NIC expects demand for active adult rental communities to continue to grow in 2026. The property type appeals to younger or healthier older adults who are ready to downsize into maintenance-free communities with resort-like amenities but who do not yet need or want the care and services provided in traditional senior housing.
Inflation pressures will continue to be headwinds to new development as well as to consumers. Active adult rental communities’ median average monthly rent of roughly $2,000 may help serve middle income older adults along with luxury options for more affluent residents.
Demand for “wellness” is not yet waning and will likely continue to be the focus of lifestyle and engagement programming in 2026. The evolution of aging, longevity, and disease prevention technology – combined with resident-led programming – will differentiate active adult communities from conventional multifamily properties.
With stabilized occupancy rates near 96%, active adult communities are poised for another year of positive performance in 2026.