Go RVing RV Owner Demographic Profile

Evolving Demographics: The profile of RV owners is undergoing a transformation, with a notable increase in younger and more diverse owners compared to previous years. This trend is particularly evident among first-time owners and families with children under 18. The median age of RV owners has declined from 53 in 2021 to 49 in 2025, with 46% of owners now falling within the 35-54 age range. Additionally, there has been a notable increase in first-time owners, who now comprise 36% of all RV owners. Growth audiences make up 30% of current RV owners, representing Hispanic-Americans, African Americans, Asian-Americans, and LGBTQ+. 

Increased Usage: The median number of days an RV is used per year has increased to 30, a 50% increase over the 20 days of usage from the 2021 study. This suggests a deepening engagement with the RV lifestyle and a greater appreciation for the experiences it offers.   

Motivations for RVing: Understanding why people choose RV ownership is central to this report. The top three motivators for purchasing an RV include spending time in nature (54%), simply unwinding and relaxing (52%), and visiting locations with natural beauty (49%). Interestingly, 49% of RVers also cite the ability to bring pets as a crucial factor in their decision. Furthermore, younger buyers are increasingly attracted to RV ownership as a means to accommodate remote work and alternative lifestyles. 22% of RVers have indicated that someone in their home currently works  and among those working remotely, 54% indicate that work has been done from an RV.

Lifestyle and Usage Trends: The study identifies various RV user segments, ranging from casual weekend campers to family campers to escapists and adventure seekers. The most common activities enjoyed by RV owners include motorsports (40%), fishing (39%), and hiking (33%). Meanwhile, the trend of "boondocking" or off-grid camping continues to gain traction among adventure seekers. Family RVing is also on the rise, with 43% of owners reporting children under 18 in their household.

Intender Profile: The report also sheds light on the characteristics of those intending to purchase an RV in the next five years. This group, referred to as "intenders," is even more diverse than current RV owners, with a higher proportion of younger individuals and families. Currently, 8.1 million American households own an RV, however the report shows 16.9 million households express a strong interest in purchasing an RV within the next five years, representing a substantial opportunity for industry growth. This indicates a promising future for the RV industry, with a growing pool of potential customers who are eager to embrace the RV lifestyle.   

Purchasing Behavior and Financial Considerations: The way RVs are purchased and financed is also evolving. While 71% of buyers opt for new RVs, 94% of transactions still occur in person, despite the growing prevalence of digital resources in the research phase. When it comes to financing, 35% of owners pay in cash, while others utilize dealer financing (33%) or private financing (24%).

The RV industry is undergoing a significant transformation, fueled by younger and more diverse buyers, evolving lifestyle needs, and increasing technological integration. With 16.9 million potential buyers on the horizon, the market stands at a pivotal moment of expansion. By adapting to the needs of modern consumers—whether through innovative product design, enhanced financing options, or improved customer experiences—the RV industry is poised to thrive in the coming years.