Across the country, an increasing number of families are opting for multigenerational living. In fact, in 2024 – 17% of all homebuyers specifically sought homes designed to accommodate multiple generations under one roof.

Whether it's aging parents moving in, adult kids staying close after college, or families sharing costs amid rising housing prices, multigenerational living is becoming a thoughtful and practical choice right here in our city.

At The Sherri Patterson Team, we’ve noticed this trend firsthand. As Sacramento’s real estate evolves, we’re here to help you find or renovate a home that supports your family’s unique needs and values.

The Rise of Multigenerational Living in California

Multigenerational living is gaining traction across the country, and California is leading the way. In fact, five of the top ten U.S. cities for multigenerational households are located in the Golden State. Sacramento, while not in the top ten, is very much part of this statewide shift. As housing costs rise and family values remain strong, many local households are choosing to come together across generations—sharing space, support, and resources under one roof.

Mental Shifts: How to Make Caregiving Feel Less Like a Burden

Caring for a loved one can be fulfilling, but it can also feel overwhelming if boundaries and expectations aren’t clear. Here are a few mental tips to help this transition feel less like a burden and more like a blessing:

• Redefine your role. Think of caregiving as a partnership instead of a chore—it’s about creating a support system, not doing everything yourself.

• Set realistic expectations. Accept that there will be good days and bad days. Give yourself grace and focus on progress, not perfection.

• Practice self-care. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you’re also setting time aside for rest, hobbies, and personal space.

7 Tips to Set Up Your Home for Multigenerational Living

Every family is unique, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all layout for multigenerational households. Still, there are universal design and lifestyle tips that can help you create a peaceful, functional, and respectful shared space:

• Create Private Zones | Everyone needs their own space. If possible, designate separate bedrooms, bathrooms, or even a guest suite to give each generation some privacy and independence.

• Use Soundproofing Strategically | Add rugs, curtains, or even sound-insulating panels to reduce noise—especially if you have kids and older adults with different sleep or activity schedules.
  
  
• Design a Shared Living Area | Think open-concept but flexible. Use furniture to create “zones” in a shared family room, and make sure there’s enough seating for everyone to gather comfortably.
  

• Upgrade or Modify Bathrooms | Consider safety features like grab bars, walk-in showers, or non-slip mats if aging parents are moving in. Accessibility can go a long way in making your home safer for everyone.
  

• Maximize Storage | Clutter builds fast with more people. Add labeled bins, extra shelving, and smart closet systems to keep things organized and easy to access.
  

• Build a Shared Calendar System | Keep track of appointments, kids’ activities, meal plans, and more with a shared digital calendar or command center in the home. Communication is everything!
  

• Discuss House Rules Early | Before move-in day, talk about expectations around chores, bills, noise levels, and guests. Clear communication from the start helps avoid tension down the road.
  

• Consider a Home Renovation | If your budget allows, talk with a contractor about adding an in-law suite, converting a basement or garage, or making accessibility upgrades for aging family members.

Multigenerational living can deepen family bonds and lighten financial load—but it requires intentional space planning. Whether you’re renovating your current home or searching for one designed for multiple generations, The Sherri Patterson Team brings local expertise and care to the process.

We know Sacramento’s neighborhoods, schools, parks, and connectivity—and we’re ready to help you find the right fit for your growing family. Let’s create a home that suits everyone in your household!