Seniors 55+ Downsizing /On September 23, 2026

Downsizing options for seniors: Planning your next move

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A couple moving boxes together As your housing needs change, there are several downsizing options to consider. But before making a decision, think about what you want the next stage of life to look like. Your finances, lifestyle, health, proximity to family and home maintenance needs can all play a role in determining which option is right for you.

Some of the most common options we’ll cover include:

Aging in place
Buying or renting a smaller home
55+ communities
Independent living
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (Life Plan Communities)
Assisted living

Aging in place: Staying in your home as you get older

Aging in place allows you to continue enjoying the comfort of your home and community while making adjustments that can make everyday life easier. For many older adults, aging in place is their first choice. According to AARP’s 2024 Home and Community Preferences Survey, 75% of adults 50 and older said they want to remain in their current homes as they age. However, 44% believe they will eventually have to relocate.
A wheelchair ramp installed at a house
Before deciding to stay in your current home long term, consider:

Accessibility: Will stairs, narrow hallways or bathrooms become difficult to navigate?
Maintenance: Can you continue managing repairs and yard work?
Home modifications: Could changes such as grab bars, improved lighting, a walk-in shower or first-floor bedroom make the home safer and easier to navigate?
Ongoing costs: Does staying in the home make sense financially when you factor in maintenance, utilities, taxes and potential modifications?
Additional help: Will you eventually need assistance with cleaning, lawn care, transportation or medical needs?

If maintaining or modifying your current home isn’t the best fit for your future needs, it may be worth exploring a smaller, lower-maintenance home instead.

Buying vs. renting a smaller home during retirement

Moving to a smaller home allows you to maintain your independence while potentially reducing some of the responsibilities and upkeep that come with a larger property. Your options may include a smaller single-family home, townhouse or condo, depending on how much space and maintenance you want.

One of the first decisions to make is whether to buy or rent. Buying may be appealing if you plan to stay long term, want to continue building equity and prefer the freedom that comes with owning your home. Renting allows you to put more of the equity from the sale of your current home toward retirement, travel and other financial goals instead of another home purchase. It can also mean fewer home and yard work responsibilities.

Whether you choose to buy or rent a home, think about:

Layout: A single-level home with an open floor plan offers easier mobility.
Accessibility: Are there stairs inside or outside, narrow hallways or small bathrooms that could be difficult to navigate?
Maintenance: How much home and yard maintenance do you want to take on? Is the home in good condition?
Location: How close do you want to be to family, friends, healthcare, shopping and other activities?
Community: Are you looking for a neighborhood with social opportunities or a quiet escape?
Cost: Consider the mortgage or rent, property taxes, utilities, HOA or condo fees, maintenance costs and how expenses could change over time.

What to know about moving to a 55+ community

Seniors sitting together at a table If you want an independent space with limited maintenance, consider a 55+ community. These age-restricted communities are designed with older adults in mind and may include single-family homes, townhouses, condos or rental properties.

Services often include lawn care and exterior home maintenance. Many 55+ communities also emphasize an active and social lifestyle. Amenities vary, but may include:

Recreation: Swimming pools, fitness centers, racquet sports, golf courses and shuffleboard courts.
Clubs and activities: Fitness classes, game nights, bars and restaurants, social clubs and organized events.
Accessible home designs: Single-level floor plans, wider doorways, step-free entrances and other features that make it easier to get around your home as you get older.
Added security: Some communities offer gated entrances with security guards.

Keep in mind that amenities, services and maintenance responsibilities vary by community. Also, 55+ communities do not provide personal or medical care. Before choosing one, look closely at HOA or community fees, what those fees cover and any community rules or restrictions.

Independent living communities combine freedom with convenience

Independent living may sound similar to a 55+ community, but there are some important distinctions. While 55+ communities typically function more like traditional neighborhoods where residents may own or rent their homes, independent living communities are typically rental-based and often include more services as part of the monthly cost.

Residents typically have their own apartment or other private living space. Depending on the community, services and amenities may include:

Meals: Dining plans or on-site restaurants can take some or all of the work out of cooking.
Housekeeping: Regular cleaning services allow you to spend less time maintaining your living space.
Transportation: Scheduled transportation may be available for shopping, appointments and other activities.
Maintenance: The community generally handles home repairs, landscaping and other property maintenance.
Activities and amenities: Fitness programs, social events, clubs and shared spaces allow you to stay active and meet other residents.

If you’re looking for the conveniences of independent living but also want to plan for how your needs may change in the future, a Continuing Care Retirement Community is another option to consider.

How Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) work

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), also known as a Life Plan Community, combines multiple levels of senior living and care within one community.
A nurse helping a lady in her home
Levels of care may include:

Independent living: For residents who can live independently but want access to community amenities and services.
Assisted living: Provides additional support with everyday activities while allowing residents to maintain as much independence as possible.
Memory care: Specialized care and support for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Skilled nursing care: Around-the-clock nursing care for residents with more significant medical needs.

A resident may initially move into independent living and transition to a higher level of care if their needs change. This can make a CCRC appealing to someone who wants to plan ahead without potentially having to move to an entirely different community later in life.

Costs can vary considerably from one community to another. Some require a substantial entrance fee in addition to monthly fees, while others use different rental or contract arrangements. Before making a commitment, make sure you understand the entrance and monthly fees, what your contract covers and how your costs may change if you eventually need a higher level of care.

Assisted living provides support while encouraging independence

Assisted living may be appropriate when living completely independently has become difficult but around-the-clock skilled nursing care isn’t necessary.

Residents generally have their own room or apartment while receiving assistance based on their individual needs. Services may include:

Meals: Dining services provide regular meals without the need to shop, cook or clean up.
Housekeeping: Staff may handle cleaning, laundry and other household tasks.
Transportation: Scheduled transportation may be available for medical appointments, shopping and other outings.
Medication management: Staff can help residents manage and take medications as prescribed.
Personal care: Assistance may be available for bathing, dressing and grooming.
Social and recreational activities: Organized programs allow you to stay active and connect with other residents.

Costs vary based on the community, location, accommodations and level of assistance needed. When comparing communities, make sure you understand the base monthly rate, what’s included and which services may carry additional charges.

Choosing the right downsizing option for you

With so many choices, deciding what comes next can feel overwhelming. Think about the lifestyle you want now and what may make life easier as you get older.

Whether you stay in the home you love, move somewhere smaller or choose a community with additional services and support, the goal is to find an option that works for your lifestyle.

Ready to explore your next move? Download our free Downsizing Resource Guide for helpful information and guidance to help you navigate the downsizing process.

Download a list of local communities and downsizing services in your area:

Nikko Stuart

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