To rent or to buy? A study from AARP and the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University weights the cost and benefits of each scenario for Americans 65 and older.
A new study recently delivered new insight into the most desirable living configurations for older Americans, comparing the costs and benefits of homeownership and living in rental properties.
"For Americans over age 65, rentals are usually the most safe, secure, affordable housing option that enhances independence and community engagement, according to a measure of neighborhood livability by AARP and the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University," reports Sarah Paynter.
According to the study, Americans older than 65 aren't likely to own homes in neighborhoods in close proximity to goods, services, and social stimulation. Given the population's tendency to have mobility-related difficulties, living far away from shopping, recreation, and other necessities can be difficult. Living in that house on the hill can come at a cost for seniors in the U.S.
"Homeowners over the age of 65, tended to live in less livable locations, but they did tend to have better air and water quality, health care, internet access, social engagement opportunities and job opportunities than renters," notes Paynter.
FULL STORY: Renting may be the best option for seniors, study finds
Feds Award Senior Housing Grants; Experts Say More is Needed
A federal infusion of cash could help create more affordable housing for seniors, but many still struggle to afford housing.
Report Highlights Housing Insecurity Among Seniors
Older Americans face rising mortgage debt, high costs for medical care and assistance, and a dearth of accessible housing.
Report: Housing Costs a Growing Concern for Older Adults
A growing number of older Americans are finding it difficult to downsize to smaller, more accessible, and more affordable homes while staying in their communities.
Pennsylvania Mall Conversion Bill Passes House
If passed, the bill would promote the adaptive reuse of defunct commercial buildings.
World's Largest Wildlife Overpass In the Works in Los Angeles County
Caltrans will soon close half of the 101 Freeway in order to continue construction of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing near Agoura Hills in Los Angeles County.
U.S. Supreme Court: California's Impact Fees May Violate Takings Clause
A California property owner took El Dorado County to state court after paying a traffic impact fee he felt was exorbitant. He lost in trial court, appellate court, and the California Supreme Court denied review. Then the U.S. Supreme Court acted.
California Grid Runs on 100% Renewable Energy for Over 9 Hours
The state’s energy grid was entirely powered by clean energy for some portion of the day on 37 out of the last 45 days.
New Forecasting Tool Aims to Reduce Heat-Related Deaths
Two federal agencies launched a new, easy-to-use, color-coded heat warning system that combines meteorological and medical risk factors.
AI Traffic Management Comes to Dallas-Fort Worth
Several Texas cities are using an AI-powered platform called NoTraffic to help manage traffic signals to increase safety and improve traffic flow.
City of Costa Mesa
Licking County
Barrett Planning Group LLC
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Mpact Transit + Community
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Tufts University, Department of Urban and Environmental Policy & Planning
City of Universal City TX
ULI Northwest Arkansas
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
