Across America, families are rediscovering a style of living that was once common: multigenerational living. According to Pew Research Center, this trend has grown steadily since the 1970s, with the number of people in multigenerational households quadrupling over the past fifty years. Today, close to 20% of U.S. homes are multigenerational homes. Here in Portland, this trend is reshaping how families think about housing and community.
To understand what makes these living arrangements successful, let’s look at a scenario that represents the experiences of many families in Portland’s 55+ real estate market.
“If you’d told me a year ago that moving in with my son’s family would give me more independence, not less, I wouldn’t have believed you,” says James, a representative example of many seniors who transition to multigenerational living. “But here I am, teaching my grandsons about how an actual garden works, having dinner together most nights, and still having my own space and lifestyle when I want it.”
When families explore multi-generational living, they often focus first on practical concerns – is there enough space? How will we handle the finances? What about privacy? These are crucial questions, but as an example like James’s demonstrates, the benefits of sharing life more closely with family often exceed expectations.
Recent AARP research supports these positive experiences: 58% of people in multi-generational households report finding the arrangement convenient, while 54% describe it as rewarding. While the impetus for forming multi-generational homes is usually practical – 40% cite financial benefits, 33% point to caregiving needs, and 28% are looking for sustainable long-term living arrangements, there is so much more to potentially look forward to for families who are considering joining the growing trend.
A Day in the Life: Three Generations Under One Roof
For James’s son and daughter-in-law, Sarah, the arrangement brought unexpected benefits beyond practical advantages. “Having Papa Jim here isn’t just about saving money or helping with the kids,” Sarah reflects. “It’s about having a more meaningful family life. Whether it’s sharing morning coffee or hearing stories about his own parenting journey with my husband and sister-in-law, we’re getting to know him in a whole new way.”
But successful multi-generational living isn’t something that just happens. It takes thoughtful planning, open communication, and usually some creative approaches to using space.
Space and Privacy
In this example, James’s private basement suite includes a sitting area and small kitchenette. “Having my own space to retreat to makes the time we’re all together even better,” he explains.
Key considerations for any family to address:
– Private spaces for each generation, including separate bathrooms when possible
– Sound management between living areas (particularly important for different sleep schedules)
– Thoughtfully designed shared spaces that encourage interaction (e.g. a big kitchen table)
– Clear guest policies and quiet hours
– Storage solutions for each family member’s belongings
Daily Rhythms and Routines
“We had to figure out our dance,” Sarah says, describing how the family coordinates their routines. “Now Papa Jim helps with school mornings, we share dinners at least 3 nights a week, but we also respect each other’s independent time and space.”
Successful families typically discuss:
– Kitchen scheduling and meal sharing expectations
– Morning and evening routines, especially in shared spaces
– Cleaning responsibilities and standards
– Personal time expectations and how to communicate needs for space
– Parking arrangements and vehicle access
– Pet care responsibilities and boundaries
Financial and Household Management
While every family’s arrangement is unique, common areas to address include:
– Shared utility costs and bill management
– Grocery shopping and meal planning
– Home maintenance responsibilities
– Joint investment in home modifications or improvements
– Emergency fund contributions
– Documentation of financial agreements
Why Portland Families Choose Multigenerational Living: Benefits for Each Generation
When families consider sharing a home or property, it’s important to understand how the arrangement can enhance life for each generation. Let’s look at what research and experience tell us about the potential benefits – and challenges – for everyone involved.
For Grandparents:
– Meaningful daily engagement with family
– Built-in support system while maintaining independence
– Opportunities to share skills and stories
– Regular social interaction
– Reduced living expenses
– Easier access to help when needed
For Adult Children:
– Trusted childcare support
– Shared household responsibilities
– Deeper relationships with parents
– Financial advantages of shared resources
– Peace of mind about parent’s well-being
– Built-in mentoring for their children
For Grandchildren:
– Strong bonds with grandparents
– Natural transmission of family history and traditions
– Additional adult attention and support
– Richer family experiences
– Development of empathy and understanding of aging
– Exposure to different perspectives and life experiences
Is Multi-Generational Living Right for Your Family?
Consider these positive indicators:
– Open communication patterns
– Shared values around family life
– Flexibility in routines
– Willingness to discuss concerns directly
– History of resolving conflicts constructively
– Mutual respect for boundaries
Watch for these caution signs:
– Difficulty discussing uncomfortable topics
– Rigid expectations about roles
– Unresolved family conflicts
– Resistance to compromise
– Unclear financial expectations
– Different views on privacy and personal space
Taking the Next Step
If you’re seeing potential in multi-generational living, start with these steps:
1. Have casual conversations about “what if” scenarios
2. Notice how your family handles extended visits
3. Identify which family patterns might need adjustment
4. Consider an extended trial period if possible
5. Consult with real estate professionals who understand multi-generational needs
6. Research local zoning laws and housing options
“The best part,” James reflects, “is that we’re not just sharing a house – we’re sharing meals, we’re sharing ordinary quiet moments, we’re really sharing our lives. Of course, we have our challenges, but I wouldn’t trade this for living on my own. No way. This is where I belong.”
*This is the first in our three-part series on multi-generational living. Watch for our next post exploring specific housing solutions, from ADUs to home modifications, followed by our final piece on family communication strategies for successful multi-generational living.*
Ready to explore whether multi-generational living could work for your family? Let’s talk about finding the right space for your next chapter.
Thanks for reading : )
Peter Lindberg
Lead Broker – Silver Compass Property Group
503-806-4277
