What is the average age of RV buyers?

The RV market has evolved dramatically. Once associated mainly with retirees, it now appeals to a broader audience seeking freedom, flexibility, and a deeper connection with the outdoors. The lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with shifting lifestyle goals among millennials and Gen Xers, has reshaped how people view RV ownership.

In this article, we explore findings from the most comprehensive study of RV ownership ever conducted, uncover key demographic trends, and answer the pressing question: who’s really buying RVs in 2025—and how is this shaping the future of RV living?

Who’s Driving the RV Market Shift?

For many years, retirees and older couples made up the majority of RV owners. While baby boomers remain a strong presence, the market is expanding to include first-time buyers, young families, and remote workers seeking a mobile lifestyle.

According to the Go RVing 2025 Demographic Profile, the median age of RV owners has dropped from 53 to 49, with 46% now between 35 and 54. Meanwhile, 36% of all RV owners are first-timers, and 30% belong to growing demographic groups including Hispanic, African American, Asian-American, and LGBTQ+ households.

Demand is rising quickly. Although 8.1 million households currently own an RV, 16.9 million more say they’re planning to buy within five years—a major sign of where the market is headed.

Usage is also up. RV owners now use their vehicles a median of 30 days per year, a 50% increase since 2021. This reflects deeper lifestyle integration, especially among remote workers, with over half of those working remotely saying they’ve worked from an RV.

Motivations are also shifting:

58% RV for relaxation
57% want more time in nature
53% are drawn to scenic destinations
43% value the ability to bring pets

As the buyer profile expands, the RV industry is responding with broader model options, better financing, and more lifestyle-oriented features

What Age Group Buys the Most RVs?

The pandemic brought a surge of first-time RV owners, many of whom were looking for safer and more flexible ways to travel. For those hoping to save money on travel, avoid airports, or embrace remote work, purchasing an RV became a practical and appealing choice.

Most Common Age Range for First-Time RV Buyers

Data from the most comprehensive study of RV ownership ever conducted reveals that most new buyers are between 35 and 54 years old. This age group often has stable careers, growing families, and enough disposable income to invest in an RV for recreation, travel, or even work-from-road opportunities.

This aligns with the trend of people exploring the RV lifestyle not just for long vacations, but for regular weekend getaways and hybrid travel-living experiences.

Age Breakdown by RV Type

Different age groups prefer different types of RVs, often based on lifestyle, travel goals, and budget:

Class A Motorhomes: Popular with older buyers (65+), these large vehicles offer comfort, space, and are well-suited for retirement or extended travel.
Class B and Class C Motorhomes: These are favorites among younger buyers, including millennials and Gen Z, thanks to their compact size and ease of driving.

Towable RVs: Such as travel trailers, appeal to a wide age range, especially young families, due to their affordability and versatility.

RV Buying Patterns: Millennials vs Boomers

The contrast between millennials and baby boomers is reshaping the RV industry. These two generations have different motivations, priorities, and spending habits, and understanding their behavior is essential for brands aiming to stay relevant.

How Millennials Are Shaping the RV Market

Millennials are fueling a wave of innovation in RV design and marketing. Many of those looking to buy an RV for the first time are drawn to options that offer affordability, flexibility, and ease of travel. They often opt for towable RVs and Class B motorhomes, which are compact, fuel-efficient, and easier to drive—ideal for spontaneous road trips or working remotely from scenic spots.

For millennials and Gen Z, the RV lifestyle is about more than just travel—it’s about freedom, self-expression, and living on their own terms. They value digital connectivity, smart features, and sustainable technology. As a result, RV makers are adapting by integrating solar panels, mobile Wi-Fi, and energy-efficient appliances.

Preferences Comparison

RV Type	Millennial Preferences	Baby Boomer Preferences
Class A	Less common due to high cost and size	Preferred for luxury, space, and long-term use
Class B	Popular for ease of use and affordability	Less preferred, seen as too compact
Towables	Highly favored for flexibility and low price	Common among boomers with existing tow vehicles

The Continued Influence of Baby Boomer Buyers

Despite the rise of younger buyers, baby boomers remain a dominant force. Their preferences often include Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels, offering space, comfort, and the amenities required for retirement travel or extended seasonal stays at an RV resort.

Boomers tend to be brand loyal, focused on quality and durability. With greater financial stability, they’re more likely to prioritize top-tier features and personalized service.

As the industry balances the needs of both new RV buyers and seasoned travelers, aligning offerings with generational values becomes increasingly important. Whether it’s the digital-first, minimalist approach of millennials or the comfort-focused expectations of boomers, manufacturers must adapt to remain competitive.

Factors Influencing the Average RV Buyer Age

Several factors influence the average age of people purchasing an RV. It’s not just about wanderlust—economic conditions, lifestyle goals, and access to financing all shapes who becomes an RV owner.

Income Levels and Financing Availability

Your financial situation plays a major role in the decision to buy. For first-time owners, affordability is key. Whether it’s a personal loan or a dedicated RV loan, access to flexible financing options can determine whether someone enters the market—or waits.

Interest rates can heavily impact monthly payments.
Limited down payment options may delay ownership for younger buyers.
The cost of owning an RV (maintenance, fuel, insurance) often favors those with stable incomes.

