Why Did Ree Drummond Downsize? The Shocking Reason Behind Her Family’s Move!

Ree Drummond, better known as “The Pioneer Woman,” has long been associated with her iconic Oklahoma ranch, where she films her Food Network show and raised her children.

For years, fans have admired the warmth and charm of her family’s sprawling home, which was as much a character in her story as the people themselves.

However, in December, Ree and her husband, Ladd, quietly made a significant change—they moved out of their longtime family home.

The news only recently surfaced, leaving fans curious about why they decided to relocate and what their new living situation looks like.

The Drummond family’s decision to leave their home was not made lightly.

In an interview with People, Ree explained that the house, which was nearly 50 years old, had developed serious foundation issues and other structural problems.

These issues would have been overwhelming to fix, prompting the couple to consider their options.

Interestingly, the home held sentimental value, as it was the house Ladd himself grew up in.

But practicality won out, and the Drummonds decided it was time for a change.

Despite moving, the Drummonds didn’t go far—just a few steps, to be exact.

Ree and Ladd built a smaller, more modern home right next to their old one on their vast ranch property in Pawhuska, Oklahoma.

This new house, which they moved into in December, is temporary and will eventually serve as a guest house.

For now, however, it’s their primary residence.

Ree described the move as comically simple: “We packed up our things and walked across the yard. It was so funny.”

The new home is a marked departure from the traditional, rustic style fans might expect from the Drummond family.

Instead, it features a more modern design, which surprised many of Ree’s followers when she shared glimpses of the interior on Instagram.

While the house is smaller and simpler, Ree and Ladd have found it to be comfortable and cozy.

“We had to be very selective about what we brought here,” Ree shared, noting that downsizing has forced them to prioritize what truly matters.

Even though this move is a temporary solution, Ree and Ladd have plans to build a new “main house” on their property in the future.

However, they have no intention of creating a massive mansion.

Ree revealed that their future home will have just one or two bedrooms, emphasizing simplicity over grandeur.

For now, they are content in their current space, which has become a cozy haven for both them and their two dogs.

Ree shared a sweet anecdote about how the dogs have taken to the new house, setting up camp on the front porch and rarely leaving unless the family is away.

The move isn’t the only change happening in the Drummond household.

With only their youngest son, Todd, still living at home, Ree and Ladd are adjusting to “almost empty nest” life.

The pandemic also brought about a significant shift in Ree’s career.

When travel restrictions were in place, her usual filming crew couldn’t work on The Pioneer Woman.

Instead, Ree’s children stepped in as her production team, creating a stripped-back, more natural version of the show.

This change not only allowed Ree to spend more time with her kids but also gave the show a fresh, off-the-cuff feel that resonated with viewers.

Now, as the original filming crew prepares to return, Ree is considering how to merge the two eras of her show—the polished, professional production of the past and the intimate, family-oriented style of the pandemic years.

“We’ve all been talking and kind of want to create a new version of the show that sort of marries the two eras,” Ree said.

She expressed excitement about the possibilities, hinting that the show’s evolution will continue to reflect her family’s changing dynamics.

Ree’s move and her plans for the future are a testament to her adaptability and commitment to keeping things fresh, both in her personal life and her career.

Downsizing has allowed her and Ladd to embrace a simpler lifestyle, while the upcoming changes to her show promise to keep fans engaged and connected to the Drummond family’s journey.

Ultimately, Ree Drummond’s story is one of growth and evolution.

While she may be known for her hearty recipes and ranch life, her willingness to embrace change—whether it’s moving to a smaller home, adjusting to an empty nest, or reimagining her show—demonstrates her resilience and authenticity.

For fans, these changes only make Ree more relatable and endearing, proving that even “The Pioneer Woman” is constantly finding new ways to adapt and thrive.