Who Typically Resides in the Home?

Who lives in the average home today? The answer is changing—and fast. Understanding these shifts is essential whether you’re buying, selling, or simply keeping a pulse on the real estate market. Let’s break down the data and explore what it means for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Let’s talk about who typically resides in the home as we take a deeper look at today’s homebuyers.

Fewer Families with Young Children at Home

One of the most striking trends in recent years is that most homebuyers don’t have young children living with them. In fact, 73% of recent buyers did not have a child under the age of 18 at home—the highest share ever recorded. This shift has big implications for the real estate market.

For sellers, this means staging strategies might need to change. While a playroom or child-friendly backyard was once a major selling point, today’s buyers may be more interested in home offices, hobby rooms, or low-maintenance outdoor spaces. For homebuilders, it could mean a greater emphasis on flexible living areas rather than kid-focused amenities.

Multi-Generational Living on the Rise

Another growing trend? Multi-generational households. Seventeen percent of homebuyers purchased a multi-generational home—the highest share in recorded history. But why are more people choosing to live under one roof?

The top reasons include:

Cost savings (36%) – With rising home prices and interest rates, pooling resources can make homeownership more affordable.
Caring for aging parents (25%) – Many buyers are moving elderly parents in to provide care rather than relying on assisted living facilities.
Adult children returning home (21%) – Whether due to job instability, student loan debt, or other financial challenges, young adults are moving back in with their parents.
Adult children who never moved out (20%) – Some families are finding it practical to keep grown children at home longer, helping them save for their own place or navigate a tough rental market.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

If you’re buying a home, consider your long-term needs. A home that works for you today should also fit your needs in five or ten years. If multi-generational living is a possibility, prioritize homes with in-law suites, dual living spaces, or extra bedrooms that could easily be converted.

If you’re selling a home, think about how to market it. A property with a separate entrance, a finished basement, or even a second primary suite could be a huge draw for multi-generational buyers. On the flip side, homes with open floor plans and flexible spaces may appeal to buyers who don’t have young children and are seeking a more customized lifestyle.

The Future of Who Lives in the Home

The way we live is evolving. More buyers than ever are prioritizing flexibility—whether that means space for aging parents, a home office, or room for adult children. If you’re navigating the real estate market, understanding these trends can help you make smarter, more strategic decisions.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, these shifts offer new opportunities. The key? Thinking beyond traditional household structures and embracing the changing dynamics of modern homeownership and understanding who typically resides in the home.