Residential Mobility in Mid‐ to Late‐Life: A Longitudinal Analysis From the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
2026-07-24
Residential mobility, the local relocation of individuals and households, plays an important role in shaping population dynamics, housing markets, service demand, and individual well‐being. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with residential mobility in mid‐ to later life among Canadians, examining how needs, capabilities/resources, and opportunity structures together influence the decision to relocate. Using longitudinal data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, our findings showed the multidimensional nature of residential mobility in mid‐ to later life. Needs‐related factors, including poorer oral health, nutritional vulnerability, indicators of psychological and cognitive strain, greater reliance on non‐professional support, and dissatisfaction with home, were associated with higher odds of moving. By contrast, capabilities and social resources, such as higher income, social engagement, having a partner, and strong ethnocultural ties, were associated with greater residential stability. Opportunity structures and contextual constraints, including dwelling type, non‐urban residence, and province of residence, also played an important role, highlighting the relevance of broader place‐based factors. In addition, prior relocation and becoming unpartnered were associated with greater odds of subsequent mobility. To support residential stability where desired and ensure that relocations are driven by choice rather than necessity, policy efforts should prioritize early preventive supports, community‐based home adaptations, strengthened home and community care, and improved housing affordability and access to services.