Over the past 50 years the number of people living in multigenerational homes quadrupled. Today more than six million people live in a multigenerational home, which for our purposes is defined as a home with at least three separate generations of family members living in it.

Perhaps just as telling, as of 2022 multigenerational households had a homeownership rate of 74.2%, surpassing the rate of all other family household types. (In Virginia, a whopping 30% of residents live in a multigenerational home. That figure drops to just 9.3% in Maryland.)

While the high price of homes and borrowing costs has spurred some of this increase, it’s also tied to an aging population in need of care, younger adults remaining home longer, and the desire / need for childcare.

How Homes Are Changing

What all this adds up to is a growing demand for homes capable of accommodating the unique needs of multiple generations living under a single roof. Here are some of the trends we’re seeing:

In-law Suites – Homeowners are adding ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) over garages, in basements, or outside the home with separate entrances. Others are converting attics or garages into separate living quarters.

Dual Master Bedrooms – With mom and dad moving in (or vice versa), homeowners are converting a second bedroom into another master suite complete with its own basement. One Northern Virginia realtor told us the two most popular items he’s asked about are a second master bathroom – and a main floor master suite.

Buyers are always asking me for homes with main level master suites or with two master suites. They’re at a premium. – NoVa Realtor

Main Floor Master – This is particularly popular since older members of the family can struggle with stairs.

Zone Climate – If you’ve ever argued about the temperature in a work office, you’ll understand why a home’s temperature can be a massive source of angst and frustration. Fortunately, the cost of heat pumps is falling, enabling a growing number of home owners to incorporate two different temperature zones with their own smart controls.

Soundproofing – Noise can be particularly bothersome in congested homes, which explains why soundproofing walls and ceilings is becoming increasingly commonplace.

Accessibility Features – Grab bars, curb-free showers, improved lighting, and even stair lifts and elevators are being added to homes to accommodate older family members.

The biggest source of arguments I hear about in homes revolve around the thermostat. – NoVa Realtor

Work Zoned Kitchens – The old triangle model is being replaced (even in non-multigenerational homes) to enable multiple people to be working in the kitchen at the same time.

Outdoor Living Areas – Adding a screened-in porch or stone patio can increase the footprint for family members seeking the occasional escape / reprieve from the rest of the clan.

The bottom line: if you’ve got one or more young adults unable to find their own home or aging parents moving in, there are numerous ways to remodel one or more areas of your home to accommodate their needs (and your own!).