Debbie's new home is an apartment under 40 square meters, nestled within Liberty Tiny Village in Aubrey, Texas. In stark contrast to her previous solitude, she now greets neighbors each morning. In the evenings, the warm glow from the closely built homes provides a comforting sense of community.

"A sense of security is more important than any financial calculation," she stated.

Liberty Tiny Village appeals with its small, closely built homes, fostering a sense of community and reducing loneliness among residents. *Photo: LTTV*

Sherry Miller, Debbie's neighbor and a retired English teacher, also recently sold her house of over 200 square meters, complete with a swimming pool. With her children grown and gone, the once-comfortable home became a burden. Miller used the proceeds to purchase a unit at Liberty outright, allocating the remaining funds for her retirement. "I don't want to move into a nursing home, but I also don't want to grow old alone in an oversized house," Miller explained.

These individuals represent a booming "tiny retirement" movement across the United States. This model appeals to those over 55 who seek to shed financial burdens and escape the isolation often found in expensive urban centers like New York or California.

At Liberty, homes under 37 square meters are priced between 75,000 USD and 160,000 USD. This is significantly lower than the local average home price of 300,000 USD.

Classified as "mobile homes," these residences exempt owners from property taxes. The primary fixed expense is a monthly land lease of approximately 950 USD, which covers electricity, water, waste, and Internet. The tiny house movement in the US often encounters obstacles from zoning laws, making it challenging for individuals to legally site their homes. However, meticulously planned communities like Liberty have overcome these legal hurdles, providing seniors with a secure place to live.

Despite their "tiny" designation, these homes are optimally designed for seniors. Bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms are all located on the ground floor to eliminate the need for climbing. Features like granite countertops, electric fireplaces, and high ceilings contribute to an open and spacious feel. Some units include lofts for storage or as guest sleeping areas for visiting family.

However, this new lifestyle presents its own challenges. To comfortably inhabit a space of just 37 square meters, residents must discard or sell up to 90% of their lifelong possessions. For many, this process involves a significant emotional struggle, as they part with decades of cherished mementos.

Unlike traditional nursing homes, where residents often adhere to schedules and require medical assistance, these retirement villages prioritize independence. Residents manage their own cooking and daily lives while fostering connections through community events like Thanksgiving parties, cooking competitions, and dog walks.

Kristene Newton, the village designer, notes that many residents previously owned million-dollar estates before relocating. "What they seek is balance," she explained. "They maintain their privacy, yet a vibrant community is just outside their door."

For Miller, the decision to downsize her living space was about expanding her peace of mind. "As the body ages, but the spirit still yearns for freedom, this is where I choose not to become a burden to anyone," she affirmed.

*By Ngoc Ngan (Based on Business Insider)*