New Survey Shows RV Ownership Up and Climbing

RV ownership is up and climbing, according to the results of a new RV ownership survey conducted for the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA).  That’s good news for RV dealers, RV owners and RV sellers. Despite the lingering effects of the recession, people continue to recognize the financial and recreational benefits of owning a recreational vehicle. An RV is now owned by nearly 1 in every 9 U.S. families!

Conducted by Dr. Richard Curtin, Director of Consumer Surveys at the University of Michigan, RVIA’s most recent RV Consumer Demographic Profile shows that America’s RV nation has grown to a record 8.9 million households, 8.5% of all U.S. households. In 2005, there were 7.9 million RV owners in the U.S., 8% of U.S. households.

The RVIA survey revealed a steady climb in RV ownership rates since the previous survey was conducted in 2005. With survey results indicating a steadily growing demand for RVs — according to the 2011 survey, 21% of U.S. households are planning to purchase an RV – industry analysts expect RV ownership numbers to continue climbing.

Interestingly, survey data indicates a new trend toward purchasing new RVs. According to the survey 70% of RV owners planned to replace their current RV, with many owners expressing a preference for more fuel-efficient, eco-friendly new RV models. A third of first-time RV buyers also expressed interest in purchasing new RVs.