Why Multi-Generational Living is on The Rise

You’ve probably noticed more families choosing to live together across generations—parents, children, and grandparents all under one roof. What might surprise you is just how significant this trend has become, especially here on the South Shore of Massachusetts.

Today, nearly 1 in 5 Americans—approximately 60 million people—reside in multigenerational households. According to the Pew Research Center, that number has quadrupled since the 1970s. In 2024, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reported that 17% of homebuyers purchased a multigenerational home, the highest share ever recorded.

Leading this movement are Gen X buyers in their 40s and 50s; about 21% of this demographic are specifically seeking homes designed for multiple generations to accommodate both aging parents and young adult children.

Key Takeaways

• Building equity together helps offset the high cost of real estate in Massachusetts.
• New 2025 state laws make it easier to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
• Connectivity and shared caregiving are the primary emotional drivers of this trend.
• Success requires clear boundaries and a solid joint financing strategy.

The Benefits of Multigenerational Living: The 3 Cs

As families from Quincy down to Plymouth look for creative housing solutions, the boom in multigenerational living consistently comes down to three pillars: Connection, Cost, and Care.

1. Connection

After the pandemic, families have a renewed desire to be closer. Living together builds stronger emotional bonds, provides daily social support, and allows different generations to share life’s meaningful moments more frequently than a holiday visit allows.

2. Cost

In Massachusetts, the median home price has nearly tripled in the last 30 years, while household incomes have not kept pace. Pooling incomes makes homeownership accessible for many families. By sharing a mortgage and utilities, families can afford higher-quality homes in desirable towns like Hingham, Norwell, or Duxbury that they might not qualify for on a single-family income.

3. Care

Multigenerational setups simplify the logistics of caring for aging parents or supporting adult children moving back home. Flexible floor plans offer a "Goldilocks" solution: everyone maintains their privacy while remaining in close proximity for assistance or supervision.

What Modern Multigenerational Homes Look Like

Multigenerational living no longer means everyone is cramped into a single kitchen. Today’s property designs focus on "autonomous togetherness," featuring layouts often found in homes across the South Shore, including:

• In-law suites: Dedicated wings with their own bathrooms and sitting areas.
• Finished basements: Walk-out lower levels with separate entrances and kitchenettes.
• ADUs: Accessory Dwelling Units, such as backyard bungalows or carriage houses.
• Dual Primary Suites: Homes featuring two large bedrooms with en-suite baths, often one on the first floor and one on the second.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Combining Households

While the benefits are numerous, living under one roof requires intentional planning. The most common mistakes include:

• Failing to Set Boundaries: Not establishing clear agreements around shared meals, grocery expenses, and private "no-knock" zones.
• Under-communicating: Not discussing long-term care expectations with extended family members before the move.
• Skipping the Financing Strategy: Families often don’t realize they can qualify for joint mortgages, utilize reverse mortgages for older family members, or structure unique legal ownership agreements.

The Pendulum Swings Back: A Historical Context

Generations ago, multigenerational living was the standard in the U.S. Following WWII, cultural shifts and government policies encouraged the "nuclear family dream" in the suburbs. Independence was marketed as the ultimate sign of success, and living with extended family began to carry a social stigma.

Today, the pendulum is swinging back. Housing affordability challenges, longer life expectancies, and shifting post-pandemic priorities are making shared living an aspirational choice once again.

Massachusetts Leads with New ADU Legislation

A significant legislative shift is happening in our state. As of February 2025, Massachusetts homeowners can build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) "by right" in single-family zones. This means towns like Scituate, Cohasset, and Hanover must allow these units without requiring special permits.

• Size Limits: Units can be up to 900 square feet or 50% of the main home’s size (whichever is larger).
• Privacy: A separate entrance is required for the ADU.
• Fewer Barriers: Municipalities cannot force owner-occupancy, limit the unit to relatives only, or enforce excessive parking requirements.

This law opens the door for thousands of homeowners to add in-law suites or backyard cottages, significantly increasing the inventory of multigenerational options in the region.

A Personal Perspective on Shared Living

This isn’t just professional for me—it’s personal. For nearly 10 years, I’ve lived in a multigenerational home with my husband, our kids, and my mom. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

We’ve successfully shared expenses, distributed the responsibilities of caregiving, and built memories our children will cherish forever. This lived experience is why I’m passionate about helping my clients in Weymouth, Braintree, and beyond navigate the complexities of upsizing or reconfiguring their homes for their own families.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

I created a free Multi-Generational Living Guide featuring everything I wish I’d known before combining households. It’s packed with tips, pitfalls to avoid, and planning ideas to ensure your transition is successful.

You can grab your free copy right here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a multigenerational home?

A multigenerational home is a single residential property designed to house two or more adult generations under one roof. These homes typically feature separate living areas, such as in-law suites or accessory dwelling units, to provide both privacy and proximity.

Are ADUs legal in all Massachusetts towns?

As of February 2025, a new state law allows homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) "by right" in single-family zoning districts across Massachusetts. While towns can still regulate certain design aspects, they generally cannot prohibit their construction or require special permits.

How does financing work for a multigenerational home purchase?

Families can often qualify for a mortgage jointly, allowing the combined income and assets of multiple generations to be used for the loan application. Other options include using a reverse mortgage for purchase (HECM for Purchase) or creating a family trust to manage the equity and ownership shares.

Does adding an in-law suite increase property value?

Yes, adding a legal in-law suite or ADU typically increases property value and marketability, especially in high-demand areas like the South Shore. These features are highly sought after by buyers looking for rental income potential or space for extended family.