Key insights
- Multi-generational homes are becoming more popular as Americans are looking to save money on child/senior care, living costs and mortgages.
- If you’re searching for a multi-generational home, look for flexible layouts that allow for communal living and private spaces.
- Keep an eye out for keywords like multiple entrances, two kitchens, dual primary suites and more.
It’s estimated that 66.7 million U.S. citizens are living in a multi-generational household; that’s more than one in four Americans. This could be parents and their kids living with grandparents, adult children moving in with their parents or any other mix of two or more adult generations residing under one roof.
Here’s why multi-generational living is on the rise, why it might work for you and what to consider when looking for a home that will suit everyone’s needs.
Multi-generational homes are on the rise
According to the National Association of REALTORSⓇ (NAR) 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report, 17% of homes sold in 2025 were multi-generational. While these homes tend to sell for higher prices, multi-generation listings still get 13.5% more page views than standard homes.
While there are several reasons someone may choose to live with family in a multi-generational house, some of the more popular are to:
- Save money on housing and household expenses
- Take care of ill family members
- Help parents age in place
- Get help with child care
- Stay close to family
Many people going through transitions — such as newly single parents, recent college grads or those experiencing job loss — may have moved in with family temporarily, but found that the living situation benefited everyone and are now searching for a home that better accommodates all residents. This was especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic and has carried forward today.
Before you move: Make sure everyone is on board
If you’re thinking about moving in with relatives in a multi-generational house, you’ll first want to make sure that all adults are on the same page. Talk about:
- Space: How many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed? Are there any other space needs, like home offices? How many cars will need to be accommodated?
- Cost: What price range is comfortable and how will future bills be split?
- Location: Where do you want to put down roots and what cities are close to work, school, etc.?
- Duration: Is this a couple-of-years situation, or long-term? Are there future needs, like the birth of kids or aging parents, that need to be taken into consideration now?
Finding the right multi-generational home
Multi-generational homes can look a lot like single-family homes. Keep an eye out for some key words and terms that set multi-generational homes apart:
- Granny shed
- In-law suite
- Dual primary suites
- Separate entrances
- Flexible living space
- Guest house
Since you’ll have multiple generations living in the same space, it makes sense to look for other multiples in sought-after home features:
- Living spaces/living rooms
- Laundry rooms
- Kitchens/kitchenettes
- HVAC system or HVAC zoning
A few other home features to look out for:
- Accessible layout (especially if moving with aging parents) with railings, zero-step entrance, walk-in showers, one-floor living, etc.
- Soundproof interior walls and floors
- Large, open areas for gathering
- Space for cars and storage
Note that some homes can be remodeled or have a detached dwelling unit installed on the property (you’ll need to check with your HOA and local ordinances) to support multi-generational living. With some home updates, like adding a pathway to a secondary entrance in the backyard, changing a wet bar into a kitchenette or adding safety rails to stairs and bathrooms, you can turn your space into one that accommodates more people.
Just remember that you’re aiming for a space that allows for everyone to get together in the same space, as well as have their own private area. It’s also a good idea to consult a REALTOR to see if the home renovations will add value to your property for future resale, or if it makes more sense to take your equity and put it toward a home already suited for multi-generational living.
Planning is key
Moving just one household takes a lot of consideration; combining several households takes even more thoughtful planning. Take your time to make sure everyone is involved and happy with the space, especially since you’ll all be living in very close quarters.
Connect with an agent at Edina Realty to find a space that ticks all your must-haves and makes the whole family excited for your next chapter.