Short List

Moving Targets

Nearly half of American households plan to move at some point in the next five years, according to a survey conducted by the Demand Institute. Seventy-five percent of participants who plan to move report that location is a top consideration for moving, and 47 percent feel that the location is more important than the home itself.

Many movers are not going far: The report finds that 59 percent are only moving within 30 miles of their current home. Thirty percent of those surveyed plan to move out of state, hitting a record low since 2000. The Western and Southern U.S. continue to be the top destinations for those seeking a location with ideal climate or those seeking a location to retire.

Although more than 90 percent of households own at least one car, Americans still tend to place importance on walkability and neighborhood amenities they have close to home. The survey found that walkable communities register stronger growth in home prices compared to less walkable communities. Those surveyed living in a highly walkable community are 16 percent more likely to report their quality of life has improved in the past few years compared to those who do not live in a walkable neighborhood.