The Baby Boomer Impact on the Housing Market in Berkeley County, SC

The Baby Boomer generation, Americans born between 1946 and 1964, continues to play a powerful role in shaping housing markets nationwide. Here in Berkeley County, South Carolina, their choices about where and how to live are influencing home availability, pricing trends, and neighborhood growth patterns from Summerville and Goose Creek to Moncks Corner and Hanahan.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, we’re keeping a close eye on how this generation’s housing decisions affect both buyers and sellers in the Lowcountry. Here’s a breakdown of the key ways Baby Boomers are impacting the Berkeley County housing market right now.

Aging in Place and Limited Housing Supply

Across South Carolina, Baby Boomers are increasingly choosing to “age in place” staying in their current homes rather than downsizing or moving into retirement communities. A 2024 Redfin study showed that nearly 78% of Baby Boomers plan to remain in their homes indefinitely.

This decision has a ripple effect across Berkeley County’s market. Many established neighborhoods — particularly in Sangaree, Crowfield Plantation, and Foxbank Plantation — have homes that could be prime opportunities for new buyers, but they remain off the market as long-term owners stay put.

While Berkeley County has seen a steady increase in new construction (particularly near Nexton, Cane Bay, and Carnes Crossroads), the “aging in place” trend continues to tighten resale inventory, keeping upward pressure on home prices and limiting available options for first-time buyers.

A Market Leaning Toward Balance

Despite lower resale inventory, the market in Berkeley County has begun to shift toward more balance. Builders are adding new homes faster than in years past, giving buyers more leverage in negotiations — especially for new builds.

That said, resale properties owned by Baby Boomers often represent the most desirable homes established neighborhoods, larger lots, and mature landscaping and these remain in limited supply.

If Boomers continue holding their homes, buyers will keep facing competition for well-maintained resale listings. But when a larger number of these homes eventually come to market, we may see a broader selection and more stable pricing, especially for larger single-family homes.

Impact on Home Prices and Affordability

Baby Boomer housing decisions are contributing to a unique pricing mix in Berkeley County.

• Tight inventory in established areas is keeping prices strong.
• New construction growth in Cane Bay and Nexton is expanding supply and stabilizing pricing trends.
• Interest rate adjustments and seller incentives are giving buyers new room to negotiate.

If many Boomers list their homes at once for example, to relocate closer to family or move into 55+ communities that could temporarily increase inventory and ease affordability pressures for younger buyers.

For now, Berkeley County remains more affordable than neighboring Charleston County, making it a key market for both retirees and families seeking more space for less money.

Mismatch Between Generations’ Housing Preferences

Another emerging challenge in Berkeley County is a style mismatch between the homes Boomers own and what younger buyers want.

Many Boomers live in larger single-family homes with multiple bedrooms and big yards great for families, but not always what downsizers or first-time buyers are looking for. Millennials and Gen Z buyers increasingly prefer smaller, energy-efficient, and walkable homes with modern amenities.

If Boomers decide to sell in higher numbers, some of these older homes may require modernization or light remodeling to attract today’s buyers. Updating kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces can help bridge that generational gap and maximize value.

Rising Demand for 55+ and Senior-Friendly Housing

As Baby Boomers age, Berkeley County is seeing growing demand for 55+ communities, accessible housing, and active adult developments.

Developments like Del Webb Nexton, Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay, and Margaritaville Hilton Head (nearby) are prime examples of how builders are responding to this demographic shift.

To meet ongoing demand, future development in Berkeley County will need to include more:

• One-story homes with accessible floor plans
• Maintenance-free townhomes and condos
• Senior-friendly design elements (wider doorways, zero-entry showers, etc.)
• Quality healthcare and retail amenities nearby

The creation of more senior-focused housing will not only serve Boomers but also free up traditional family homes, improving overall market balance for all generations.

Economic and Community Impacts

The Baby Boomer generation’s choices don’t just affect housing they influence Berkeley County’s economy and local planning priorities.

• Property Taxes: Fewer home sales slow down reassessments, potentially reducing tax growth.
• Local Services: Increased demand for healthcare, senior transportation, and wellness programs.
• Job Growth: Expansion in construction, renovation, and senior-care industries.

These trends are prompting county planners and developers to adapt balancing infrastructure growth with evolving housing needs across age groups.

What This Means for Berkeley County Buyers and Sellers

For home sellers, Boomers’ staying power keeps inventory tight, making this a strategic time to list. Well priced, well maintained homes continue to draw attention  particularly those with modern updates and flexible spaces.

For buyers, preparation is key. As Boomers slowly transition out of their homes, more options will enter the market — from established neighborhoods to new 55+ communities offering a range of price points and styles.

At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Palmetto, our team helps both buyers and sellers navigate these generational shifts with expert local insight, data-driven pricing, and targeted marketing strategies.

Call us at 843-584-8326