UPDATE: The landscape of American living arrangements is shifting dramatically as the number of multigenerational households has quadrupled from 1971 to 2021, according to Pew Research. With the rising cost of living, more families are opting to live together, marking a significant change in societal norms that could reshape communities across the country.
The share of people living in multigenerational households has soared from 7% to 18% in just fifty years. This trend is driven by escalating housing costs, prompting many Americans to move back in with family or choose homes designed for multiple generations. The National Association of Realtors reports that homebuyers are increasingly seeking properties that accommodate multigenerational living, including features like in-law suites and accessory dwelling units.
As many families band together to share expenses, this arrangement offers financial relief from soaring rent and mortgage payments. Moreover, it combats social isolation, particularly among older adults. Bob Kramer, founder of the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care, emphasizes the rising number of solo-agers—those without children or supportive family ties—who face the challenges of living alone.
“We have more and more solo-agers who didn’t have children or didn’t get married,” Kramer stated. This demographic shift highlights a vital need for community to fend off loneliness, according to Sara Zeff Geber, a consultant specializing in solo aging. “The bottom line for solo-agers is that they need community,” she explains.
Intergenerational living arrangements are emerging as a creative solution. These setups range from older homeowners sharing their spaces with younger housemates to purpose-built communities designed for all ages. A recent 2024 report on intergenerational living noted successful examples like One Flushing in Queens, New York, which features 231 apartments, including 66 reserved for older adults. The complex integrates communal areas, fostering connections between residents of different generations.
While the trend is gaining traction, affordability remains a critical concern. Middle-income families often find themselves caught in a financial limbo, earning too much to qualify for government assistance but not enough to afford market-rate housing. Robyn Stone, senior vice president at LeadingAge, warns that options for modest-income individuals are increasingly limited.
Despite the growing popularity of multigenerational living, experts caution against viewing it as a one-size-fits-all solution. Diverse preferences and circumstances exist across age groups, including Baby Boomers and Gen Zers. “I don’t think I would want to open my house to anybody if I were living alone,” Stone reflects. However, she recognizes the potential benefits of intentional intergenerational communities as people age.
As this trend continues to evolve, it raises important questions about the future of living arrangements in America. Families seeking to navigate the challenges of modern life may find that the answer lies in coming together.
Are you part of a multigenerational household or an intergenerational community? Share your experiences with us at [email protected].
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more families adapt to new living arrangements in response to economic pressures.
