Did you ever walk into your living room and wonder, “How did I end up owning this many throw pillows?” Many people dream of a simpler, clutter-free space, but making it happen can make you feel overwhelming.
So, how do we really feel about our living spaces?
According to an Ipsos iSay survey*, over half of respondents (52%) describe their homes as organized. That’s promising! But 23% admit to feeling overwhelmed by clutter. Only 13% say they live minimally, which may suggest that minimalist living is more aspiration than reality for most.
Still, interest is definitely there. A combined 60% of people say they’re either very or somewhat interested in embracing a minimalist lifestyle. That’s a lot of folks curious about clearing out, slowing down, and simplifying. Just 13% said they weren’t interested at all, so the idea clearly has traction.
Minimalism isn’t about empty white rooms or giving up all your stuff. It’s about intentional living.
Let’s dig into what that looks like and how people are actually doing it.
With Ipsos iSay, you can contribute to impactful research like this and shape future trends with your insights and opinions. Plus, enjoy earning rewards as you make your voice heard. Haven't joined yet? Sign up today and be part of the conversation!
What Minimalist Living Really Offers
Here is what minimalist living really offers.
Financial & Environmental Perks
One of the most immediate rewards of minimalist living? Your wallet says thank you. According to the Ipsos iSay research, 61% of respondents shared that they spend less money simply by buying only what they truly need. That’s a strong case for owning fewer possessions and focusing on quality items instead of accumulating excess stuff.
Another 49% said they prefer to buy fewer but better items that last. This minimalist mindset reduces the need to constantly replace things, which also aligns with the minimalist principle of adding value to your life, not clutter.
And it’s not just about money, as 38% connect their minimalist approach to eco-friendly habits, like cutting down on waste and being more conscious of consumption. Living with less also means buying less, which has real benefits for the environment and encourages a shift away from consumerist culture.
Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
Minimalist living doesn’t just free up space in your home. It also clears out mental clutter.
Half of those asked said that reducing their possessions and decluttering helps them feel less stressed and anxious. It’s not surprising. When your surroundings are calmer, your mind often is too.
In fact, the topic of emotional strain has been central in many discussions lately. If you're curious about broader national sentiment, you might explore insights on who is feeling stress in America the most, which sheds light on stress across different demographics. These insights reveal how lifestyle changes like minimalism can have wider mental health implications.
Another 45% said they can concentrate better without visual clutter to distract them. This supports the idea that owning fewer possessions isn’t about sacrifice but also about creating mental space to focus on what matters.
Meanwhile, 36% reported that minimalist living helped them nurture better relationships. In fact, many are shifting away from status symbols and toward things that genuinely add meaning and joy simply by prioritizing experiences over stuff.
It’s a reminder that sometimes getting rid of the physical clutter in your life also jettisons the emotional weight that comes with it.
Practical Advantages
Minimalism also offers very real, down-to-earth benefits.
For 35% of people, becoming minimalist means they can travel or move more easily. With less to pack, store, or maintain, they enjoy a lighter, more flexible lifestyle, which is something that can be life-changing for anyone dreaming to travel the world or just downsize into a tiny house.
And then there’s the joy of creativity.
41% said they enjoy finding inventive ways to use what they already own, regardless of whether that’s repurposing a piece of furniture, trying out DIY hacks, or making do with what’s on hand. Embracing minimalism doesn’t mean giving things up. In reality, it means appreciating what we already have and finding new ways to make it work.
Favorite Tips for Maintaining a Minimalist Home
We asked our members to give us their favorite tips for maintaining a minimalist home. Here is what they had to say.
Daily Habits
When it comes to keeping a minimalist home, a little goes a long way. The top tip, chosen by 57% of Ipsos iSay respondents, is simple: spend just a few minutes tidying up each day.
This daily reset helps keep your space uncluttered and manageable, which proves that maintaining a simple life isn’t about grand gestures but more about consistent habits and being disciplined.
Another 52% take it one step further by immediately getting rid of junk mail.
This quick action keeps external clutter at bay and protects your space from slowly filling with paper you never intended to keep. It’s one of those ways to simplify your life that really pays off.
Decluttering Strategies
The minimalist journey often begins with getting honest about what you actually use. For 53% of participants, that means regularly reviewing and donating unused items. This practice clears out excess possessions and makes room for things we most value regardless of whether it’s toys and clothes, duplicate kitchen gadgets, or decor that no longer brings joy.
Meanwhile, 24% swear by the “one in, one out” rule, a smart safeguard to declutter your home gradually and mindfully. And 49% say having a designated place for everything is a must.
That kind of clarity to focus not only saves time but also brings a sense of control and calm to your minimalist space.
These methods are small acts of living intentionally, which eventually guide you to start living with fewer things that genuinely serve a purpose.
Smart Living Choices
Some strategies are about the smarter use of what you already have. For 26% of respondents, multifunctional furniture, like a bench with storage or a fold-out desk, is key to maximizing space and reducing clutter. It’s a cornerstone of minimalist design that blends practicality with aesthetic simplicity.
A streamlined wardrobe was cited by 45%, which emphasizes the appeal of less stuff and more versatility. Not only does this save time choosing what to wear, but it also keeps your physical space light and easy to manage.
To tackle paper clutter, 34% of respondents recommend going digital where possible. Think in terms of e-bills, digital to-do lists, and scanning important documents. Meanwhile, 38% say limiting decorative items helps reduce visual clutter, which creates a more peaceful and simple living environment.
Public interest in simplification also reflects a broader cultural shift. Tools like the Care-o-Meter help track public attention on trends like minimalist living. This interactive feature highlights which societal topics people truly care about, including sustainability, mental health, and lifestyle changes.
These choices are about getting rid of something that doesn’t serve you and creating space for self-improvement, life satisfaction, and the things that matter.
With Ipsos iSay, you can contribute to impactful research like this and shape future trends with your insights and opinions. Plus, enjoy earning rewards as you make your voice heard. Haven't joined yet? Sign up today and be part of the conversation!
Make Space for What Matters
Minimalist living isn’t about owning as little as possible. It’s also about making space for what truly matters. It’s not about deprivation, but about clarity. Let go of what no longer serves you to create room for more meaningful experiences, deeper relationships, and a stronger sense of self.
Take a moment to look around.
Are you surrounded by things that add value, or items that add stress?
Ask yourself: What am I holding onto that I no longer need?
Minimalism starts with small choices, a drawer cleared, a morning routine simplified, and a wardrobe trimmed to your favorites. These little actions can spark a powerful shift toward a more intentional, uncluttered life.
Explore your minimalist instincts and discover how simple actions can lead to significant insights. Check your Ipsos iSay dashboard regularly to engage in meaningful community conversations and continue making an impact.
*Source: Ipsos study conducted May 27 - 31, 2025, on 1,000 US Ipsos iSay members
