Buyers ages 61-79 remain the largest generational force in home buying, according to the National Association of REALTOR’s 2026 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report.
The report reveals that this age group makes up 42 percent of buyers (unchanged from last year) and 55 percent of sellers. Behind those numbers is a generation using its market power with purpose, making moves guided as much by lifestyle and relationships as by financial leverage.
What is driving all this activity within this age group? Many Boomers are making moves rooted in relationships and lifestyle. Proximity matters: 31 percent of Older Boomers (ages 71–79) and 23 percent of Younger Boomers (61–70) bought homes to be closer to friends and family.
Downsizing is also part of the story. Sixteen percent of Older Boomers said they purchased a home specifically to downsize, compared to 11 percent of Younger Boomers. Meanwhile, 15% of Younger Boomers bought homes with retirement in mind, more geared toward relaxation than the hustle and bustle of a daily commute. Flexibility is a hallmark of this life stage, and often housing equity makes that choice easier.
Military veterans make up a significant share of this group. Twenty-eight percent of Older Boomers and 18 percent of Younger Boomers served in the military at one time in their lives, with VA loans playing a key role in purchases: 16 percent of Older Boomers and 14 percent of Younger Boomers used VA financing.
Boomers are also more likely to own additional property. Six percent of both Younger and Older Boomers own one or more vacation homes (hello, beach playlists and “second home” sunsets). Senior-related housing is especially popular, with 23 percent of Older Boomers and 13 percent of Younger Boomers choosing 55-plus communities.
Financially, many Boomers are entering their “cash-is-king” era. Thirty-nine percent of Younger Boomers and 46 percent of Older Boomers paid all-cash for their homes. Among those who financed, more than half used proceeds from selling their prior residence for the down payment.
