Why Multigenerational Living Is on the Rise: Connection, Cost, and Care
You’ve probably noticed more families choosing to live together across generations - parents, kids, and grandparents all under one roof. What might surprise you is just how big this trend has become.
Today, nearly 1 in 5 Americans - about 60 million people - live in multigenerational households. That number has quadrupled since the 1970s (Pew Research Center). In 2024, 17% of homebuyers purchased a multigenerational home - the highest share ever recorded (NAR). And leading the trend? Gen X buyers in their 40s and 50s, with about 21% choosing homes designed for multiple generations.
So why is multigenerational living booming right now? It comes down to what I call the 3 Cs: Connection, Cost, and Care.
The Benefits of Multigenerational Living
1. Connection
After the pandemic, families want to be closer. Living together builds stronger bonds, creates daily support, and allows generations to share life in meaningful ways.
2. Cost
Pooling incomes makes homeownership possible for more families. In Massachusetts, for example, the median home price has nearly tripled in the last 30 years, while household incomes haven’t kept pace. By sharing expenses, families can afford homes they couldn’t on their own.
3. Care
Multigenerational setups make it easier to care for aging parents and support adult children moving back home. Flexible layouts mean everyone gets privacy and proximity.
What These Homes Look Like
Multigenerational living doesn’t mean everyone is piled into the same kitchen. Today’s homes often include:
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In-law suites
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Finished basements with separate entrances
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Accessory apartments or back-yard bungalows (ADUs)
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Flexible floor plans with private wings
It’s about creating independence and togetherness in the same home.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Of course, living together under one roof can bring challenges. The most common mistakes I see are:
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Not setting boundaries and agreements around meals, expenses, and privacy.
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Under-communicating with extended family members about care expectations.
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Skipping the financing strategy - many families don’t realize they can qualify for a mortgage jointly, explore tools like reverse mortgages, or structure a completely unique financial arragement.
A Quick History Lesson
Generations ago, multigenerational living was the norm in the U.S., as it still is in many countries today. After WWII, cultural and policy shifts encouraged the “nuclear family dream” of each household living independently in the suburbs. Independence was marketed as success, and living with extended family started to carry a stigma.
Now, the pendulum is swinging back. Housing affordability issues, longer life expectancies, and post-pandemic priorities are bringing families together again.
Massachusetts Leads with ADUs
A huge change is happening here in Massachusetts: as of February 2025, homeowners can now build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) statewide by right in single-family zones.
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Up to 900 square feet or 50% of the main home’s size (whichever is larger)
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Separate entrance required
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No special permits needed
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Municipalities cannot require owner-occupancy, limit to relatives only, or enforce excessive parking rules
This new law makes it far easier to add an in-law suite, basement apartment, or backyard cottage - opening the door for thousands of new multigenerational options across the state.
My Own Multigen Story
This isn’t just professional for me - it’s personal. For nearly 10 years, I've lived in a multigenerational home with my husband, kids, and my mom. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. We've saved money, shared caregiving, and built memories that we’ll carry forever.
That lived experience is why I now help clients navigate multigenerational living - whether they’re upsizing, reconfiguring, or exploring new options like ADUs.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
I created a free Multi-Generational Living Guide with everything I wish I’d known before combining households with my mom. It’s full of tips, pitfalls to avoid, and planning ideas to make multigenerational living successful.
