The Growing Trend of Multi-Generational Living in Edmonton & St. Albert

Multi-generational living is becoming a popular trend for Edmonton, St. Albert, and surrounding suburb families over the past few years. With housing prices still increasing and family dynamics changing, homeowners are looking for homes that can provide sufficient space for multiple generations of families to live in one household. In this blog, we talk about the benefits of multi-generational living, why multi-generational living is becoming so popular in the suburbs, and how the trends are affecting the real estate market in Alberta.

What is Multi-Generational Living?

Multi-generational living refers to a household arrangement where there is more than one generation of a family occupying the same home. Parents, children, and all grandparents live in a single home more typically, but other members of the extended family like aunts, uncles, or cousins are part of the household as well. This is increasingly prevalent in urban and suburban communities due to many economic, social, and emotional benefits.

What we're finding in Edmonton and St. Albert is that there's a greater need for housing that provides sufficient space and flexibility for those kinds of arrangements. Whether it's a large house or a multi-suite house, families are choosing to live in accommodation that gives them the ability to share resources and look after each other while still having some degree of privacy.

Why is Multi-Generational Living Gaining Popularity?

1. Rising Cost of Housing

As home prices increase in Edmonton and St. Albert, multi-generational homes are increasingly popular as families seek alternative ways to pool resources together and reduce the cost of housing. When the average home price is increasing 2-4% annually, according to recent Edmonton real estate market statistics, it is increasingly difficult for retirees or young families to afford a home on their own. By sharing the price of the home with extended family members, families can reduce the housing cost per person and make homeownership more affordable.

2. Caring For Aging Parents

As Alberta's aging population grows, more and more families are choosing to live with elderly parents or grandparents. Not only does this give family members peace of mind, since they can provide day-to-day care for aging relatives, but it meets healthcare needs and provides companionship. Multigenerational living ensures that aging parents or grandparents receive the attention and care that they require.

In St. Albert, where family matters to most residents, multi-generational housing offers a way of keeping family members close to each other without too much compromise in the area of space and living arrangements. In-law suites or standalone living quarters are gaining popularity, offering independent living space for elderly family members.

3. Cultural Factors

It is not unusual in most societies to reside with family members. For immigrant families and tight-knit cultural families who moved here from their home countries, multi-generational living permits them to have relatives close by as they settle in a new society. In the province of Alberta, with its growing and diversified immigrant population, it is particularly relevant.

The Suburban Shift: Why Suburbs are in High Demand for Multi-Generational Living

While city life has always been popular, residential demand for Edmonton and St. Albert suburbs, especially in multi-generational homes, is on the rise, with families seeking such homes. The reasons are as under:

1. More Space for Families

The suburbs offer roomier homes and more affordable alternatives to urban life. More families are learning that they can now afford a larger home in the suburbs, offering the space they need to accommodate extended family members comfortably. In urban areas such as Edmonton, where land is limited, moving to the suburbs means that families can get greater value for their money.

For instance, St. Albert and suburbs have plenty of houses with open floor plans that are easily adaptable for multi-generational living. Some of the amenities such as finished basements, guest suites, and separate entrances make suburban homes ideal for family members who desire to live together.

2. Improved Quality of Life

Suburban life is not just about space—it’s about a more quiet, family-friendly environment that so many crave. With big backyards, parks, and convenient access to nature, suburbs such as Sherwood Park and Beaumont provide a less hectic lifestyle perfect for raising children and caring for aging relatives.

Besides, the suburbs also have good local amenities like schools, shopping malls, and recreational facilities that allow families to live and work in the same place. All these factors make the suburbs an ideal place to reside for multi-generational families that require convenience as well as comfort.

3. Commute and Accessibility

It is simple to commute to a downtown Edmonton or St. Albert job in most suburbs, especially with the advent of public transportation and highway systems. For urban workers who prefer to reside in suburbs, this blend of proximity and seclusion is a primary draw. Multi-generational suburban dwellings are even nearer medical centers, which is a top priority for families with elderly dependents.

Searching for the Ideal Multi-Generational House in Edmonton & St. Albert

If you are thinking about multi-generational living in Edmonton or St. Albert, the following are several things to consider when you are looking for the perfect house:

• Look for Homes with Separate Living Areas:  Suburban houses usually consist of multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and even in-law suites or basements with separate entrances. The houses provide every family member with his/her own privacy and yet room to spend quality time together.
  
• Think About Future Expansion:  Your family will grow, and so will your needs. Attempt to locate houses with space to grow into, such as large backyards or unfinished basements, which can be converted into additional living space.
  
• Accessibility Matters:  If you will be taking care of aging relatives, prepare the home to be accessible, including features like ramps, wide doors, and ground-floor living areas.

Conclusion

Multi-generational living is on the rise within Edmonton and St. Albert as housing costs rise, people desire closer family relationships, and people enjoy suburban living. As people look for more room and affordable housing, the suburbs offer the best hope for those wanting space for all the members of their family. If you want a home with a finished basement, an in-law suite, or just more room to accommodate multiple generations, the suburbs offer many options. If you're thinking of moving into a multi-generational home here in the Edmonton region, contact me today to discuss the best properties that fit just right for you. I can assist you in finding your ideal home for your expanding family!