The Only Winner in the RV Market in 2025

In a year marked by economic headwinds and shifting consumer priorities, the recreational vehicle industry is navigating choppy waters. Soaring housing costs have priced out many aspiring homeowners, while retirees grapple with stretched budgets amid inflation and uncertainty. Amid this backdrop, one segment of the market is not just surviving—it’s thriving.

Park model RVs, those compact, semi-permanent units designed for seasonal living in RV parks and resorts, are posting remarkable gains, emerging as the undisputed bright spot in an otherwise subdued 2025 landscape.

A Market Under Pressure

The RV sector kicked off 2025 with cautious optimism, buoyed by a year-to-date shipment increase of 4.2% through August, totaling 241,550 units. However, the momentum has faltered in recent months. Since “Liberation Day” in early summer—when the U.S. government imposed steep tariffs on imported RV components and chassis, citing national security and supply chain resilience—wholesale shipments have trended downward on a month-over-month basis compared to 2024 levels.

August alone saw a 3.1% dip, with 28,212 units shipped versus 29,105 the prior year.

Towable RVs, which dominate the market with models like travel trailers, bore the brunt of this slowdown, registering a 4.6% decline to 25,030 units for the month. Even motorhomes, traditionally a resilient category, couldn’t fully offset the drag, though they managed an 11.3% uptick to 3,182 units. Industry analysts point to the tariffs as a key culprit, hiking production costs by an estimated 15-20% for affected manufacturers and squeezing margins at a time when retail demand is already soft.

“The tariffs were meant to protect domestic jobs, but they’ve ripple effects across the board,” says Elena Vargas, a senior economist at the RV Research Alliance.

“Smaller dealers are passing on higher prices to consumers, who are increasingly price-sensitive after years of elevated interest rates.”

The Rise of the Park Model Haven

Enter park model RVs: the unsung heroes of affordability in a market craving value. These units, typically under 400 square feet and built to HUD standards for permanent placement in RV communities, saw wholesale shipments surge 33.8% in August, reaching 400 units compared to the previous year. It’s a stark contrast to the broader industry’s malaise, and early indicators suggest this growth is accelerating into the fall selling season.

Why the boom? The answer lies in a perfect storm of demographics and economics. With median home prices hovering near $420,000 nationwide—up 5% from 2024—many empty-nesters and early retirees are ditching the dream of traditional homeownership for something more nimble and budget-friendly. Park models offer a compelling alternative: prices starting as low as $50,000, low maintenance costs, and the flexibility to relocate without the hassle of a full-sized house.

“Retirees are looking for ways to stretch their savings without sacrificing comfort,” explains Dr. Marcus Hale, a retirement planning expert at Silver Horizon Advisors.

“A park model in a well-managed community can cost 70% less than a comparable condo, with amenities like pools and clubhouses included in modest monthly fees. It’s freedom with a safety net.”

Data from the RV Industry Association underscores this shift. Surveys show that 62% of recent park model buyers are over 55, up from 48% in 2023, and nearly half cite “housing affordability” as their primary motivator. These units aren’t just budget buys—they’re lifestyle choices, blending the adventure of RVing with the stability of a fixed address.

Popular models like the Forest River Park Jubilee or the Heartland Pioneer offer modern touches such as smart thermostats, gourmet kitchens, and even solar-ready roofs, appealing to tech-savvy seniors who want eco-friendly options without breaking the bank.

Broader Implications for the Industry

This park model renaissance isn’t happening in a vacuum. It’s forcing the RV sector to rethink its playbook. Manufacturers are ramping up production lines for these smaller-footprint units, with innovations like modular expansions that allow owners to add decks or screen rooms post-purchase. Suppliers, too, are adapting, prioritizing domestic sourcing to sidestep tariff woes.

Yet challenges remain. Zoning restrictions in some states limit where park models can be placed, and community lot rents have ticked up 8% on average this year. Still, the segment’s momentum suggests it’s more than a blip—it’s a blueprint for resilience.

As RV Industry Association President & CEO noted in a recent statement, the sector’s strength lies in its adaptability: “We’re seeing RVers redefine what ‘home on wheels’ means, from epic cross-country hauls to cozy seasonal retreats. In tough times, innovation turns obstacles into opportunities.”

Looking Ahead: A Silver Lining for Savvy Buyers

For retirees eyeing 2026, the message is clear: In a market where big RVs are stumbling, park models are the smart play. They’re not just a way to save money—they’re a gateway to intentional living, unburdened by mortgage payments and property taxes. As housing pressures mount and tariffs linger, this niche could well expand, pulling more newcomers into the RV fold.

In 2025, the RV world may have its losers, but park models? They’re the champions, proving that sometimes, less really is more. If you’re pondering your next move, it might be time to scout that perfect park spot—before the rush hits.