With RV prices ranging widely—especially between towable RVs and motorhomes—understanding whether it’s better to pay cash or finance the RV becomes an important consideration. As RV prices vary widely—especially between towable RVs and motorhomes—having the right loan options can make RV ownership more accessible across age groups.

Remote Work and Flexible Travel Options

The COVID-19 pandemic transformed how Americans live and work. With many jobs shifting online, the appeal of RV living skyrocketed. Younger buyers found the idea of traveling without sacrificing productivity especially attractive.

The rise of remote work encouraged long-term travel.
RVs became mobile offices for digital professionals.
Many began planning on buying RVs not just for vacations, but as part of a hybrid lifestyle.

The ability to work from anywhere has brought a new wave of RV intenders into the market—especially those between the ages of 25–44, who now see RVs as both practical and aspirational.

What the Data Says: Average RV Buyer Age Statistics

As RV ownership evolves, recent reports highlight important shifts in age groups and buyer behavior. From younger millennials entering the market to baby boomers maintaining a strong presence, these studies offer a snapshot of who’s driving today’s RV trends.

Recent Industry Reports and Surveys

Report/Source	Average Age of RV Buyers	Key Findings
2025 North American Camping Report	45–54 years	Strong growth in towable RV sales; more diverse and younger buyer profiles
RVIA Survey	50–59 years	Boomers still represent a major segment; Gen X interest is increasing
Industry Trends Report	40–49 years	Younger buyers (millennials) are gaining ground; remote work fuels interest

These findings reflect a market in flux—one where first-time buyers and former RV owners alike are reshaping the industry. While the median age of ownership still skews toward 40s and 50s, the influx of younger, tech-savvy buyers is undeniable.

Average RV Buyer Age by Region (US Focus)

Regional trends also play a role in who’s buying:

The Northeast and West Coast tend to attract younger buyers, often due to lifestyle trends and access to national parks.
Southern and Midwestern states continue to draw traditional RV buyers, with many in their 50s and 60s.

These differences can influence not just the age of an RV buyer, but also the type of RV they choose and how often they use it.

Age Group	Preferred RV Type	Why They Choose It
25–34	Class B / Towables	Affordable, compact, ideal for weekend trips
35–54	Travel Trailer / Class C	Balance of space and comfort; good for families and work trips
55–65	Class A / Fifth Wheels	Long-term use, retirement travel, higher-end features
65+	Class A Motorhomes	Spacious, comfortable, suited for seasonal or full-time living

These categories help brands understand what motivates different buyer types—and guide product development accordingly.

Is the Average Age of RV Buyers Getting Younger?

Yes—and the shift is accelerating. New buyers in their 30s and early 40s are entering the market in record numbers. Many are motivated by flexible lifestyles, eco-conscious travel, and the desire to explore nature without giving up comfort.

The trend is especially strong among millennials and Gen Z, who are adopting RV living as a means of balancing work, family, and adventure. They’re not just buying—many are documenting their journeys on social media, further popularizing the lifestyle.

Emerging Trends Among Younger Buyers

Growing interest in compact RVs that are easy to store, drive, and maintain.
High demand for tech features: solar power, fast Wi-Fi, and smart lighting.
Emphasis on minimalism and sustainability over luxury and size.

Predictions for the Next Decade

The data suggests continued growth in younger demographics over the next 10 years. Here’s how the landscape may evolve:

Trend/Prediction	Current Status	Projected Change by 2030
Demand for Compact RVs	Increasing among younger buyers	Standard choice for entry-level ownership
Tech-enabled RVs	Growing popularity	Integrated smart features become the norm
Sustainable RVs	High interest among eco-conscious buyers	Surge in production of green-certified models
Financing Options for Younger Buyers	Limited but improving	Expansion of flexible loan packages

With the market becoming more diverse, RV brands will need to evolve continuously—offering more inclusive experiences and smarter solutions.

Conclusion: What Does This Mean for the RV Industry?

As RV ownership gets younger and more diverse, the industry must continue evolving—offering tech-savvy features, flexible financing, and lifestyle-driven designs. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned traveler, the RV experience is no longer one-size-fits-all.

At RecNation, we support this new generation of RVers with accessible, and secure storage solutions tailored to travel trailers, Class B motorhomes, and more. Wherever your journey begins, we’re here to help you protect what moves you.

FAQs

What is the current average age of an RV buyer?

The average age is trending younger, with many new RV buyers now falling between 35 and 54. Millennials and Gen Xers represent a growing share of ownership.

Are millennials buying more RVs than baby boomers?

Yes. While baby boomers still buy luxury models, millennials are fueling growth in affordable towable RVs and Class B motorhomes.

What type of RVs are younger buyers most likely to purchase?

Millennials and Gen Z prefer different types of RVs, often choosing compact, flexible models like travel trailers and Class B RVs.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic influenced RV buying patterns?

The pandemic encouraged safe, flexible travel—bringing in first-time buyers and popularizing RV living among a wider audience.

Are there regional differences in RV buyer demographics?

Yes. Coastal regions see younger, more diverse buyers, while central states tend to have older, long-term RV owners.