Aging Population Will Free Up Over 13.9 Million Homes in Next Decade
Realtor.com® research indicates that over the next decade, aging Baby Boomers and members of the Silent Generation will relinquish approximately 13.9 million homes—up by 74% compared to the last ten years. This generational shift is expected to gradually increase housing supply but may not immediately resolve broader affordability issues or address shortages in entry-level markets. The majority of these homes are family-sized or larger, with only a small fraction being starter homes suitable for first-time buyers. The transition will accelerate over time and reach its peak after 2036 as Baby Boomers become the primary source of home turnover. While this trend offers relief in certain segments, it is unlikely to fully close the current housing gap on its own. Experts note that while the scale of this shift is significant compared to previous decades, the impact will be gradual and unevenly distributed across different types of homes and regions.
Topics: Baby Boomers first-time buyers housing supply market inventory Silent Generation