Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is a Householder?

Content Type:
Glossary
Share Print

Householder Definition

In most cases, the person in whose name the home is owned or rented. Also called head of household. In some cases, the individual who was surveyed or interviewed. This person usually completes the U.S. Census Bureau Census Questionnaire.

In marketing research, householder refers to the individual within a household who is primarily responsible for making purchasing decisions and managing household expenses. In most cases, it is the person whose name the home is owned or rented. A householder also is referred to the head of household. This person typically holds a significant role in influencing buying choices and shaping consumer behavior.  Since the householder often influences purchasing decisions of an entire household, understanding their demographics, behaviors and preferences can guide the development of products, pricing, distribution strategies and promotional tactics that align with the householder's preferences. This leads to more successful outcomes in the competitive marketplace.

Who relies on householders?

Marketing and researchers, as well as advertisers, rely on the concept of the householder. Understanding a householder's preferences, needs and behaviors helps create targeted and effective marketing strategies that resonate with the key decision maker in a household.

Why should I care about householders?

Marketing professionals, product development and any business activity related to consumer goods or services seek to identify householder preferences. That information can be used to improve marketing campaigns, product designs and customer engagement strategies, all of which can lead to increased sales and brand loyalty.