UPDATE: A new report reveals that the trend of multigenerational living in the United States has surged dramatically, quadrupling in just 50 years. According to the latest findings from Pew Research, the percentage of individuals living in multigenerational households jumped from 7% in 1971 to an astonishing 18% in 2021.
With the rising cost of living, many Americans are opting to move back in with family, creating a new norm for housing arrangements. As Stephen Simpson Inc. highlights, this shift is not only about financial relief but also about combating social isolation.
The report underscores a critical demographic shift: a growing number of solo-agers—older adults without children or who are estranged from family—lack the option of returning home. Bob Kramer, founder of the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care, states, “We have more and more solo-agers who didn’t have children or didn’t get married.” As the population ages, community becomes essential. Living arrangements that support intergenerational connections can be life-saving, preventing loneliness among older adults.
The National Association of Realtors has noted a marked increase in homebuyers seeking properties that cater to multigenerational living. Searches for accessory dwelling units, known as granny flats, surged in 2025, as families look to share housing costs and resources. These setups allow families to split rent, mortgage payments, and childcare expenses, providing financial relief during challenging economic times.
Despite the benefits, the rise of multigenerational living is not without its challenges. Many middle-income families find themselves in a bind, earning too much to qualify for government assistance but struggling to afford the costs of market-rate housing. Robyn Stone from LeadingAge warns, “The thing that’s concerning to a lot of us is that we really don’t have a lot of options for modest-income folks.”
Innovative solutions are emerging, particularly in purpose-built intergenerational communities. These neighborhoods are designed to foster connections between different age groups. One notable example is One Flushing in Queens, New York, a mixed-income complex boasting 231 apartments, with 66 reserved for older adults. The community center facilitates interactions, such as local high school students assisting older residents with technology.
As the trend continues to evolve, experts emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Multigenerational living may not appeal to everyone, but for many, it represents a viable option for both financial stability and emotional support. Sara Zeff Geber, a solo-aging consultant, stresses the importance of community, stating, “The bottom line for solo-agers is that they need community.”
This growing trend of multigenerational and intergenerational living arrangements is reshaping the landscape of American housing. With rising costs and social isolation concerns, families are forced to rethink traditional living situations. As this urgent situation develops, the conversation around housing solutions for all age groups remains critical.
Are you living in a multigenerational household? Share your experience with us at [email protected].
