Multigenerational living isn’t new — the concept of two or more adult generations sharing a roof is historically common. While it became less popular in the 20th century (possibly due to the rise of assisted living facilities and the increased affordability of independent living), the trend is slowly reversing.
In recent decades, real estate experts have noticed a major rise in multigenerational homes. As of 2024, 1 in 4 homeowners are living in multigenerational households, according to Angi’s State of Home Spending survey.
“With high interest rates, low housing inventory and shifts in how people live resulting from COVID-19, we’re seeing more people choosing to live in multigenerational homes,” says Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi. “Millennials who may not be able to afford their own home might consider moving in with parents. Parents who are aging may choose to move in with their children to help with childcare and help divide the expenses of owning a home.”
The National Association of Realtors’ 2025 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends report reveals that 17% of all home buyers purchased a multigenerational home between July 2023 and June 2024 – up from 14% the previous year. Generation X (those born between 1965 and 1980) are leading the way, with 21% buying multigenerational homes.
What is a multigenerational home?
A multigenerational home is a household where at least two adult generations reside under one roof. Multigenerational living can take various forms — think grandparents living with their children and grandchildren or adult children residing with their parents.
In a multigenerational home, the family often shares living spaces, but the pro may also be designed with separate common spaces.
Why is multigenerational living on the rise?
Multigenerational homes are becoming more popular due to a number of economic and social factors, from the rising cost of housing to longer life expectancies to the cultural impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the main reasons:
✔️ It saves money.
The biggest reason for purchasing a multigenerational home: Cost savings. According to NAR’s report, 36% of homebuyers chose a multigenerational home to save money. A family is available to split living expenses, like mortgage payments, rent, property taxes, utility bills and maintenance costs. Grandparents may also provide free childcare, or younger members may provide elder care.
✔️ There’s a housing shortage.
It’s true: There are not enough homes available for sale to meet the current demand from U.S. buyers. According to a report from Zillow, the U.S. is short 4.5 million homes and the housing deficit continues to grow. Sharing a home with relatives could be a simple solution.
✔️ Adult children are living with their parents.
Whether it’s due to student loan debt, the housing market or a cultural shift, it’s evident that adult children aren’t in a rush to move out of their parents’ homes. According to NAR’s report, 21% of multigenerational households exist because children over the age of 18 are moving back home, while an additional 20% of adult children never left.
✔️ The pandemic created a cultural shift.
The pandemic changed how people live in a lot of ways. According to a study from Generations United, Family Matters: Multigenerational Living is on the Rise and Here to Stay, 57% of people living in a multigenerational home say they started because of the COVID-19 pandemic — and 7 in 10 people say they plan to continue.
✔️ There’s a need for elder care.
The population is aging and more families are choosing to provide care for elderly relatives. According to NAR’s report, 25% of buyers purchased a multigenerational home to take care of aging parents.
How does multigenerational living impact the market?
Among buyers, there’s an increased demand for larger homes and flexible layouts, including homes with separate living areas often referred to as a mother-daughter home. Other popular features are accessible bathrooms and first-floor bedrooms for aging relatives.
“As people house hunt, they might look for homes that can accommodate an extra suite for parents or space that could be turned into an accessory dwelling unit, like a garage,” says Hicks.
This trend is also “reshaping home design and renovation priorities,” according to Hicks. “With 1 in 4 homeowners living in multigenerational households, these households are more likely to be taking on larger renovations and adding lifestyle-enhancing features to their homes.”
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
