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Home Alone


There is an interesting and demographically important trend toward solo living. Today 35.7 million Americans live alone representing 28% of US households. That is up from 13% in 1960 and 23% in 1980, according to the US Census Bureau. The trend relates to delayed or foregone marriage, longer life expectancy, increased urbanization and rising wealth, all of which is prompting more Americans to go solo.

The Wall Street Journal ran an interesting article about the trend noting that consumer products companies are focusing a lot of attention on the lucrative market for singles. Refrigerators and ovens are shrinking, food companies are producing more single-serving options, and Betty Crocker is finding that singles are not using the extra time without a mate to cook because they are too busy.

From a real estate perspective this trend is driving developers to deliver more studios and one bedroom apartments. Historically one bedroom and two bedroom units were roughly equal, but not now. Today two bedroom units comprise, on average, approximately 35% of the units. Keep an eye on this trend for your business because it will have important implications.

About the SelectLeaders Job Barometer

The SelectLeaders Job Barometer, published since 2006, is the foremost survey of employment opportunities, trends, and hiring practices in the commercial real estate industry.

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SelectLeaders powers the Career Centers for 9 premier real estate industry Associations (whose members control or direct 90% of commercial real estate). Jobs are from all sectors and all levels with 29% paying over $100,000. SelectLeaders Job Network offers unequalled access to the Real Estate community. To learn more visit selectleaders.com or visit our Job Network Career Centers: BOMA, CCIM, CREFC, GlobeST.com, NAIOP, NAREIM, NAREIT, NMHC, PREA, Project REAP, ULI, NRHC


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