More Single Men Renting in Retirement following life changing events
The Office for National Statistics data shows the number of people aged 65 and over living alone has risen by more than a million in the past decade. While the proportion of older women living alone has remained stable, the number of solo men increased from 22% in 2014 to 27% in 2024.
Joanne Couch, Director of Finance and Operations at My Future Living, said:
“More older men are living alone than ever before, often due to life changes like divorce or bereavement. Renting in a retirement community offers a simpler, more flexible way to live, helping people maintain independence while giving them the option to socialise.”
For Stephen Hudson, now in his late sixties, renting offered a fresh start. After a relationship breakdown, he moved from London to a retirement apartment at Rose Court in Littlehampton, seeking a simpler lifestyle by the sea.
“I didn’t want a mortgage or the responsibility of maintaining a home. Renting just made sense,” he said. “It’s easy and flexible and I can travel or move if I want to. ” With predictable monthly costs and no maintenance worries, Stephen enjoys an active, independent life. He says,
“I’ve got friends, I sail, I walk, and I like that there’s a social side here if I want it, but there is no pressure.”
Similarly, 74-year-old retired teacher Steve Leake found renting provided both stability and a renewed sense of purpose after a marriage breakdown and a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Now living at Homethorn House in Crawley, he says the move has been transformative.
“It’s been the perfect medicine,” he said. “There’s always something going on and a real sense of community.”
Steve has embraced life at the development, from daily coffee mornings to hosting quiz nights, while also enjoying the reassurance of support when needed. He says,
“It allows me to live completely stress-free, knowing there’s always someone nearby if I need help.”
Free from the burden of maintenance, Steve now has more time to focus on writing. He has had several books published now, inspired by his local area and interests.
For both men, retirement renting has provided independence, flexibility and a supportive environment. It offers not just a home, but a positive new chapter in later life.
To find out more about available homes and retirement rental options, visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk
About My Future Living:
My Future Living is the leading UK retirement rentals brand, a subsidiary of ReSI Property Management Ltd. Specialising in high-quality, age-exclusive assured tenancy rental properties in secure and welcoming later living communities across the UK, My Future Living makes retirement renting easy and affordable. With 2,190 apartments tailored exclusively for those aged 55 and above, situated in modern purpose-built retirement developments along the coast, in vibrant cities, or picturesque market towns, we offer homes to suit every lifestyle and preference.
For more information, please visit www.myfutureliving.co.uk.