Here are a few of the report's biggest takeaways and what they could mean for buyers and sellers in Central Oregon.
Baby Boomers Continue to Lead
Baby Boomers remain the largest force in today's housing market, accounting for 42% of home buyers and 55% of home sellers.
Many are leveraging years of home equity to downsize, relocate, or purchase homes that better fit their current lifestyle. Here in Central Oregon, we continue to see strong interest from retirees drawn to the region's outdoor recreation, scenic beauty, and welcoming communities.
Millennials Are Buying Their Next Home
Older Millennials reported the highest median household income among buyers at $132,700, making them well-positioned to upgrade from starter homes.
Many are searching for homes with flexible layouts, dedicated office space, larger yards, and neighborhoods that support both work and family life.
Flexible Living Is More Important Than Ever
The report found that Gen X had the highest share of multi-generational home buyers, reflecting a growing demand for homes that can accommodate aging parents, adult children, or extended family.
Properties with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), guest suites, or flexible floor plans continue to appeal to buyers looking for long-term versatility.
Gen Z Is Entering the Market
Although they're the youngest generation of buyers, Gen Z had the highest share of single female buyers (35%) and is the most racially diverse generation of homebuyers.
Many are exploring creative homeownership strategies such as house hacking, purchasing smaller homes, or investing in properties with future rental potential.
What This Means for Central Oregon
While these are national trends, they closely reflect what we're seeing across Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and the surrounding communities.
Today's buyers are looking for homes that offer flexibility, long-term value, and the potential to adapt as life changes. At the same time, many longtime homeowners are benefiting from years of equity, giving them more options when it's time to make a move.
No matter your stage of life, understanding these trends can help you make more informed real estate decisions.
If you're thinking about buying or selling in Central Oregon, we'd be happy to help you navigate today's market and find a strategy that fits your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the largest home buyers in 2026?
According to the National Association of REALTORS®, Younger and Older Baby Boomers combined make up 42% of home buyers.
Why are multi-generational homes becoming more popular?
More families are looking for homes that can accommodate changing needs, including aging parents, adult children, and flexible living arrangements.
How do these trends affect Central Oregon?
Demand for flexible floor plans, ADUs, and homes that support long-term lifestyles continues to grow across Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and surrounding communities.
No matter where you are in your real estate journey, understanding today's generational trends can help you make more informed decisions. Whether you're buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing, or investing, every generation brings different priorities—and today's market offers opportunities for each.
If you're considering buying or selling in Bend, Sisters, Redmond, or anywhere in Central Oregon, we're here to help you navigate the market with local expertise and personalized guidance.
Want to learn more about real estate in Central Oregon? Explore our blog for market updates, neighborhood guides, home buying and selling tips, investment insights, and the latest local real estate trends to help you make confident decisions.
All information is considered reliable, but not guaranteed. Please contact one of our agents licensed in Oregon for more information.
All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, this is not a solicitation of brokerage services. AvenirRealty, License , Avenir Realty.
Serving all of Central Oregon, we specialize in sellers and buyers looking to downsize for retirement, move into a larger home, or a home with closer proximity to trails, rivers, or local amenities.