The #1 Reason People Move: Strengthening Ties with Family and Friends

Have you ever considered packing up and relocating just to be closer to the people who make your life feel full? Maybe you’re tired of video calls substituting for real hugs or long car rides cutting into quality time. The truth is, many people feel the same way.

According to recent findings from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the top reason people move is to be near family and friends. Moving is more than just finding a new place to live—it’s about building a life where you’re surrounded by the people who matter most. Whether it’s catching up over weeknight dinners, watching your kids bond with their cousins, or having someone nearby in times of need, being close to loved ones can profoundly impact your happiness and quality of life.

Let’s explore why this is the #1 reason people move and how making this choice might be the best decision for you too.

Why Living Near Loved Ones Matters

Moving closer to family and friends resonates across all types of homebuyers and renters. For first-time homebuyers, affordability may take priority, but for repeat buyers, the focus often shifts to proximity to loved ones. Baby Boomers, for example, frequently prioritize being near their children and grandchildren. As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, explains:

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

This decision is deeply rooted in the desire to create a meaningful next chapter of life—a chapter defined by connection, support, and shared experiences.

The Benefits of Moving Closer to Family

Relocating to be near loved ones isn’t just an emotional decision; it also brings tangible benefits:

1. Quality Time, Anytime Living close makes it easier to enjoy everyday moments together—family dinners, weekend outings, and those impromptu coffee catch-ups that strengthen relationships.
2. Shared Resources Whether it’s borrowing tools, splitting childcare responsibilities, or swapping recipes, living nearby makes it easier to share resources and lighten the load for everyone.
3. Less Travel, More Spontaneity Imagine replacing long road trips or expensive flights with quick visits and unplanned gatherings. This change enhances your quality of life and provides peace of mind, especially in emergencies.
4. Support During Milestones From celebrating birthdays and graduations to navigating life’s challenges, being close means you can show up for the big moments—and even the small ones—in a way that truly matters.

Moving Closer to Family: Is It Right for You?

Making the decision to move closer to family or friends is highly personal. It requires careful consideration of practical factors, like job opportunities, housing costs, and schools (if you have children). It also involves reflecting on the emotional impact of being closer to—or farther from—your support system.

For many, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Home is more than four walls; it’s the people you share it with and the connections that make life richer.

How to Make Your Move

If you’re thinking about making a change, working with a local real estate agent can help you explore neighborhoods that bring you closer to the people and places you love most. They can guide you through the process, ensuring that your new home supports the lifestyle you’re envisioning.

Bottom Line

At its core, moving closer to family and friends is about building a life filled with love, connection, and support. Whether it’s to strengthen relationships, share resources, or simply be there for life’s milestones, relocating for the people who matter most can be a transformative decision. If you’re ready to take the next step, a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you make it happen, bringing you one step closer to a life surrounded by loved ones.

About Jamaica Homes

Jamaica Homes is an online real estate portal dedicated to the Jamaican property market. It offers a platform for consumers to search for properties available for sale or rent and enables agents to advertise their listings. The website features properties from new home developers, letting agents, and estate agents, providing a comprehensive resource for those interested in Jamaican real estate.?

Beyond property listings, Jamaica Homes provides various resources to assist users in their real estate journey. These include a mortgage calculator, a blog with insights into the Jamaican real estate market, and a user guide to navigate the platform effectively. The portal also emphasizes community-building and accessibility, aiming to facilitate seamless transitions for clients relocating domestically or internationally.?

Jamaica Homes maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, where they share inspiration, ideas, and updates related to Jamaican real estate.?

For direct inquiries, individuals can contact Jamaica Homes via email at?[email protected].?