Current research into retiree migration has
focused on identifying geographical patterns of migration
and on analysing the personal characteristics of retirees.
Very few studies have investigated the community context
of retiree migration. This research explores associations
between community characteristics and retiree migration
intentions through a study centered on small towns located
in Northwestern Ontario. It makes a contribution to
existing retiree migration literature through the development
and application of a theoretical perspective on
community retiree migration, based on Rose's concept of
an aging subculture and Breton's concept of institutional
completeness. Findings indicate that there is a strong
association between community characteristics and retiree
migration intentions. Retirees appear to intend staying
in those communities which have a complex set of community
characteristics. Conversely, retirees appear to intend
leaving communities which are less developed
