Living with your parents as an adult, or having your grown-up children (and maybe even their children too!) move back in, used to be seen as something of an emergency measure – a temporary fix until finances or circumstances improved. But times are changing. Multigenerational living – where two or more generations of the same family share a home – is becoming increasingly common in the UK.

Why? Rising living costs, expensive childcare, and flexible working are just a few reasons families are choosing to live together for longer. But is it all happy family dinners and shared responsibilities, or could it lead to battles over personal space and differing lifestyles? Let’s take a closer look at the pros, the challenges, and whether it could work for you.

Why Are More Families Choosing Multigenerational Living?

The numbers tell an interesting story. A recent survey found that one in six homeowners planning home extensions were doing so to accommodate multiple generations under one roof. Meanwhile, more than two-fifths of UK homeowners are planning renovations in the next two years, with many aiming to create more flexible living spaces. Clearly, the traditional family home is evolving.

So, what’s driving this shift?

1. Financial Pressures

Let’s be honest – housing isn’t cheap. With house prices and rents climbing steadily, younger generations are struggling to afford their own place. At the same time, older generations may be looking to downsize or save on living costs. Sharing a home can be a practical way to pool resources and lighten the financial burden for everyone.

2. The Rise of Flexible Working

Working from home has become a permanent fixture for many. Some families are adapting their living spaces to include home offices or areas for business ventures. In fact, a quarter of those extending their homes say home working is a key reason behind their decision. Multigenerational living can also make work-life balance easier – grandparents helping with childcare, for instance, means parents can work without the stress of juggling school runs and meetings.

3. Family Support and Care

Multigenerational households often offer built-in support networks. Grandparents can help with childcare, while younger generations can assist with elderly care. With care home costs rising and many older adults preferring to stay in familiar surroundings, sharing a home can be a solution that benefits all ages.

4. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

A surprising factor influencing home changes is energy efficiency. More than half of homeowners have already made improvements, and many more plan to. A larger, shared home can sometimes be more energy-efficient than running multiple separate households, especially if families invest in upgrades like better insulation and solar panels.

The Benefits of Multigenerational Living

If you’ve ever thought about moving in with family (or having them move in with you), you’re probably wondering what the real perks are. Here are some of the biggest advantages:

1. Shared Costs

Splitting mortgage payments, utility bills, and food costs can make life more affordable for everyone. At a time when many people are struggling with the cost of living, sharing expenses can provide some much-needed financial relief.

2. Built-in Childcare

For parents, having grandparents around can be a lifesaver. Whether it’s school runs, babysitting, or just an extra pair of hands during the bedtime chaos, having family nearby can make life a lot easier (and cheaper than nursery fees!).

3. Companionship and Emotional Support

Loneliness is a growing problem, particularly among older adults. Living together means there’s always someone to chat with, whether it’s a quick cup of tea in the morning or a full Sunday roast with the whole family.

4. More Efficient Use of Space

With more families extending or renovating their homes to accommodate different generations, houses are being designed with flexibility in mind. Separate entrances, independent living areas, and shared communal spaces mean families can live together while still maintaining their own routines.

The Challenges of Living Together

Of course, living with family isn’t always easy. Here are some of the common challenges that come with multigenerational living:

1. Lack of Privacy

Even in the biggest homes, finding personal space can be tricky. If everyone has different schedules, sleep patterns, or social habits, tensions can arise. Creating designated private areas – whether through renovations or just setting boundaries – can make things smoother.

2. Different Lifestyles and Expectations

One generation’s idea of ‘tidy’ might not match another’s. Meal preferences, noise levels, and even TV choices can become points of contention. Open communication and compromise are key.

3. Financial Disagreements

While sharing costs can be a big benefit, it also requires clear discussions about who pays for what. From household bills to major renovations, sorting out financial contributions early can prevent stress down the line.

4. Changing Family Dynamics

Parents moving back in with their adult children – or vice versa – can sometimes blur traditional roles. Setting clear expectations from the start can help everyone adjust to the new setup.

Here’s a great Ted talk that discusses multigenerational living.

Is Multigenerational Living Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but if you’re considering it, here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Can we create enough space for everyone’s needs? Even in smaller homes, careful planning (like separate living areas) can help.
• Are we financially aligned? Having honest conversations about money before moving in together is essential.
• How will responsibilities be shared? From cooking to cleaning, agreeing on household duties can prevent future arguments.
• Do we have good communication? Living together requires openness, respect, and compromise.

If the benefits outweigh the challenges and everyone’s on board, multigenerational living can be a great solution. It’s not just about saving money – it’s about building a home where family support is at the heart of daily life.

Would it work for you? That depends on your family’s dynamic, space, and willingness to make it work. But one thing’s for sure – as more UK families embrace multigenerational living, homes are evolving to meet the needs of modern family life.