According to a report released by Welltower, which surveyed 3,000 residents in 10 cities — Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto, and Washington, D.C. — seven in 10 big-city residents want to continue to live in an urban setting when they are 80 and beyond.

The 2017 Aging in Cities survey revealed that suburban or rural living isn’t the choice for 70 percent of the respondents. Quality healthcare is a No. 1 priority for many, and major cities are desirable because of the access and options for senior care. 

“The results of the 2017 Aging in Cities survey challenge preconceived ideas about aging and show that most contemporary city dwellers want to age in their communities,” said Thomas DeRosa, Welltower’s Chief Executive Officer, in a press release. “With the rapid growth of the aging of the population, these preferences are going to shape urban living for years to come. We must find ways to adapt city life to these new demands of residents of big cities, where current options are limited.”

Having access to social interaction and activities is a huge desire for aging seniors, and the mobility of living in a city is another plus. According to the survey results, 84 percent of city dwellers say mobility is a concern and the transportation offerings in major cities take away the need to have a car.

One-in-five city dwellers want to have a part-time or full-time job that is fulfilling and provides purpose. The desire for the older generations to work could create “silver economy jobs” and other opportunities aimed at this population. 

Senior city dwellers also want a place where they can make new friends and have an active lifestyle. Living in a diverse community with different age groups is also another top concern. 

Chicago’s senior city dwellers specifically cited the city’s public transportation as a desirable trait.