The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends
Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your family or wish your kids could spend more time with their grandparents. Clearly, a lot of other people feel the same way.
According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the desire to be near family and friends is the #1 reason people move (see graph below):
That’s because moving isn’t just about finding a new house – it’s about living a life where you’re surrounded by the people who matter most. Whether it’s catching up over weeknight dinners, watching your kids play with their cousins, or just knowing someone’s there when you need them, living near loved ones changes everything.
Let’s dive into why so many people are making this move and how it could be the best decision for you, too.
Living near family and friends is a universal motivator that cuts across all types of buyers, whether you’re buying your first home or making a big lifestyle change.
But it’s especially important to repeat buyers. Unlike first-time homebuyers, who may be more focused on looking in more affordable areas, repeat buyers often have more flexibility on where they live. Many Baby Boomers, for example, have built significant equity in their homes, giving them the freedom to prioritize what matters most – like retiring near their grandkids. As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, says:
“25% of Baby Boomer households plan to retire near their children and grandchildren . . .”
Making a move to be closer to friends and family is all about creating a meaningful next chapter in your life where loved ones are just around the corner.
But moving closer isn’t just a lifestyle choice – it’s a decision that offers real benefits:
At the end of the day, home isn’t just a place you live – it’s where your people are. Whether you’re looking to spend more quality time with family or enjoy the practical benefits of being closer to loved ones, the decision to move closer to those you care about is a deeply personal one.
If you’re thinking about making a change, let’s connect. Together, we can explore neighborhoods that bring you closer to the people and places you love most.
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