Maybe Moving Back In With Family Isn’t So Bad?

The Real Estate Industry Is Taking Notice Of The Rise In Multigenerational Living

It’s a term we are hearing often out “in the field”

Did you know that, while this living arrangement hit a low in the 1970s, multigenerational households have more than doubled from 1971 to 2021?  Today, one in five Americans lives in what we would define as a “multi-gen home.”

SOOOOO… What Is a Multigenerational Home

It sounds fancier than it is

There ya have it, pretty straightforward

Rising housing costs, student loan burdens, and the appeal of family support are driving this trend. It’s important to note the pandemic has also made assisted living less appealing, prompting more elderly Americans to move in with family.

Personally, my parents have been living with us since 2023, and while it has come with its fair share of adjustments, the experience has been incredibly rewarding. 

We have learned to navigate new family dynamics—whether it is figuring out who gets the TV remote or finding time for everyone’s different routines. However, the emotional benefits of having them close have far outweighed the challenges. I have loved seeing my parents bond more with Adam, and the extra help and companionship have been a blessing in many ways.

It’s important to remember there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to multi-generational living, so you do you and ultimately decide whether the pros outweigh the cons.

However, let’s not ignore the benefits this living dynamic can offer, including in-home childcare, pooled financial resources, and shared expenses. The emotional benefits are significant, too; younger adults may seek independence, but older family members often appreciate the companionship, which helps alleviate loneliness.

As this lifestyle becomes more common, the real estate market is starting to adapt. While I will say many homes and apartments are still designed with nuclear families or young professionals in mind, we’re getting there slowly. As economic and cultural factors continue to drive this trend, the real estate industry is starting to respond to the growing demand and now we see more of the 2 bedrooms downstairs, mother in law suite, even a guest house layout! 

If you have been thinking about creating a home that works for everyone in your family, or if you have noticed this trend in your own family or community, I would love to hear your thoughts. And if you need help finding a space that suits your unique needs, I am always here to help.

Till next time.

-Sakina