Boomers On The Move

Move over Florida. Make room, Carolinas. The Boomers are coming.  According to a 2010 Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey conducted by Harris Interactive for Pulte/Del Webb (to be fully released in March 2010), Boomers are about to redefine retirement living, just as they have in every previous lifestage. Unlike their parents, Boomers are less attracted by the palm trees and golf courses of Florida, and more interested in the smaller urban areas of the Carolinas. While Florida and Arizona are in the top ten, other surprising retirement destinations include Tennessee and Virginia.

Here are some insights that we found particularly interesting concerning what amenities Boomers are looking for in their retirement communities: onsite healthcare and transportation; home maintenance and repair, outdoor activity areas, e.g., jogging paths and bicycle trails.  And, as we’ve learned from other studies, it wouldn’t hurt to have a college or university nearby. 

By redefining retirement living, boomers will open the door for many products and services that will serve to complement their lifestyle choices. Communities that are attracting large numbers of boomers will have opportunities to capitalize on their presence and benefit from their spending power. As we see it, this generation is looking for more than just a round of golf and lunch at the clubhouse; they’re looking for a full and satisfying lifestyle.

– Posted by Tom Gorski