Why 70% of Americans Are Growing Their Own Food in 2025
Gardening has surged in popularity across the US as more people turn to homegrown food for savings and convenience. Over 20 million Americans picked up gardening for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, years later, the trend shows no signs of slowing down. In 2025, more than seven in ten Americans either started or kept planting food gardens. Many cited concerns about grocery store food safety and quality as a key reason. Nearly half of those surveyed expressed worries about the produce they buy.
Cost savings also drive the trend. The average food garden yields around $600 worth of produce each year, starting from an initial investment of roughly $70. With 38% of Americans aiming to cut food expenses, three in five plan to expand their gardens compared to last year.
The way people garden is changing too. Traditional rows of lettuce are being replaced by "snack gardens"—small, easy-to-manage plots filled with bite-sized fruits and vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, mini cucumbers, and strawberries now dominate these spaces. A single cherry tomato vine alone can produce hundreds of tomatoes in one season.
Beyond financial benefits, gardening offers health perks. It lowers anxiety, boosts mental well-being, and encourages higher fruit and vegetable consumption. These compact snack gardens fit into containers, raised beds, or tiny patches of land, making them accessible even in limited spaces. The shift towards home gardening appears lasting, with 71% of Americans planning to keep it up in 2025 and beyond. As more people prioritise affordability, health, and food safety, gardens—especially snack-sized ones—are becoming a staple in households nationwide.
