Is Gray the Color of Gentrification?

Gentrification is a hot topic in real estate. Some see it as a boost to the local economy, bringing in investment and revitalizing older neighborhoods. Others view it as a force that displaces longtime residents, making it harder for them to afford to stay in their own communities. But regardless of where you stand on the issue, there’s one interesting—and unexpected—sign that your neighborhood might be undergoing gentrification: the color gray.

Why Gray Houses Signal Change

A recent analysis by The Washington Post found that as neighborhoods gentrify, homes are increasingly painted shades of gray. In cities across the country, from Washington, D.C., to San Francisco and even here in Colorado, gray has become the go-to color for builders, house flippers, and new homeowners looking for a modern, updated look.

The Rise of Gray in Home Design

According to Sherwin-Williams’ 150-year color analysis, the 2010s marked the beginning of the “graying of America.” Now, in the 2020s, five of the top 10 exterior home colors are shades of gray. Interior designers say that deeper charcoal and warm grays are particularly in demand because they signal a newly renovated home. Adding, gray is the ‘pumpkin spice latte’ of home exteriors—it’s everywhere, it’s trendy, and whether people love it or roll their eyes at it, they’re still talking about it.

The Pros and Cons of Gentrification

Gentrification is a double-edged sword. On the plus side, it can lead to rising home values, benefiting homeowners who may want to sell for a profit. It can also bring in new businesses, updated infrastructure, and revitalized public spaces.

But for longtime residents, these changes can be disruptive. As property taxes and rents increase, many find themselves priced out of their own communities. The aesthetic shifts—like rows of identical gray homes—can also strip a neighborhood of its unique charm.

It’s a delicate line to walk—being respectful of the existing residents and history while also working to improve the community for the future.

What Does This Mean for Homeowners?

If you’re thinking of buying or selling in a changing neighborhood, it’s important to be aware of the trends shaping the market. While gray exteriors are popular now, real estate is always evolving, and what’s trendy today may not be tomorrow.

Looking to navigate Colorado’s shifting real estate landscape? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about market trends, I’d love to help. Let’s connect!