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

Have you ever dreamed of packing up and relocating to be near the people who matter most in your life? Maybe you're tired of long car rides just to visit your family or wish your kids could grow up spending more time with their grandparents. It turns out, you’re not alone in these feelings.

According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number one reason people move is to be closer to family and friends. It's clear that the desire to live near those we love is a driving force behind many of life's big decisions. After all, a home isn’t just four walls and a roof; it’s a place where you’re surrounded by the people who make life meaningful.

So why is this such a powerful motivator? Let’s dive into why so many people are choosing to move closer to loved ones and how this could be the best decision you make, too.

The Power of Family: Why Being Close Matters

Let’s be honest—family and friends are at the core of what makes life feel rich and rewarding. Living near them isn’t just about convenience; it’s about nurturing deeper relationships and creating memories that last. For many people, the ability to be close to loved ones is a key factor when deciding where to live.

This isn't just true for first-time homebuyers either. In fact, many repeat buyers are moving specifically to be closer to their children, grandchildren, or friends. According to experts, the flexibility that comes with owning more significant equity in a home is allowing people to make choices that prioritize emotional connections over financial constraints.

In particular, Baby Boomers are leading the charge. Around 25% of Baby Boomer households plan to retire near their children and grandchildren. It’s not just about the location—it's about building a life where family ties are central. Imagine having your grandkids just a few blocks away instead of across the country. It’s no wonder so many people are making this choice.

The Benefits of Living Near Loved Ones

When you think about moving closer to family and friends, it’s easy to focus on the emotional rewards. But there are plenty of practical benefits as well. Here are just a few reasons why moving closer to loved ones can significantly improve your life:

1. More Time Together

One of the greatest gifts of living near family and friends is the ability to spend more time with them. Whether it’s joining Sunday dinners, attending school plays, or just chatting over a cup of coffee, these shared moments strengthen bonds and make your life more fulfilling. Being able to pop over for a quick visit instead of planning long-distance trips turns everyday moments into something much more special.

2. Practical Support and Resource Sharing

Let’s face it—life gets busy, and sometimes you need an extra set of hands. Living near family can offer a level of practical support that’s hard to replicate from afar. Need help with childcare? Want to borrow a tool for a home project? Having loved ones nearby makes these everyday favors easier and more frequent. Plus, sharing resources like carpooling or babysitting can make life more affordable and less stressful.

3. Less Travel, More Freedom

How much time do you spend each year on the road just to visit family or friends? Whether it’s hours spent traveling for holidays or weekend getaways, constant travel can become exhausting and time-consuming. By moving closer, you free up that time for more meaningful experiences. You can enjoy impromptu visits or spontaneous family gatherings, turning what was once a rare occasion into something that happens more naturally.

4. Being There for Life's Big Moments

Life is full of milestones—weddings, graduations, birthdays, and even tough times when you need a shoulder to lean on. When you live close to family and friends, you're not only there for the good times but also the challenging moments. Being able to lend a hand when someone needs help or share in their joys is an irreplaceable benefit of proximity. It creates a deep sense of connection and emotional fulfillment that’s hard to match.

The Emotional and Practical Impact of Moving for Family

Of course, moving to be closer to loved ones isn’t just a decision based on practicality—it’s an emotional one as well. Home is where your heart is, and for many, that means being near the people who support and enrich your life. Whether it’s your parents, siblings, best friends, or even extended family, being close to those you love is a source of comfort, joy, and stability.

Beyond that, living near family allows for more shared experiences. Kids get to grow up with their cousins, and you can create a stronger family unit that celebrates birthdays together, helps each other through life’s struggles, and supports one another in ways that distance often hinders.

But it’s not just about emotional fulfillment—being near family and friends can improve your overall well-being. Studies have shown that people who live near their loved ones tend to have lower stress levels and better mental health because of the close support network. It's a win-win for both emotional and physical health.

Is Moving for Family the Right Choice for You?

Now that we’ve explored the reasons why living near family and friends can be life-changing, you might be asking yourself: Is this the right choice for me? Moving to be closer to those you care about is a deeply personal decision, and it’s important to weigh both the emotional and practical factors involved.

If you're considering making the move, here are a few things to think about:

• Job and Financial Considerations: Will the move impact your job? Are there financial constraints that might make relocating difficult? It’s important to make sure that the move works with your professional and financial goals.

• Lifestyle Preferences: Think about the lifestyle changes the move will bring. Do you want to live in a bustling city close to family, or would a quiet suburban neighborhood be a better fit? Consider your overall lifestyle preferences and how they align with being near loved ones.

• Long-Term Goals: Are you moving with the intention of staying long-term? Moving closer to family can be a great solution, but it’s important to envision how this move fits into your broader life plan. Will this decision help you achieve your personal and family goals?

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re seriously considering moving to be closer to family, there’s no time like the present to start planning. This decision is a big one, but it’s also one that can significantly improve your quality of life. Whether you’re looking for a smaller home to retire in or a more convenient location to raise your children, the possibilities are endless when you have the support of your loved ones nearby.

At the end of the day, home is more than just where you live—it’s about who you share it with. If you're ready to take the next step and explore neighborhoods that bring you closer to the people and places you love, let's connect.

Together, we can find a home that brings you closer to family, offering both the emotional satisfaction and practical benefits of living near those who mean the most to you.

Bottom Line

The decision to move closer to family and friends is often fueled by a deep desire to strengthen relationships and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking more time together, practical support, or simply the joy of being near loved ones, this choice can bring immeasurable value to your life. So, if you’re thinking about making a move, take a step toward being closer to those who matter most—you won’t regret it. Let’s start this exciting journey together.