Who Lives in Manufactured Homes?
The much publicized “Aging of America” is reflected in our research about owners of manufactured homes. The average age of the household head is increasing slowly but steadily, to 52.8 years in 1996, up from 50.8 years in 1990. The number of retirees choosing manufactured home living continues to rise. In 1990, 27 percent of all owners of manufactured homes listed their employment status as retired. In 1996, some 29 percent claim retiree status. As the “baby boom” generation ages, this percentage may increase. Manufactured housing provides an affordable housing option for people who are divorced, widowed or separated. In 1990, 29 percent of the people we surveyed fell into this category. The category grew to 30 percent in 1993 and to 32 percent in the 1996 study. Females living alone represent an increasing percentage. In 1996, that group comprises 20 percent, which compares with 17 percent in 1990. Still, manufactured housing is attractive to people at all life stages. Singles without
