Why More People Are Living in Multi-Generational Homes Today

Multi-family living is getting more and more common in recent years. What are the reasons behind this trend? Is it driven by financial, cultural, social reasons? Or maybe all?

Financial Reasons

Money matters are a key factor driving the rise in multigenerational living.

A 2022 Pew Research Center study showed that around one-third of people in multigenerational homes did so for financial reasons. Living together helps families share resources. This lowers the financial strain on each person.

Caregiving Responsibilities

Caregiving is another significant factor. A Pew Research Center report found that one-third of adults in multigenerational homes say caregiving is a main reason they live together. Specifically, one out of four surveyed people said that caring for their elders was the reason of their choice and 12% said it was to help with child care. Living together helps family members care for each other, whether they are young or old.

Cultural Influences

Cultural norms also play a role in multigenerational living. It is often seen in foreign-born Americans. About 26% of them live in these households versus the 17% of U.S.-born Americans who do the same. This reflects traditions in which extended family living is a common practice.

The COVID-19 Pandemic

A study by Generations United found that the number of people in the US living in multigenerational homes with three or more generations living together nearly quadrupled in the past decade. The numbers nearly tripled from 2011 to 2021. According to the study almost 6 in 10 people live in multigenerational households. They either moved together due to the COVID-19 pandemic or were living together at the time and stayed living together.

Demographic Trends

Demographic changes contribute as well. 7.2% of U.S. families lived in multigenerational situations in 2020. Also, 8.4% of kids under 18 lived with their grandparents. They showed an increase since 2010.

More and more families are choosing to live together for one reason or another. The increase in multigenerational living is changing family dynamics and housing markets. This shows how people adapt to economic challenges, caregiving needs, and cultural values.

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Posted by Judit Crace on February 6th, 2025