The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

Have you ever considered moving to be closer to loved ones? Maybe you’re tired of long drives or want your kids to 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):

Primary Reason For Selling Previous Home - KM Realty Group LLCMoving is about more than just a new house; it’s about being close to the people who matter most. Whether it’s family dinners, kids playing together, or having support nearby, living near loved ones makes a big difference.

Let’s dive into why so many people are making this move and how it could be the best decision for you, too.

Why Family Comes First

Living near family and friends is a common motivator for all buyers, whether it’s your first home or a major lifestyle change.

But it’s especially important to repeat buyers. Repeat buyers, like Baby Boomers, have more flexibility in choosing where to live, often prioritizing retirement near grandkids. As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zondasays:

“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.

The Benefits of Living Near Loved Ones

But moving closer isn’t just a lifestyle choice – it’s a decision that offers real benefits:

  1. Spending More Time Together: whether through family dinners, weekend activities, or just being nearby, strengthens relationships and makes life more fulfilling.
  2. Sharing Resources: Living close to family can provide practical advantages, too – like sharing childcare, tools, or household items.
  3. Cutting Down on Travel: Instead of spending hours on the road to spend time together, you can enjoy more spontaneous visits. This not only enhances your quality of life, but it also provides peace of mind in case of emergencies.
  4. Being There for Big Moments: It also offers both emotional and practical support during life’s milestones. From graduations to tough times, being close to loved ones helps you feel connected and cared for.

Ready To Make Your Move?

At the end of the day, home isn’t just a place you live – it’s where your people are. Whether it’s for more quality time or practical benefits, moving closer to loved ones is a deeply personal decision.

Bottom Line

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.