The United States is experiencing a notable slowdown in senior housing construction, reaching its lowest levels in over a decade. This decline occurs simultaneously with an increasing need for such facilities, particularly as the older population continues to grow.
Nationally, the number of senior housing units being built has dropped to its lowest since 2012, as reported by the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care. In the first quarter of 2026, inventory growth was only 0.4%, marking a record low in the organization's data.
From 2010 to 2020, annual growth rates for independent living averaged around 1.5%, while assisted living averaged about 3.2%. The current rate is significantly below these historical averages.
Despite rising occupancy rates—reaching 89.5% in early 2026—builders are hesitant to initiate new projects. Lisa McCracken, head of research and analytics at NIC, attributes this pause to high costs associated with labor and materials, rather than a lack of interest in the market. The average time to complete a construction project has increased from 21 months in 2017 to 29 months in 2023.
In North Texas, the older population is projected to grow by 33.5% over five years, with the number of residents aged 60 and over expected to rise from 573,265 in 2019 to 765,329 by 2024. This demographic trend highlights the growing need for senior housing, which is not being met by the current construction pace.
