Cost-of-Living Crisis Drives 37% of Residents in the South West into Multigenerational Homes

As the number of adult children living at home continues to rise in the UK, Legal & General, set out to uncover the attitudes and reasons driving the increase in multigenerational living across the country.

By surveying over 2,000 UK adults, Legal & General has explored and gained valuable insights into life under one roof for residents in the South West, key findings include:

• 56% of people in the South West cite contributing to household bills as a significant benefit of multigenerational living.

• 57% of South West residents find lack of privacy the most challenging aspect of multigenerational living.

• Around 67% of South West locals expect a rise in multigenerational households within the next 50 years.

• The cost-of-living crisis pushes 37% of South West residents into multigenerational homes

In the UK, 53% of 18–24 year-olds live in multigenerational housing, the highest percentage of all age groups surveyed. The second highest age group in multigenerational households were 25–34 year-olds (44%). This trend is driven by soaring rents and increased living costs, making it difficult for young adults to afford to live independently.

Overall, 42% of respondents see multi-generational living as positive, compared to 15% who view it negatively. 48% of 25–34-year-olds have a favourable view of living with multiple generations, perhaps seeing it as a way to save money whilst being close to their family.

Nearly half (46%) of women see the closer family bonds as the main advantage of multi-generational living, while 55% of older respondents (65–76 years old) value assistance with elderly care.

Paula Llewellyn, Chief Customer and Strategy Officer at Legal and General comments: 

“As the UK faces rising living costs and evolving lifestyle habits, our study reveals how financial pressures, cultural expectations, and family bonds shape multi-generational living. Britons value the benefits of shared households, reflecting a broader shift towards intergenerational support and adaptability in modern living arrangements.”