The Go RVing 2025 RV Owner Demographic Profile and Industry Insights revealed a dynamic shift in the RV ownership landscape. The study, conducted by IPSOS, unveils a younger, more diverse and increasingly engaged RV owner base.
The report delves into the evolving landscape of RV ownership in the United States. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of current and former RV owners, as well as those intending to purchase an RV in the near future. The report aims to provide insights into the demographics, usage habits and motivations of these groups, with a particular focus on identifying key trends and opportunities for the RV industry.
Key findings:
A New Generation of RVers
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.
Diverse Ownership
The RV community is becoming more inclusive, with a growing number of Hispanic-American, African-American, Asian-American and LGBTQ+ owners, who now make up 30% of RV owners.
Increased Usage
RV owners are spending more time on the road, with the median number of days used per year rising to 30, a 50% increase over usage in 2021. This suggests a deepening engagement with the RV lifestyle and a greater appreciation for the experiences it offers.
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.
Strong Motivations
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.
Remote Work Ready
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 remotely, and among those working remotely, 54% indicate that work has been done from an RV.
Booming Intender Market
A staggering 16.9 million households express strong interest in RV ownership, indicating significant future growth.
The report 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 & 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%).
“This report shows that there is no stereotypical RV owner, but rather that RVers span across many demographics with a common thread of valuing quality time outdoor with loved ones,” said Karen Redfern, Go RVing chief marketing officer. “As the RV industry continues to evolve, it is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing interest in outdoor recreation, flexible work arrangements, and experiential travel. By embracing innovation, targeting new audiences, and providing exceptional customer experiences, the RV industry can drive sustained growth and solidify its place as a cornerstone of the American lifestyle.”
View the member-exclusive report here.
