Where Is the Home Assistant configuration.yaml?
Home Assistant keeps configuration.yaml and its whole state in a config directory whose path depends on install type.
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Home Assistant's brain is a folder, not a database you cannot see. Configuration.yaml defines the setup, automations and scenes live beside it, and the hidden storage directory holds UI built entities and auth data.
The path is the only tricky part. HAOS mounts it at /config, containers use whatever host folder you mounted, and bare installs default to a .homeassistant folder in the user's home. Secrets.yaml sits in the same directory holding passwords in plain text, which is why the folder deserves backup and discretion together.
Where Home Assistant stores this, by platform
/config
configuration.yaml, automations.yaml, and secrets.yaml live here. Container installs map this to a host folder of your choosing; Core installs default to ~/.homeassistant.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my config directory for sure?
Open Settings > System > Repairs, the three dots menu, then System information. The configuration directory path prints there for every install type, which ends guesswork about mounts and volumes.
Can I split configuration across files?
Yes, with !include lines pulling in files like automations.yaml and secrets.yaml. Splitting keeps the main file readable, and the check configuration tool validates the merged result before reload.
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