How to Prepare for Multigenerational Living (and Do It Successfully!)

In sunny San Diego, the high cost of housing and tight-knit family values are inspiring a growing number of families to live under one roof. From college grads moving back in with their parents to grandparents helping with childcare—or simply sharing expenses to make city living more affordable—multigenerational living is becoming a smart and intentional choice.

At San Diego Castles Realty, we’ve seen this trend firsthand. Our community is adapting to support these evolving household needs, and we’re here to guide you through it—whether you’re reimagining your current space or searching for a home that can comfortably fit your entire crew.

The Rise of Multigenerational Living in San Diego

Multigenerational households are increasing across the U.S.—but in San Diego, they’ve become especially common. A KPBS report highlights that over 10% of all households in the county are multigenerational. With home prices among the highest in the country, it’s no surprise that families are choosing to join forces under one roof.

This shift isn’t just about affordability. Families are also doing it for cultural reasons, stronger emotional support, and shared caregiving responsibilities. Whether it’s helping with childcare, taking care of aging parents, or saving for the future, the benefits of multigenerational living are more relevant than ever in our county.

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:

1. 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.
   
   

2. 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.
   
   

3. 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.
   
   

4. 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.
   
   

5. 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.
   
   

6. 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!
   
   

7. 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.
   
   

8. 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 be one of the most rewarding decisions your family makes—but it takes a little planning and the right space to make it thrive. Whether you’re thinking about converting your current home or finding a new one that fits everyone’s needs, San Diego Castles Realty is here to help.

Our local agents understand the unique housing challenges San Diego families face, and we’re ready to help you find solutions that bring generations together comfortably and beautifully. Let’s find a place that truly feels like home—for everyone.