1,000 Communities — and Counting!

With its enrollment on September 3, 2025, the City of Hudson, New York, becomes the 1,000th community to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.

Located along the Hudson River, Hudson is home to about 5,700 people, a quarter of whom are age 60 or older. The city is planning to expand public transit options; make its sidewalks more accessible; promote affordable housing initiatives; and develop aging in place programs so older adults can live independently and safely in the community. 

Hudson is "proud to be the 1,000th city," said Mayor Kamal Johnson (pictured, second from right). "One of the main themes in our recently completed comprehensive plan is making Hudson more age-friendly. Joining this network solidifies our commitment to that goal and brings us into a new network of support and resources from other organizations and communities."

Launched in 2012, the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities helps local leaders and residents design and implement strategies that support healthy aging. Participating communities focus on key areas that shape daily life, from housing and transportation to social participation and health services.

Nearly 40 percent of Americans currently live in a community that's enrolled in the AARP network. Many localities embed age-friendly strategies into comprehensive plans, zoning laws and transportation policies. 

“Reaching 1,000 communities in the AARP Age-Friendly Network is a milestone that has real impact,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer. “When we design our neighborhoods with aging in mind, everyone benefits. Age-friendly initiatives lead to safer streets, more affordable housing, stronger local economies and improved quality of life for people of all ages.” 

Related Links:

• From AARP New York: AARP Network Reaches 1,000 Communities as New York Communities Help Lead the Way

• From the AARP Press Room: Age-Friendly Cities on the Rise: AARP Network Reaches 1,000 Communities as Local Policy Shifts Take Hold

• From AARP Livable Communities: New York State Joins the Age-Friendly Network