Multigenerational Housing: A Time-Tested Solution for Modern Families

Multigenerational housing is having its moment—again. Sure, it's been all the buzz lately, but for those of us who grew up in close-knit families, this idea isn’t new. My grandparents’ house, for example, was a multigenerational home, a place where aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family lived under the same roof, sharing meals, memories, and responsibility. It wasn’t some trend—this was family.

As California’s housing market continues to skyrocket, that sense of community, and the financial practicality of sharing a home, is leading more people to embrace multigenerational living once again. But this time around, it’s not just about tradition—it’s about surviving in a market that feels increasingly out of reach. Let’s dive into why more families are leaning into this arrangement, what it means for wealth-building, and how to navigate the pros and cons of living together.

The Appeal of Multigenerational Living

1. Pooling Resources and Building Wealth
Here’s the thing: multigenerational living isn’t just about cozy family dinners and holidays together—it’s also a financial strategy. In a place like California, where housing is a major expense, sharing a home allows families to split the costs. Mortgage payments, utilities, property taxes—they all become much more manageable when shared among multiple people. For younger generations, it offers a way to get into the market without the soul-crushing burden of sky-high rents or unattainable home prices.

But here’s the kicker: while sharing costs is great for saving money, it can complicate wealth-building in other ways. The more people living in a space, the more collective decisions are needed—especially around things like property maintenance, who covers what costs, or how to divide up investments. It’s crucial to set clear expectations upfront, otherwise, the financial picture can get messy. Still, for many families, the trade-off is worth it.

2. Caregiving and Emotional Support
As life expectancy rises, multigenerational homes also become a practical solution for families caring for elderly relatives. Instead of relying on nursing homes or assisted living facilities, many families are keeping their loved ones close by, providing them with daily care while also saving money. Multigenerational living allows family members to support one another in ways that go beyond just finances—creating a deeply rooted sense of emotional security.

But, as with everything, this comes with its own complexities. Elder care requires more than just space—it requires patience, communication, and an ability to balance caregiving with other aspects of life. But when done right, this setup can be incredibly rewarding.

The Other Side: Potential Drawbacks

1. The Privacy Struggle
It’s one thing to have family over for the holidays, but living with them 24/7? That’s another story. Privacy becomes a major challenge when multiple generations share the same space. Parents may need a quiet retreat after a long day, or teenagers might just need their own room to escape the chaos. When everyone’s trying to carve out their own space, things can get a little crowded.

For those used to a bit more solitude, it’s crucial to think about how to manage these boundaries. The layout of the home becomes key—more on that in a minute. But even more important? Communication. Set clear guidelines about boundaries and respect for each other's time and space. After all, no one wants to feel like they’re living in a fishbowl.

2. Financial Complexities
On the flip side, while sharing financial responsibilities can ease the burden, it can also create tension. If one family member isn't able to contribute equally, or if financial priorities differ, things can get sticky. Open, honest conversations about money are essential—no one wants to deal with the awkwardness of misaligned expectations when it comes to expenses. And when it comes to long-term investments, how does everyone contribute to building wealth? That’s a question that needs to be answered together.

What to Look for in a Multigenerational Home

When it comes to finding the right house for multigenerational living, the key is flexibility. Here's what you’ll want to look for:

Separate Living Spaces
Multigenerational homes should offer more than just a couple of extra bedrooms. Think about how the space flows. Homes with independent living areas—like a guest suite, basement apartment, or a separate in-law unit—are ideal for giving each generation some room to breathe. Even homes with a larger floor plan, featuring separate bathrooms and multiple living areas, can provide the flexibility you need to coexist comfortably.

Accessibility Features (or the Ability to Add Them)
As more families take on the responsibility of caring for elderly relatives, accessibility features become a must. If you’re not interested in installing features like ramps or grab bars yourself, look for homes that already have them. However, if you find a home that’s otherwise perfect but lacks these features, many can be added—so it’s important to consider if that’s something you’re willing to take on.

Outdoor Space
Having access to a backyard or some outdoor space can make all the difference in a multigenerational home. It gives everyone a chance to unwind, work in the garden, or just get a change of scenery. It’s an area where people can carve out a bit of personal space—something especially important when there are multiple people in the house.

Where to Find Multigenerational Homes in California

If you’re looking for a multigenerational-friendly home in California, your best bet is to head to areas with larger homes and more square footage. Suburban areas like Riverside, parts of Ventura County, and the Inland Empire offer homes with enough space to accommodate multiple generations comfortably. You’ll also find options in smaller cities or more rural areas, where property sizes are bigger and more affordable than in heavily urbanized regions.

Multigenerational Housing and the LA Fires: What’s Changing?

The recent LA fires have added another layer of urgency to the conversation. With many homes destroyed or heavily damaged, families may need to come together in the rebuilding process. This could mean an increase in demand for larger homes that can accommodate multiple generations, particularly in affected areas. In the wake of such devastating losses, the idea of sharing space—and resources—becomes not only practical but necessary.

The Bottom Line

Multigenerational living is far more than a passing trend—it’s a return to the roots of community, especially in a housing market where affordability feels like a distant dream. Whether it's saving money, caring for loved ones, or building wealth together, multigenerational homes offer something more than just a place to live—they offer a way to live, as a family.

Would you ever consider living in a multigenerational home? Or maybe you already do? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!