Single households are more diverse than many realize. Some are younger adults delaying marriage or choosing independence earlier in life. Others are middle-aged individuals who are divorced, single parents whose children have moved out, or people following nontraditional life paths. Still others are older adults who are widowed or choosing to age in place.
Data from the U.S. Census Bureau highlights just how broad this group has become. In 2024, the average age of adults living alone was 57. Men living alone tended to be younger, with an average age of 52.9, while women were notably older at 60.5. These differences often reflect longer life expectancy among women and the likelihood of living alone later in life.
Why Location Can Tell a Different Story
Where you live can also influence what single living looks like. In some markets, the average age of people living alone skews younger. For example, in Austin, the average age of a single person household is 47.3, reflecting a workforce-driven, fast-growing environment.
In other areas, the opposite is true. In Naples, the average age reaches 68.2, pointing to a market shaped by retirees and those focused on aging in place.
Finding the Right Fit for You
As the number of people living alone continues to grow, the housing market is offering more options tailored to different ages and stages of life. “Whether you are buying your first home or looking for a simpler space that fits your next chapter, there are more choices than ever before and, importantly, you won’t be alone in buying as a single household,” said Ali Wolf, chief economist for NewHomeSource.
That said, if you’re a single buyer, the key is to focus on what matters most to you right now while keeping an eye on how your needs may evolve. In a market that is becoming increasingly diverse in terms of product offerings and household structure, the right home is one that supports your lifestyle today and adapts with you over time.
