M
arian Dulberg, 73, swapped her four‑bedroom, two‑bath home for a one‑bedroom, one‑bath apartment in 2022 after deciding to stay on Long Island instead of moving to North Carolina. “I miss my house, but I’m happy,” she said, noting she’s close to her daughter, son‑in‑law, granddaughter and the beaches. Long Island’s high median property taxes and rising home prices have pushed many retirees away, yet many seniors stay because of family ties and familiarity. Experts say the emotional pull outweighs the lure of cheaper southern climates.

    Seniors face unique hurdles in the current market. James Britz, EVP and COO of the Long Island Housing Partnership, points out the lack of inventory and record‑high prices. Even if a senior sells a larger home, the proceeds may barely cover a smaller condo or house. Baby boomers (ages 60‑69) are the largest group of buyers and sellers, with 27% moving due to retirement or children moving out; 46% of Gen X buyers (45‑59) do the same.

    Stacy Zigman, a RE/MAX agent, helps seniors navigate emotional and market pressures. She advises starting early, especially when seeking single‑level homes that offer social interaction and low maintenance. Many seniors want a manageable space after years in multi‑story houses, and those who have lost a spouse often seek a more active community.

    Denise Chase and her husband downsized in 2015 after 35 years in Seaford. Maintaining a large home and an in‑ground pool became difficult, so they sold and moved to a new Suffolk County condo. The transition involved packing, donating to Goodwill and Salvation Army, and selling items on Craigslist. They found a condo with a driveway, garage, three bedrooms and three bathrooms, and proximity to family in Ronkonkoma and the Long Island MacArthur Airport.

    Anna Beigelman of Exit Realty Premier hosts free seminars on downsizing. She notes the biggest challenge is deciding what to do with personal belongings; some seniors keep items in storage while sorting out sentimental value. Beigelman also highlights that many seniors are surprised by how much they can sell their homes for today versus decades ago.

    Dulberg’s move was prompted by widowhood in 2009, her daughter’s pregnancy, and her brother’s death. She sold her Garden City South home for $630,000 after a bidding war and quickly found an apartment near her daughter. She donated much of her older furniture and purchased modern pieces. Her advice to other seniors is to clear out as much as possible before moving, keep an open mind, and stay active.

    Seniors often stay on Long Island because they are accustomed to the island’s doctors, routine, and community. Despite the high costs, the emotional and practical benefits of staying close to family and familiar surroundings keep many retirees on the island.