Who Lives in Manufactured Homes?

The much publicized "Aging of America" is reflected in research about owners of manufactured homes. The average age of the household head is increasing slowly but steadily, to 52.8 years in 1996, up from 50.8 years in 1990. The number of retirees choosing manufactured home living continues to rise. In 1990, 27 percent of all owners of manufactured homes listed their employment status as retired. In 1996, some 29 percent claim retiree status. As the "baby boom" generation ages, this percentage may increase. Manufactured housing provides an affordable housing option for people who are divorced, widowed or separated. In 1990, 29 percent of the people surveyed fell into this category. The category grew to 30 percent in 1993 and to 32 percent in the 1996 study. Females living alone represent an increasing percentage. In 1996, that group comprises 20 percent, which compares with 17 percent in 1990.

Still, manufactured housing is attractive to people at all life stages. Singles without children make up 28 percent of all residents of manufactured homes; couples without children, 34 percent; parents with children at home, 36 percent. Roommates sharing a manufactured home represent two percent of the market.

Other statistics include:

Median household income in 1998 is $25,250, up slightly from 1996.

The total net worth of households participating in the study continues to rise. The median net worth reported in 1996 is $58,000. That compares with a median net worth of $52,000 reported in 1990.

Household size remains steady with two-person households representing 38 percent of those surveyed.

Eighty-three percent of all household heads surveyed have completed high school. Of those surveyed, 46 percent have attended college.

Satisfaction with living in a manufactured home remains high, with 88 percent listing themselves as somewhat or very satisfied. Residents of manufactured housing remain a stable group.

Twenty-two percent say they've lived in or owned a manufactured home for 20 years or more. Another 38 percent have lived in or owned a manufactured home between 10 and 19 years. Twenty-nine percent of the people surveyed owned another manufactured home before purchasing their current home. Twelve percent owned their previous home less than five years, and 17 percent owned their previous home five years or more.

If stability is a measure of satisfaction, then owners of manufactured homes are a satisfied group. Of those people surveyed, 55 percent said they plan to always own their current home.

We feel this information will help you to decide that the time is now to begin fulfilling your Dream..............at Wausau Homes! We are only a keystroke or a phone call away so contact us now to be on your way to your Dream in a Wausau Homes Manufactured Home.