This review article presents a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in sound insulating materials, focusing on the characterization of material types and their properties from 2015 to 2024. It examined the application of various natural and synthetic materials, including fibrous, porous, composite, polymeric, and advanced materials, in architectural and environmental acoustics. A systematic search in the Scopus database identified relevant articles that were classified according to the material types and their inherent properties. The analysis covered key aspects such as thermal, mechanical, chemical, and physical characteristics, and their impact on sound insulation performance. Unlike previous studies that focused on classic materials or single aspects, this review used analytical and database tools to identify recent research trends. This review highlights the development of advanced and sustainable materials for noise reduction that address challenges in both building acoustics and environmental sound pollution.