Senior Housing Occupancy, Quarter by Quarter (NIC MAP Data)
By Haven Senior Living Partners · · 2 min read
A running record of U.S. senior housing occupancy from NIC MAP data, updated each quarter.
Key takeaways
- NIC reported 90.4% senior housing occupancy across its 31 Primary Markets in the third quarter of 2026.
- That was the 21st consecutive quarter of occupancy gains.
- Annual inventory growth was about 0.4%, near record lows, with 16,159 units under construction.
- These are sector-wide figures, not a forecast for any single property or investment.
Latest reading: 3Q 2026
| Measure | 3Q 2026 |
|---|---|
| Senior housing occupancy, 31 Primary Markets | 90.4% |
| Consecutive quarters of gains | 21 |
| Annual inventory growth | About 0.4% |
| Units under construction | 16,159 |
Source: National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (NIC), "Senior Housing Occupancy Nears Record High as Majority of Markets Surpass 90%" (October 1, 2026), and NIC MAP Market Fundamentals data.
What the trend means
Occupancy has risen steadily for more than five years as demand from older adults grew and new construction slowed. With occupancy near its historical high and little new supply arriving, operators have had more room to raise rents. A majority of NIC's primary markets are now above 90%.
What it does not mean
National occupancy is an average. Individual markets and properties can be well above or below it, and a strong national reading does not guarantee results for any one community. Labor costs, local competition and operator quality still decide how a specific property performs.
Why we track it
Occupancy is the single most-watched number in senior housing. It drives revenue, margins and values. We will update this page each quarter when NIC releases new data. For the full investment case, read Why Senior Housing; for detailed index data, see Capital Intelligence.
Want to talk about what these numbers mean for your portfolio? Schedule a call.
This article is for education only and is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any security. Target returns are not guaranteed. Consult your own tax, legal and financial advisors.
