New Jersey has long been known for its diverse culture, proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, and, of course, its high cost of living. But there’s another growing trend making waves across the Garden State that’s impacting how families live, work, and plan for the future. More and more New Jersey families are embracing multigenerational living—a phenomenon where three or more generations of a family share a single home. In fact, New Jersey is now ranked 6th in the nation for this trend. But what’s driving this shift, and why is it gaining momentum? Let’s take a closer look at how economic realities, cultural influences, and housing trends are shaping this lifestyle in New Jersey.
A Growing Trend: Multigenerational Living in New Jersey
According to data from a study by Deeds.com, based on U.S. Census Bureau figures, 4.46% of New Jersey households now house three or more generations. That’s approximately 157,000 households out of the state’s 3.5 million homes. But when you think about it, this isn’t all that surprising given the cost of living in the state and the evolving nature of family dynamics.
In fact, New Jersey ranks as one of the leading states for adult children living with their parents, with a significant 42.7% of adults aged 18 to 34 continuing to reside with their parents. For many, it’s simply not financially feasible to live on their own in the state’s notoriously high-cost housing market. The pandemic further accelerated this trend as many people found themselves reevaluating their living situations, opting to live with family for both emotional and economic support.
But it’s not just about money—culture plays a huge role too. New Jersey is home to a vibrant and growing immigrant population, especially from regions such as Latin America, Asia, and the Caribbean. In many of these cultures, multigenerational living has long been the norm. By merging both cultural expectations and financial realities, New Jersey has seen a perfect storm of factors leading to this explosive rise in multigenerational households.
The Financial Side of Multigenerational Living
It’s no secret that New Jersey’s housing market is notoriously expensive. With high property taxes, steep home prices, and overall living costs that consistently rank among the highest in the nation, many families find it more affordable to pool resources and live together under one roof.
While many may associate multigenerational living with financial struggle, it’s not always the case. For some families, living together offers a way to share expenses, divide household duties, and combine incomes to provide better opportunities for future generations. This is especially important for young adults who are either trying to save for their own homes or pay off student loans.
Moreover, the trend of multigenerational living offers the possibility of creating more versatile homes. Many homes on the market now come with in-law suites or separate living areas, giving families the flexibility to maintain privacy while still staying close. These types of homes are increasingly in demand, and if you happen to own one, you may be sitting on a potential goldmine, especially if you’re considering selling in the near future. If you’re interested in learning more about the real estate market, check out this explore new jersey real estate link for the latest trends and insights.
Cultural Influences: The Global Embrace of Multigenerational Homes
New Jersey’s ethnic and cultural diversity has undoubtedly influenced this trend. Many immigrant communities in the state come from countries where multigenerational living has been a longstanding tradition. For example, in many Asian, Latin American, and Caribbean cultures, it’s common for grandparents, parents, and children to live together in the same home to provide mutual support, caregiving, and shared resources.
For these families, multigenerational living isn’t just a financial necessity—it’s also a cultural choice. It fosters close family bonds, supports caregiving responsibilities, and ensures that older generations are cared for and valued. In New Jersey, which is home to vibrant communities from these regions, this model is a natural fit.
Moreover, the increase in immigrant populations isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating a sense of home and belonging. Living with extended family can provide emotional security and ease the cultural adjustment for new immigrants. This deeper connection to home life enhances the importance of living together under one roof, ensuring that multiple generations can thrive.
The Future of Multigenerational Living in New Jersey
As New Jersey continues to evolve, it’s likely that the trend of multigenerational living will only continue to rise. With high housing prices and ongoing economic pressures, families are finding creative ways to make their living situations work for them. Whether it’s combining incomes, sharing responsibilities, or redefining traditional family structures, multigenerational homes are offering families a way to stay connected while still maintaining a sense of independence.
Additionally, real estate developers are recognizing this shift and beginning to build homes that cater to multigenerational living. From separate entrances and in-law suites to more flexible floor plans, the housing market is adapting to meet the needs of today’s families. Homebuyers are increasingly seeking homes that can accommodate multiple generations living under one roof, and this demand is shaping the future of New Jersey’s housing market.
Conclusion: Why New Jersey is Leading the Multigenerational Housing Movement
From its diverse population to the skyrocketing cost of living, New Jersey’s embrace of multigenerational living is a perfect blend of cultural tradition and economic necessity. It’s a trend that has gained incredible traction in recent years, and it’s clear that this lifestyle is here to stay. Whether driven by the need for financial support, cultural values, or simply the desire to stay close to loved ones, multigenerational households are reshaping the way families live in the Garden State.
If you’re considering buying or selling in the New Jersey real estate market, understanding these trends and how they may influence housing demand is crucial. After all, with the increasing desire for homes that can accommodate multiple generations, knowing where the market is headed could give you an edge. Want to dive deeper into the local real estate scene? Check out the latest listings and insights in our Real Estate section for more information on what’s happening in New Jersey’s dynamic housing market.
As this trend continues to evolve, it’s clear that New Jersey is becoming the place where families of all shapes and sizes are finding new ways to live, thrive, and grow together under one roof.