Over 40% of Ukrainians consider moving this winter due to blackout and shelling risks

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SOCIETY 29.09.2026 / author:
Over 40% of Ukrainians consider moving this winter due to blackout and shelling risks

Nearly 70% of potential movers prefer private houses over apartments

Potential power, heating, and water supply outages could prompt over 40% of Ukrainian citizens to change their place of residence this winter. While 17% of respondents already plan to move, another 23% consider relocation as a backup scenario. Most Ukrainians considering a move prefer renting over buying new property. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Тетяна Веремєєва) citing OLX Real Estate, according to the portal PromPolitInform.

A total of 38% of respondents strictly refuse to change their residence under any circumstances. Meanwhile, 10% of citizens plan to move for reasons unrelated to winter utility risks, and 11% remain undecided.

Security concerns remain the primary driver behind final relocation decisions. Deteriorating security conditions or increased shelling could force 45% of citizens to relocate, while damage to current housing affects 36% of respondents.

Reasons for moving and relocation geography

Utility disruptions also heavily impact public sentiment. Prolonged power outages could trigger a move for 31% of respondents, heating issues concern 30%, and water supply disruptions affect 23%. Additionally, 12% cite rising utility costs as a key factor.

Among those contemplating relocation, 35% are willing to search within their current city, and another 35% would move to another Ukrainian city. Moving to a village or countryside is an option for 27%, 22% consider moving abroad, and 6% plan to stay temporarily with relatives or friends.

Ivano-Frankivsk Region is the top destination, selected by 23% of potential movers. Kyiv Region follows with 19%, Zakarpattia Region with 17%, and Vinnytsia and Khmelnytskyi regions with 16% each. Lviv and Chernivtsi regions attracted 12% each.

Property types and housing arrangements

Private houses are the most preferred housing option, considered by 69% of respondents. Apartments are viewed as acceptable by 59%, rural houses by 33%, and townhouses or cottages by 11%.

Renting remains the primary accommodation strategy, chosen by 68% of potential movers, while 24% plan to purchase new housing.

Some rely on alternative options: 11% plan to use a second home or summer house, 10% consider temporary stay in dormitories or IDP hubs, and 7% expect to stay with relatives or friends for free.

Photo: RBC-Ukraine

Read also: Salaries in Ukraine are rising, but the labor shortage is intensifying in July 2026