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

 

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.

Why Family Comes First

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.

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 it’s joining family dinners, going to weekend activities, or simply having someone nearby to talk to, these moments strengthen relationships and make 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 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.

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.

Why Relocating to a More Affordable Area is a Smart Decision

 

Why Moving to a More Affordable Area Makes Sense

Moving to a more affordable area could be the fresh start you need to get ahead financially. While some markets are certainly more affordable than others, know that working with a trusted real estate agent to find what fits your budget and your desired location – no matter where you want to be – is always the best plan. And with the rising cost of living, many people are rethinking where they live and looking for ways to cut expenses. If that sounds like you, here’s a great place to start (see visual below):

These states are well known for lower housing costs, reduced insurance premiums, and more budget-friendly daily living expenses – but they’re not the only places to find a hidden gem. If you're open to relocating, you might discover the savings you’re looking for.

Why Move to a Lower-Cost Area?

Life is getting more expensive by the day. From rising home prices to higher grocery bills, it feels like everything costs more than it used to. Housing, the largest expense for most people, has become especially costly.

In fact, according to data from Case-Shiller, home prices increased 3.9% from September 2023 to September 2024. And data from GOBankingRates shows insurance costs are up too, with home insurance premiums averaging $2,151 annually – a significant jump compared to recent years.

These rising costs can feel like a lot to handle. That’s why more people are considering lower-cost areas. An article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) says:

"With the past decade of rising home prices, buyers are looking for more affordable areas . . . As housing affordability continues to shape migration patterns, these areas may provide an opportunity . . . for those looking for more cost-effective alternatives to the nation’s larger, pricier metropolitan areas."

Lower-cost areas typically offer more affordable housing, less expensive home insurance, and reduced costs for daily living like groceries and gas. Transportation expenses and car insurance premiums also tend to be lower. For anyone feeling stretched thin, moving to a less expensive area can provide meaningful financial relief.

Planning Your Big Move

Whether it’s finding a home that fits your budget or cutting down on other expenses, making the right move in any market can bring significant financial relief. Of course, moving isn’t a decision to take lightly.

Whether you’re moving just a few towns over or to a completely different state, there’s a lot to consider. From job opportunities, to schools, to local amenities – it all has an impact on finding the right home for you.

This is where a knowledgeable local real estate agent can be your best resource. Not only can they help you navigate the housing market in your new or desired area, but they’ll also guide you to neighborhoods that balance affordability with your needs.

And don’t worry if none of the states on the affordability list seem like the right fit for you. An agent can still help you identify budget-friendly options wherever you need to be.

Bottom Line

If the rising cost of living has you feeling stuck, know that you have options. Moving to a more affordable area could be the fresh start you need to get ahead financially and improve your quality of life.

But don’t try to tackle the process alone. With the help of a real estate agent who knows the area, you’ll be well-prepared to make a move. When you’re ready to take the first step, let’s connect.