Nuclear living isn’t the norm like it once was. Multigenerational homes are back and trending fast.

When it comes to living with parents, there has always been this invisible contract that everyone follows. You stay at home with them until you are 18, and then you step out on your own. This is just how it has been going on. However, in recent years, we have seen more individuals choose to stay with their parents longer. Even older Canadians with kids are buying houses for sale in Brampton with their parents and living as one big family.  This trend is what we call multigenerational living. 

Multigenerational Living – What Is It and How It Actually Works?

Multigenerational living is when multiple generations of the same family live together under one roof. This style of living isn’t exactly new. In fact, it was once the norm in many cultures worldwide. In multigenerational homes, you will typically find these generations:

• Grandparents
• Parents
• Adult children
• Grandchildren

Multigenerational living isn’t limited to this list, though. Some families in multigenerational homes also include aunts, uncles, or even cousins under the same roof. The setup really depends on the needs and culture of each family. 

In multigenerational homes, family members share household responsibilities as well as expenses. Everyone plays their part in creating a household where everyone can live comfortably while respecting each other’s space and routines.

Multigenerational Living Is on the Rise for a Reason

As stated before, the trend of sharing a home with three or more generations isn’t new. This living arrangement has always been common among immigrants and in some cultures. But today, multigenerational living is becoming popular among all kinds of families. In fact, it is one of the fastest-growing family household types in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, 6.4% of Canadians were living in multigenerational homes in 2021. That’s a 50% jump since 2021!

So, why are more families choosing to live this way? Let’s explore the reasons driving this growing trend.

Home Prices Are Out of Reach

Let’s face it – home prices are through the roof. For many families, buying a home in Brampton has just become out of reach. This is especially true for first-time homebuyers who are trying to get into the market, as well as seniors on fixed incomes. This is where multigenerational living comes to the rescue. By pooling resources, families can afford larger houses for sale in Brampton that they might not be able to buy on their own. Grandparents who have paid off their previous home mortgage can contribute to the down payment. Adult children can help with mortgage payments, easing everyone’s financial burden. 

Childcare and Senior Care Costs is Through the Roof

Childcare in Canada comes with a hefty price tag. Full-time daycare can cost thousands of dollars a year, putting a huge strain on family budgets. Senior care isn’t cheap, either. Whether it’s in-home or assisted living facilities, the expenses can add up quickly. Multigenerational living offers a cost-effective solution to this. When grandparents, parents, and children live together, they can help take care of each other. Grandparents can look after the kids while the parents are at work, saving thousands in childcare costs. In turn, adult children can help take care of their ageing parents, eliminating the need for expensive senior care services.

Splitting Household Expenses

When three generations live together, they can share the costs of daily living. They can split the utilities, groceries, property taxes, and home maintenance bills. This makes day-to-day life more affordable for everyone involved. Shared expenses also mean more financial security. If one family member faces a job loss or financial setback, others can step in to help out. This provides a safety net that’s hard to achieve when living alone. 

Closer Bonds and Emotional Support

Money isn’t the only reason families are choosing to live together. The emotional and social benefits of multigenerational living are just as compelling. When a family lives together, they get a chance to build closer bonds. Children can grow up surrounded by grandparents who care, share stories, and teach them about their heritage, as well as other life lessons. For grandparents, living with their children and grandchildren keeps them socially engaged, reducing feelings of loneliness. Multigenerational living also offers emotional support during tough times. Whether it’s the challenges of parenting, the stress of work, or the difficulties of ageing, having loved ones close by makes it easier to cope. 

Home Designs Are Evolving

One of the challenges of multigenerational living used to be the lack of suitable housing designs. But that’s changing. Builders are now designing homes with flexible living spaces that can accommodate multiple generations under one roof. These homes often come with separate living areas, multiple master suites and even in-law units with private entrances. This allows each generation to have their own space and privacy while still being part of the same household. With these modern home designs, multigenerational living has never been more comfortable or practical. 

There Are Some Cons to Multigenerational Living – Keep That in Mind

Sure, multigenerational living has its benefits but it is not without its challenges. For starters, privacy can be a big issue in these houses. Conflicts can also happen more often. You might have daily conflicts over routines, chores, or even the thermostat setting! Next, money can be a tricky topic in the multigenerational living setup. Shared expenses can lead to financial tension, especially if one family member’s situation changes unexpectedly. But if these challenges don’t sound like deal breakers to you, then a multigenerational home might be perfect for you. 

Ultimately, it all comes down to your lifestyle, family dynamics, and what you are comfortable with. If you are ready to embrace the ups and downs that come with living under one roof with multiple generations, go for it! This could be one of the most rewarding decisions you make.