Baby boomer parents are packing up and moving to follow their millennial children as they relocate to more affordable cities or chase new job opportunities across the country. Boomer parents are increasingly choosing to move nearby to build lives in fresh communities, and, more importantly, stay close to their grandchildren.
This movement is driven by more than just emotional ties:
Many baby boomers are retired or downsizing, making it the perfect time to re-evaluate where and how they want to live.
Being closer to their adult children (and often, grandchildren) offers an understandable, convenient reason to put down roots somewhere new.
For millennials, this shift brings its own set of benefits. Having parents nearby can offer valuable childcare help and deepen family bonds.
“Millennials continue to shape housing demand, particularly in markets where it’s growing,” said chief economist at Zonda Ali Wolf. “As they move and seek out affordability, job opportunities, and space for growing families, many baby boomer parents are following close behind.”
“Millennials remain the largest generation in the U.S., but their share of home purchases dropped to 29% in 2024, down from 38% the year prior, according to the National Association of Realtors,” Wolf said. “Boomers, by contrast, made up 42% of home purchases last year, often leveraging home equity and cash in today’s high-rate environment.”
For baby boomers considering a move, the key is finding a place that not only brings them closer to family but also supports their own lifestyle and needs. According to Zonda’s proprietary Baby Chaser Index, these 10 cities are offering the most appeal to millennials and baby boomers alike.
1. Orlando
“Orlando dethroned Austin, despite the Sunshine State’s ongoing economic and housing headwinds,” Wolf said. “Long known for its retirement appeal, Orlando’s rise in rankings was driven by accelerated growth among millennials.”
Orlando is a great destination for families, offering world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and the Orlando Science Center. Its warm, subtropical climate is perfect for year-round outdoor fun. The city hosts family-friendly events such as the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival and holiday celebrations. Nature spots like Leu Gardens and Lake Eola Park provide peaceful escapes, while diverse housing options make it easy for extended families to live close and stay connected.
2. Austin
“Almost half of this year’s Top 10 markets were in the Lone Star State,” Wolf said. “Austin, Dallas, and Houston all secured Top 5 positions, while San Antonio returned to the rankings at No. 10.”
Austin is a vibrant city with attractions that appeal to all ages, from the interactive Thinkery children’s museum to the scenic Zilker Park and refreshing Barton Springs Pool. Its mild climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round, especially for older adults looking to avoid harsh winters. The city hosts numerous events and festivals, such as Blues on the Green and cultural celebrations at Auditorium Shores, offering fun opportunities for grandparents and grandchildren to connect. Nature lovers can explore the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail and other nearby parks, perfect for walking, biking, and spending quality time together. Austin also provides a range of multigenerational living options, including spacious suburban homes and senior-friendly communities close to family amenities.
3. Raleigh
“Raleigh cracked the top three, fueled by a sharp uptick in its boomer migration rate, which nearly doubled year-over-year,” Wolf said.
Raleigh is a great spot for multigenerational families, with attractions like the Marbles Kids Museum, Pullen Park, and the Museum of Natural Sciences offering fun and educational experiences for all ages. Its mild, four-season climate is ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Family-friendly events like the International Festival and Artsplosure provide entertainment for both kids and grandparents. Green spaces such as JC Raulston Arboretum and Yates Mill Park offer peaceful places to explore nature together. Raleigh also features numerous housing options, making it easy for extended families to live close and stay connected.
4. Houston
Houston is full of family-friendly attractions like the Museum of Natural Science, Children's Museum, Houston Zoo, and Space Center Houston, offering fun for all ages. Its warm, subtropical climate is perfect for outdoor activities year-round. Events like the Houston Rodeo, Bayou City Art Festival, and concerts at Discovery Green provide great multigenerational entertainment. Parks such as Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou offer trails, picnics, and play areas. With affordable and diverse housing options, Houston makes it easy for extended families to stay close and connected.
5. Dallas
Dallas offers multigenerational fun with attractions like the Perot Museum, Dallas Zoo, and Klyde Warren Park. Its mild climate is ideal for year-round outdoor activities. Family events like the State Fair of Texas and seasonal festivals provide great bonding opportunities. Nature spots such as White Rock Lake and the Dallas Arboretum offer peaceful places to explore. The city also has diverse housing options, including suburban homes and active adult communities, close to schools and amenities.
6. Jacksonville
Jacksonville offers family-friendly attractions like the zoo, MOSH museum, and Adventure Landing water park. Its mild climate is perfect for year-round outdoor activities. Events such as the Jazz Festival and holiday boat parades provide fun for all ages. With vast parks, beaches, and nature preserves, there are many spots for outdoor bonding. Affordable housing and active adult communities make Jacksonville ideal for multigenerational living.
7. Boise
Boise offers a variety of fun and educational attractions for all ages, including the Discovery Center of Idaho, Zoo Boise, the Boise Art Museum, and interactive parks. Its distinct seasons make it ideal for year-round outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing, appealing to both active grandparents and adventurous kids. Family-friendly events such as the Treefort Music Fest, Boise Farmers Market, and Festival of Trees create lively opportunities for togetherness. There are lots of greenbelt trails along the Boise River: safe, scenic spots for walks, bike rides, and picnics. Boise also provides diverse housing options, from quiet suburban neighborhoods to senior-friendly communities close to schools, healthcare, and family amenities.
8. Charlotte
Charlotte offers attractions like Discovery Place Science, the Carolina Raptor Center, and Carowinds amusement park for all ages. Its mild climate supports year-round outdoor activities and family-friendly events like the Christmas Village and Festival in the Park. With plenty of parks and greenways, families can enjoy walking, biking, and picnics. The city also provides diverse housing options, including suburban and senior living communities, ideal for multigenerational families.
9. Charleston
“Charleston slipped seven positions to No. 9 as millennial growth remained consistent, but boomer migration slowed,” Wolf said.
Charleston offers a variety of engaging and educational attractions for all ages, including the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Museum, Waterfront Park, and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Its warm, humid subtropical climate brings mild winters and plenty of sunny days, great for year-round outdoor activities with grandparents and grandchildren. The city hosts family-friendly events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Food + Wine Festival, and seasonal holiday celebrations that welcome all generations. Beautiful outdoor spots like James Island County Park, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach provide perfect places for walking, picnicking, beachcombing, and fun. Charleston also offers a mix of historic homes, suburban neighborhoods, and age-friendly communities, making it easy for extended families to live nearby and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.
10. San Antonio
San Antonio offers a wide range of fun and educational attractions for all ages, including the San Antonio Zoo, the DoSeum children’s museum, the Alamo, and SeaWorld. Its mild winters and hot summers make it ideal for year-round outdoor activities, perfect for grandparents and grandchildren who enjoy spending time outside. The city hosts lively, family-friendly events like Fiesta San Antonio, the Holiday River Parade, and Dia de los Muertos celebrations that connect generations. Beautiful outdoor spots such as the San Antonio River Walk, Brackenridge Park, and Government Canyon State Natural Area provide great places for walking, picnicking, and exploring nature together. San Antonio also offers affordable housing, spacious suburban neighborhoods, and senior-friendly communities that support close family connections across generations.
Bottom line: While numerous cities across the U.S. can foster family connections, these 10 stand out for grandparents following their kids and grandkids. If you’re a millennial looking for a place to create deeper family connections, or a grandparent who wants to stay near your grandkids, NewHomeSource’s listings are a great place to start.
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