While the traditional nuclear family (two parents and children) is often considered standard for a family household, three or more generations living together in a household is common in many locations and cultures. Multigenerational households may arise out of choice (the desire to have aging parents nearby) or out of necessity (adult children can’t independently afford their own home). A nuanced view of multigenerational households can help inform policies to support households that are multigenerational by choice while offering alternatives for those who do so out of necessity.
Three or more generations living together, by necessity or by choice