A Data Snapshot of Today's Relocation-Minded Buyer

ideal-LIVING's 2026 audience research provides a snapshot of where relocation-minded adults are considering moving, when they expect to move, what they want in their next community, and what factors influence their decisions.

Where Are Buyers Considering Moving?

53–63%
North Carolina & South Carolina

41–47%
Florida & Georgia

16–27%
Tennessee

17–24%
Mid-Atlantic

7%
International Destinations

Top takeaway: The Southeast continues to generate significant interest, led by the Carolinas.

When Are Buyers Planning to Move?

19–20%
Within 6–12 Months

35–36%
Within 1–2 Years

37%
More Than 2 Years

Top takeaway: Relocation is a long consideration cycle, with most respondents researching well before they expect to move.

What Is Delaying a Move?

44%
Unsure Where to Relocate

38%
Family Considerations

Top takeaway: Uncertainty about where to move is one of the most significant barriers to taking the next step.

What Lifestyle Are Buyers Looking For?

38%
Active & Social

22%
Resort-Style Living

18%
Private & Tranquil

Top takeaway: Active and social living leads lifestyle preferences, but buyers are looking for a range of experiences rather than one definition of the ideal community.

Which Community Features Matter Most?

65%
Walkability

58%
Social Opportunities

57%
Wellness

40%
Waterfront Features

#1 COMMUNITY FEATURE: WALKABILITY

Do Buyers Want 55+ Communities?

34%
Prefer 55+ Communities

22%
Prefer Multigenerational Communities

44%
No Community-Type Preference

Top takeaway: Nearly two-thirds of respondents do not specifically require a 55+ community.

What Size Home Are Buyers Looking For?

54%

Prefer approximately 1,500–2,500 square feet.

Top takeaway: More than half of respondents favor a moderate home size rather than simply seeking larger homes.

What Builds Trust When Evaluating a Community?

66%
Transparent Pricing

58%
Testimonials

51%
In-Person Tours

#1 TRUST FACTOR: TRANSPARENT PRICING

2026 Relocation Buyer at a Glance

What the Data Shows

Lifestyle Matters

Walkability, wellness, social connection, and waterfront access rank prominently among community considerations.

Buyers Want Options

Only 34% specifically prefer a 55+ community, while 66% either prefer multigenerational living or have no community-type preference.

The Search Starts Early

Most respondents are considering moves more than a year into the future.

Destination Uncertainty Creates Friction

44% cite uncertainty about where to relocate as a factor delaying their move.

Transparency Builds Confidence

At 66%, transparent pricing is the strongest trust factor measured.

About the Research

The 2026 ideal-LIVING Relocation Trends Report is based on ideal-LIVING audience research among relocation-minded consumers exploring destinations, communities, retirement, relocation, and second-home opportunities.

Results represent ideal-LIVING's audience and should not be interpreted as a nationally representative survey of all U.S. adults.

Source: ideal-LIVING 2026 audience research.