The Best-Selling American Paint Colors Aren't White Or Gray, According To Behr

Gray and white were popular home interiors colors for much of the early 2000s. It was a no brainer — these colors are exceptionally versatile. They made it easy to transition from one interior style to another without needing to paint every time. However, white and gray lack the soul of more expressive, inspiring paint color ideas. What is the solution for a homeowner who is craving more warmth but doesn't want to compromise on versatility? It seems all signs point to beige and cream leading the pack as the preferred neutral paint colors.

Based on analyzed data from 2025, paint industry leader Behr shared with Real Simple that beige and cream are the best-selling colors with Americans. These neutral shades are great options. While they still serve as a suitable backdrop for just about any interior design style, these hues aren't as stark and cold. Beige and cream carry a natural warmth, thanks to their undertones. Each shade will be different, but cream and beige generally have undertones such as yellow or peach. Meanwhile, most white and gray paint colors feature cool undertones that come across as a bit sterile.

It makes sense that beige and cream are pulling ahead of white and gray. Modern designs are more dimensional and alive, with the long held tradition of minimalism giving way to more nature-inspired, cozy designs defined by depth and personality. Homeowners are also craving more warmth and softness in general, and beige and cream paints offer the versatility of white and gray while maintaining a far more inviting, earthy ambiance.

When selecting a cream or beige, you should carefully consider the undertone you're working with. While all of these paint colors will be warm to an extent, some shades are warmer than others. You'll still need to factor in these undertones to create a cohesive color palette in your home.

If you're going for a warmer beige or cream with golden undertones, you should lean into this color family. For instance, soft purple, pink, and brown look great alongside warm neutrals and are some color combinations that will transform your home's interior. Wood, unlacquered brass, and linen are also lovely decor accents to this palette. Cooler beiges and creams can actually pair nicely with white and light gray or blue and black. You may want to go warmer or cooler based on the room you're painting too. A bedroom or living room may be more suited for warmer tones, while kitchens or bathrooms may benefit from a cooler, more uplifting shade. 

Before you commit to any color, it's always a good idea to swatch it on your walls first. This gives you the opportunity to see how it will dry down and how the lighting in your home will affect the shade. Most home improvement stores will have smaller paint sample sizes for this very purpose. If you're stuck between a few different colors, feel free to swatch them side-by-side so you can easily compare them. Whatever beige or cream color you decide on, you're setting yourself up to enjoy a beautiful neutral backdrop that will help foster a more cozy, welcoming home!