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More than 1.2 million UK homeowners aged 55 and over have abandoned plans to move in the past two years, according to new research by the HomeOwners Alliance.
Despite initially considering a move, one in seven in this age group (14%) ultimately stayed put – largely due to barriers that disproportionately affect older homeowners.
The study reveals that while many over-55s are interested in downsizing or relocating, a mix of emotional, practical, and market-driven challenges is preventing them from taking the plunge. The stress and upheaval of moving, a shortage of suitable homes, and a reluctance to leave established communities are among the top reasons.
Compared to the general homeowner population, older homeowners are significantly more likely to cite these issues:
+ Stress of moving: 41% of 55+ homeowners vs 35% overall
+ Lack of suitable homes: 34% vs 27%
+ Not wanting to leave friends or neighbours: 23% vs 16%
One of the biggest sticking points is the lack of bungalows – a preferred housing type for many in this age group. 38% of over-55s say a bungalow would be their ideal next home, making it the most sought-after property style among older movers.
However, supply is severely lacking. According to NHBC figures, bungalows accounted for 11% of new homes in 1990, but just 1% in 2024, as developers continue to prioritise higher-density housing.
Interestingly, while house prices and moving costs remain common concerns, they appear to be less of a deterrent for older homeowners than for the wider population:
+ House prices: 23% of older homeowners vs 35% overall
+ Moving costs: 24% vs 28%
Instead, it’s the emotional and lifestyle factors—the stress, the lack of fit-for-purpose homes, and the desire to remain in familiar surroundings—that are proving the biggest blockers.
The findings underscore a pressing need for more age-appropriate housing – particularly single-storey homes in established communities. Without suitable options, a growing number of older homeowners may find themselves “stuck” in homes that no longer meet their needs, limiting mobility across the wider property market.
Paula Higgins, CEO of HomeOwners Alliance commented: “Our research shows that too many older homeowners feel stuck in homes that no longer work for them but struggle to find an appropriate alternative. There is a huge demand for bungalows but hardly any get built anymore. NHBC data shows that they made up 11% of new home registrations in 1990, but just 1% in 2024.
“With the UK’s rapidly aging population, we hope the government’s long-promised housing strategy looks at a
better range of retirement housing, including single-storey solutions.
“No one wants to make their life more stressful and as we age the prospect of a house move can be overwhelming. Buying and selling a home is too uncertain, takes too long, and is too expensive. In the meantime, here at the HomeOwners Alliance, we’ll continue to provide all the advice and services together in one place to simplify home moves so people can cut costs, avoid the pitfalls, and move with confidence.”
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