Are Grandparents Moving To Be Closer to Their Grandkids?

Are Grandparents Moving To Be Closer to Their Grandkids?

During the pandemic, a lot of people made the difficult decision to keep a physical distance from their loved ones due to health concerns. Grandparents, in particular, were advised to avoid visiting their grandkids, especially when schools reopened. This precautionary measure aimed to minimize the risk of the grandchildren falling ill from potential exposure at school.

Now that the pandemic has passed, many grandparents want more than ever to be near their grandchildren again to make up for that lost time. But how are they getting that “Grandparent Wish?” The data tells us many are moving to make sure they’re getting more quality time.

Grandparents Are Moving To Be Near Loved Ones

Recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows people between the ages of 55 and 74 are moving farther (more than 100 miles) than any other age group (see graph below):

The average age of grandparents in the U.S. is 67 years. The logical leap is that at least some of the people who are moving the furthest are grandparents. But what’s causing them to move so far?

The same report from NAR shows the top reason people move is to be closer to loved ones (see graph below):

Based on this data, it’s fair to say many grandparents are getting their wish of more quality time with their grandchildren by moving to be closer to them. And after experiencing isolation and loneliness during the COVID pandemic, that’s an especially good thing.

If you’re a grandparent, you know how important your grandchildren are. And you may be willing to sell and move just to be closer by. As Vance Cariaga, a journalist at Go Bank Rates, explains:

“Never underestimate the power of grandchildren – especially when it comes to lifestyle and financial decisions. Recent data shows that many baby boomers are relocating further away from home than they used to so they can be closer to their grandbabies.”

Bottom Line

The data strongly indicates that grandparents are willingly relocating to be in closer proximity to their beloved grandchildren. If you happen to have grandchildren of your own, surely you can personally understand this sentiment. When you reach the moment of realizing that it is indeed the right time to be nearer to your dear ones, rest assured, we are here to facilitate that connection.