Life Cycle Differences in Housing Perspectives of Rural Households

Assessing satisfaction with housing is an essential tool in designing residential structures and shaping housing policy. Numerous studies have examined differences between demographic characteristics and housing satisfaction, with overwhelming evidence that age is a significant variable. However, explanations for these differences have not been sufficiently addressed. This study attempts to define age-related life cycle differences in relation to housing satisfaction of a rural sample. A mailed questionnaire was used to collect data from a random sample of 1,645 rural households in two southern states. The instrument elicited respondents' demographic characteristics, housing satisfaction, and housing values. Findings indicate significant differences in housing satisfaction among four life cycle groups with elderly respondents being most satisfied and baby boomers being least satisfied. Significant differences in other demographic characteristics and housing values were also found. An important conclusion is that rural communities need to provide a variety of housing options and programs to support diverse life cycle groups.