Retirement housing trends show rising costs in some US towns

Housing market shifts are altering the landscape for retirees in the United States. In regions like Bend, Oregon, once-affordable destinations are seeing significant price increases driven by migration, limited housing supply, and demand from remote workers. Data indicates that the typical home price in Bend reached approximately $729,000 by August 2026, a substantial rise from the median listing price of roughly $455,000 in early 2020.

Conversely, some locations continue to offer advantages for those seeking small-town living. Mount Airy, North Carolina, remains a notable option, having been designated a Certified Retirement Community in 2014. The town participates in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, focusing on livability factors such as healthcare access, transportation, and outdoor spaces. Mount Airy features a regional hospital, an eight-mile greenway, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway, maintaining home values below the North Carolina state average.