# Retirees Move Near Grandkids, Wish They Hadn't

> Retirees move near grandkids but often regret it within three years.
- Title: Retirees Move Near Grandkids, Wish They Hadn't · 24/7 Wall St.
- Summary: Retirees move near grandkids but often regret it within three years. Retirees who move near grandkids often regret the move within three years due to…
- Keywords: retirees, grandkids, move, relocation, financial cost, medicare, social security, house sale, moving costs, children relocation, Near, Wish
- Source: 24/7 Wall St. — https://247wallst.com/personal-finance/2026/10/29/plenty-of-retirees-move-to-be-near-the-grandkids-and-wish-they-hadnt-within-three-years-one-reason-comes-up-every-time
- Author: David Beren
- Published: 2026-10-29T14:41:50+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: retirees, grandkids, move, relocation, financial cost, medicare, social security, house sale, moving costs, children relocation
## Retirees Move Near Grandkids
Thousands of retirees sell everything and move across the country to be near grandkids.
## Why Moves Break Down
Adult children relocate for careers, housing, relationships, or educational opportunities.
## Rare Retiree Moves
Only 6.2% of adults 65 and older move annually, with 19.7% crossing state lines.
## Cost of Two Moves
Selling and buying a $450,000 home costs $31,500 to $49,500 before movers.
## Retirement Income Lost
Two moves cost $63,000 to $99,000, equal to $2,520 to $3,960 of annual retirement income.
## Medicare Plan Issues
Medicare Advantage plans require staying within a service area or switching plans after moving.
## How to Avoid Regret
Rent for a year before buying and check Medicare dates before moving.
## Children's Relocation
Children often move for jobs, leaving grandparents stranded.
## Key takeaway

Retirees who move near grandkids often regret the move within three years due to children relocating for jobs.