly states, especially in the South & Midwest, where shelters are actively working to improve adoption rates.
🔶 Conclusion: The Future of Pet Ownership in the U.S.
Meanwhile, states like Texas, Florida, and Idaho are leading the way in pet ownership growth, while California, New York, and New Jersey experience declines due to economic pressures and limited housing options for pet owners.
American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2023–2024
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 2022
ASPCA Pet Ownership Report 2024
USDA Data 2024
Written by
I’ve gained a deep understanding of the challenges and emotions that come with searching for a missing pet, and I’m here to provide guidance, support, and a little bit of hope along the way. When I'm not helping reunite lost pets with their pet parents, you’ll likely find me spending time with my own furry companion, Valla - a curious gray tabby with a **very** independent spirit.
