As housing costs soar and families seek more sustainable ways of living, intergenerational housing—where multiple generations of a family live together under one roof or on the same property—has gained renewed interest.
In recent years, the concept of intergenerational housing—where multiple generations of a family share a living space or live nearby—has begun to make a quiet comeback.
While this model has long been common in many parts of the world, it fell out of favour in most of North America, largely due to deeply ingrained cultural values around independence, privacy, and individualism.
Cultural roots
Living with family members beyond 18 or into adulthood is heavily looked down on. The American dream consists of a nuclear family living in a cute house with a white picket fence. The parents have stable jobs, a car and funds to indulge in hobbies like tennis and camping.
It’s no longer the norm to live with your adult children or their children. In fact, doing so is a sign of poverty or low income. Living with your parents is deemed as a red flag in dating and is simply a symbol of lower social status.
This is where the trope of the “30 year old living in their parents basement” comes from, even though that 30 year old could be doing extremely well and lives with family by choice.
The appeal
As housing prices climb, caregiving costs rise, and social isolation becomes more prevalent, many are reconsidering the benefits of living under one roof and why it might be time to challenge some long-held assumptions.
Intergenerational housing is being revisited for its financial, emotional, and practical benefits. But it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons.
Pros of intergenerational housing
1. Shared expenses & financial relief
One of the most compelling advantages of intergenerational living is the sharing of household costs. Rent or mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and even child care or elder care can be distributed among family members, easing financial pressure—especially in high-cost cities or during economic downturns.
2. Greater Support
Having grandparents, parents, and children in the same home fosters a natural support network. Grandparents can help with childcare, while adult children can assist aging parents. This mutual support can reduce the need for costly external services like daycare or home care.
3. Stronger family bonds
Living together can promote closer relationships between generations. Children benefit from the wisdom and experience of older relatives, while seniors often feel a greater sense of purpose and connection when they’re actively involved in the family.
4. Efficient use of space & resources
Instead of each generation maintaining a separate household, intergenerational homes can be designed to optimize shared spaces, resulting in less environmental impact and more efficient use of land and utilities.
5. Mental wellness
Healthy and strong family bonds are proven to decrease mental health struggles, making people less susceptible to anxiety and depression. When we feel safe, supported and secure, we can manage stress and adversity with greater ease.
Social isolation can cause high levels of distress and personal strife.
Cons of intergenerational housing
1. Lack of privacy & personal space
One of the most common challenges is the lack of privacy. Multiple generations living together can make it difficult for individuals or couples to find quiet time or space of their own, which may lead to tension or burnout.
2. Generational differences & conflicts
Different lifestyles, habits, and values can cause friction. For example, younger family members may prioritize flexibility and independence, while older generations might adhere to traditional routines and roles.
3. Imbalanced caregiving
While intergenerational housing can reduce care costs, the burden of care—whether for young children or aging relatives—often falls disproportionately on one or two family members, which can develop role strain.
Without clear boundaries and shared responsibilities, this can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion as well as resent.
4. Legal & financial complications
Co-owning property or managing shared expenses can become complicated without proper planning. Disagreements about finances, inheritance, or household responsibilities can strain family relationships and may require legal guidance.
A trusted financial advisor can help streamline and organize your financial goals.
5. Increased stress & risk of depression
Living with family members who you’re uncomfortable being around, for whatever reason, is distressing and overwhelming. The weight of it can lead to significant stress and potentially develop into depression.
In extreme cases, it could trigger an underlying mental health condition, such as bipolar, to surface. Boundaries and managing needs/expectations is critical.
The best of both worlds?
Intergenerational housing can offer a more connected, cost-effective way of life, with benefits that extend beyond the immediate household. However, it’s not without its complications.
Success in this living arrangement often hinges on clear communication, shared values, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that balance privacy with communal living.
For families who are willing to navigate the challenges, intergenerational housing can be a rewarding solution that strengthens familial ties and provides mutual support in an increasingly fragmented world.
For more information on this topic, head to the Canada Alliance for Intergenerational Living’s website.
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