Interest in multigenerational living has grown in recent years, driven by high housing costs, limited housing availability, the potential to reduce carbon footprints through shared resources and the need for affordable care for both children and older adults. Beyond these practical considerations, research points to clear social benefits. Children in these environments show increased resilience, stronger social skills, a greater sense of belonging and reduced ageist stereotypes. Older adults benefit from opportunities to nurture and mentor, finding purpose in contributing to younger generations. And, due to the increased social interaction in these situations, persons of all ages experience reduced loneliness.
Above: Part of a new community near Chattanooga, the Legacy Series homes at Patterson Farms have flexible floor plans that respond to multigen living. The exterior features dedicated entrances for the occupants, in a harmonious design. Photo: Chris Kopp
A Market with Momentum
Approximately 20% of Americans live in a multigenerational household. These arrangements are often temporary, lasting an average of 2.5 years. The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies reports that in 2021, 10.9 million older adults lived with at least one adult relative of another generation, an 81% increase from 6.0 million in 2006. Among older people aged 65-79, 14% of white, 26% of Black, 38% of Hispanic, 43% of Asian and 23% of those of another race or who are multiracial live in multigenerational households.
16% of adults aged 65-79 and 37% of those 80 and over report an ambulatory difficulty, but most housing is not accessible; when last measured in 2011, fewer than 4% of homes offered the three foundational features of accessible housing: single-floor living, no-step entries and wide hallways and doorways.
Focusing on owner-occupied homes, data from realtor.com indicates four million of those homes had at least a parent, a kid and a grandparent under one roof in 2024. Online listings for these properties get about 14% more page views than the typical home.
Understanding the Scope – and Solutions
That’s a lot of information to absorb. To help, NKBA- and IDS-member Lori Carpenter of Ash Flat, Ark.-based Lori Carpenter Designs created a platform dubbed “The 3rd Phase” that consists of a live Instagram series and a Facebook community. She interviews guests who are expert in home, health, beauty, travel and wealth management for older persons…