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

Have You Considered Moving Closer to Loved Ones?

Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe those long drives to visit family are wearing you out, or you wish your kids could spend more time with their grandparents. You’re not alone—many people are feeling 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):

This desire goes beyond just finding a new house. It’s about creating a home where you can enjoy life surrounded by the people who matter most. Whether it’s sharing weeknight dinners, watching your kids make memories with their cousins, or simply knowing someone is nearby when you need them, moving closer to loved ones can be life-changing.

If you’re exploring homes for sale or wondering, “How can I sell my house and relocate closer to family?”, here’s why this move might be the right step for you.

Why Family Comes First

Living near family and friends is a key motivator for people looking to buy or sell a home, particularly in areas like Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and Southeast Indiana. Whether you’re buying your first home or making a lifestyle change, this factor often takes center stage.

For repeat buyers, it’s even more significant. Unlike first-time buyers focused on affordability, repeat buyers often have more flexibility when choosing where to live. Baby Boomers, for example, are prioritizing proximity to their children and grandchildren as they make retirement decisions. Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, explains:

“25% of Baby Boomer households plan to retire near their children and grandchildren…”

Choosing to move closer to family is about more than convenience—it’s about creating a meaningful next chapter in your life where loved ones are just a short drive or walk away.

The Benefits of Living Near Loved Ones

Relocating closer to family doesn’t just improve your lifestyle—it offers practical and emotional benefits, too:

• Spending More Time Together
  Enjoy family dinners, weekend activities, and spontaneous visits that strengthen your relationships and enrich your daily life.
• Sharing Resources
  From childcare to household tools, living near family makes sharing resources easier and more convenient.
• Cutting Down on Travel
  Reduce hours spent on the road visiting family and enjoy more frequent, spontaneous get-togethers. This also provides peace of mind during emergencies.
• Being There for Big Moments
  Living nearby means you won’t miss life’s important milestones, from graduations to birthdays and everything in between.

Ready To Make Your Move?

At its core, a home isn’t just a place—it’s where your people are. Whether you’re looking to buy in Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, or Southeast Indiana, or need help navigating how to sell your house, moving closer to loved ones is a personal and rewarding choice.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to explore real estate options to be closer to your family, a local real estate agent is here to help. Together, we can find a home that puts you closer to the people and places you love most.