Staying In Is The New Going Out: Americans Embrace Home As The Ultimate Social Hub, survey Finds

In a cultural shift that may surprise no one post-pandemic, Americans are now twice as likely to prefer hosting guests at home to heading out for a night on the town.

A new survey of 2,000 U.S. adults reveals that 72% of those with a preference opt for staying in with friends — highlighting a growing trend toward comfort, connection, and cost-conscious socializing.

The survey, commissioned by Air Wick and conducted by Talker Research, found that nearly half (49%) of respondents say this shift toward at-home gatherings happened in just the last few years. And while convenience and affordability play key roles — 53% cite saving money as a top benefit — comfort leads the way. Sixty-five percent say home just feels more relaxed, and 47% enjoy being able to actually hear one another.

Hosting at home may mean less noise, but it doesnt come without effort. Americans report spending an average of two hours and 10 minutes prepping before guests arrive, with many citing the desire to freshen up the house and create a welcoming atmosphere. A significant 82% of respondents said they think about how their home smells before hosting, and 78% believe that scent can transform how inviting a space feels.

“With more Americans opting for home gatherings, it’s clear that comfort, meaningful connections and subtle touches like a pleasant home fragrance or ambient lighting are becoming the new priorities for socializing,” Julia Mellberg, a spokesperson for Air Wick said. “These survey results highlight how hosting at home allows consumers to create an environment reflecting their personal style and be always inviting, no matter the occasion.”

The top reasons for hosting include birthdays (49%), dinner parties (44%), movie nights (37%), and game nights (35%). Regardless of the event, 74% of those surveyed said they have deeper, more meaningful conversations when theyre at home with friends than they would in a louder, more public setting.

The preferred home scent profiles this spring and summer? Fresh and clean led the list (64%), followed by warm and cozy (45%) and floral (36%).

But even with all the cozy vibes, hosting isnt without its stressors. Cleaning topped the list of worries (46%), followed by cooking (34%), making guests comfortable (26%), and the pressure to make everything perfect (25%).

Still, the benefits appear to outweigh the hassle. With the average “night in” lasting about three and a half hours, many hosts are embracing the opportunity to curate experiences tailored to their guests — complete with comfy seating, tidy spaces, and mood-enhancing touches like cozy lighting and the right soundtrack.

“Hosting at home is an exciting way to put your mark on a shared experience with loved ones,” adds Mellberg. “Whether youre hosting a small movie night or a big birthday celebration, the right home fragrance can turn any gathering into a memorable event.”

Staying in doesnt just save money — its become a preferred way to strengthen relationships, show hospitality, and make lasting memories right at home.