To accelerate the transition in the heating sector, barriers and drivers need to be addressed. The analysis of this paper relies on an online survey in the residential sector and investigates influencing factors and perceptions of heating options in eleven EU member states. Further, it employs a case study in the industrial sector. The results reveal that in the residential sector ratings, as well as decisions to adopt heat pumps and district heating, are primarily influenced by technical or financial constraints, followed by self-centered aspects, trust, attitudes and personal interests. Conversely, the industrial sector is predominantly driven by economic considerations, regulations, and corporate strategies.