In recent years, multi-generational living has surged in popularity across the United States, and Anaheim, California, is no exception. Known for its vibrant neighborhoods, proximity to Disneyland, and strong community ties, Anaheim has become a hotspot for families seeking homes that can accommodate multiple generations under one roof. From financial benefits to cultural shifts and evolving housing demands, this blog post explores why multi-generational homes are trending in Anaheim, delving into the local housing market, demographic changes, and the unique appeal of this living arrangement.
The Rise of Multi-Generational Living
Multi-generational households, defined as homes with two or more adult generations (ages 25 or older) or grandparents and grandchildren under one roof, have seen a remarkable increase nationwide. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 59.7 million Americans lived in multi-generational homes in 2021, a number that has quadrupled since the 1970s. This trend is particularly pronounced in Western states like California, where 21% of residents live in such arrangements, compared to 14-19% in other regions. Anaheim, as part of the vibrant Orange County, reflects this shift, driven by a combination of economic, cultural, and social factors.
Financial Benefits Driving the Trend
One of the primary reasons for the rise of multi-generational homes in Anaheim is financial necessity. The Anaheim housing market has experienced significant price increases, with the median home sale price reaching $900,000 in April 2025, up 0.7% from the previous year. For many families, especially first-time homebuyers and younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z, these high prices make it challenging to purchase a home independently. Multi-generational living allows families to pool resources, share mortgage payments, and reduce the financial burden of homeownership.
For example, a 2023 study from The Wharton School found that nearly half of adults aged 18-29 live with their parents, a trend driven by soaring housing costs. In Anaheim, where the cost of living is 56% higher than the national average, combining incomes from multiple generations makes homeownership more attainable. This is particularly appealing for Generation X, who make up 4% of homebuyers and are the most likely to purchase multi-generational homes, often leveraging their median income of $126,900 to afford larger properties.
Beyond homeownership, multi-generational living reduces everyday expenses. Families can share utility bills, childcare costs, and household responsibilities, improving the financial stability of all household members. A survey by Lombardo Homes revealed that 82% of respondents in multi-generational homes reported improved finances for at least one family member, with 65% citing financial reasons as the primary motivator for this arrangement.
Cultural and Demographic Influences
Anaheim’s diverse population plays a significant role in the popularity of multi-generational homes. The city is home to a large number of Asian, Hispanic, and Black residents, groups that are statistically more likely to live in multi-generational households, especially among immigrant families. According to Pew Research, Asian families have the highest rate of multi-generational living at 26-28%, followed by Hispanic and Black populations. As Anaheim’s demographic diversity grows, so does the prevalence of extended family living arrangements, which are often rooted in cultural traditions of caregiving and family closeness.
For instance, many Hispanic and Asian families in Anaheim value preserving cultural traditions and maintaining strong family bonds, which multi-generational homes facilitate. These households allow grandparents to pass down traditions, languages, and values to younger generations while benefiting from the support of their adult children. Additionally, the rise in native-born Hispanic and Asian populations in Anaheim has further fueled this trend, as even second-generation families maintain a preference for multi-generational living.
Caregiving and Social Connection
Another key driver of multi-generational homes in Anaheim is the need for caregiving, both for aging parents and young children. With an aging population and increasing life expectancy, many families are choosing to care for elderly relatives at home rather than relying on costly eldercare facilities. A Pew Research survey found that 53% of Americans considering multi-generational living cite eldercare as a top reason, while 33% highlight caregiving for family members as a motivator. In Anaheim, where 18% of residents aged 65 and older live in multi-generational homes, this arrangement allows families to provide personalized care while avoiding the high costs of assisted living.
Similarly, multi-generational homes support childcare needs. Grandparents living in the household can assist with childcare, reducing expenses and allowing parents to balance work and family life. This is particularly valuable in Anaheim, where the proximity to top-rated schools like Canyon High School and El Rancho Charter School in neighborhoods like Anaheim Hills makes it an attractive location for growing families. The ability to share responsibilities, such as childcare and household chores, was cited by 28% of respondents in a Lombardo Homes survey as a reason for choosing multi-generational living.
Moreover, multi-generational homes combat loneliness and foster stronger family connections. Marc Freedman, co-CEO of CoGenerate, notes that this living arrangement helps bridge generational divides and addresses the social isolation epidemic. In Anaheim’s close-knit communities like The Colony District, where historic homes and tree-lined streets create a strong sense of community, multi-generational living enhances family bonds and provides emotional support across generations.
Anaheim’s Housing Market and Multi-Generational Homes
The Anaheim housing market is well-suited to accommodate the growing demand for multi-generational homes. As of April 2025, there are 40 multi-family homes and duplexes for sale in Anaheim, ranging from $975,000 to $8,000,000, offering options for various budgets. These properties, which include duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and apartment complexes, are designed to house multiple families separately within a single building, making them ideal for multi-generational living. For example, a triplex with a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit can accommodate a larger family, while smaller units suit adult children or grandparents.
Anaheim’s housing inventory also includes new construction homes, with 18 new builds available as of March 2025. These homes often feature modern designs and customizable floor plans, such as dual master suites, first-floor ensuite bedrooms, or separate guest quarters, which cater to multi-generational needs. Neighborhoods like Townes at Orange offer spacious townhomes with versatile dens that can serve as home offices or additional bedrooms, perfect for accommodating extended family members.
Anaheim Hills, a luxury neighborhood in eastern Anaheim, is particularly popular for multi-generational families due to its larger lots and family-friendly amenities. Properties in this area often include features like separate entrances or accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which provide privacy while keeping family members close. The Colony District, with its charming mid-century homes, also appeals to families seeking historic architecture and proximity to downtown Anaheim and Disneyland. These neighborhoods cater to Generation X buyers, who prioritize flexible floor plans and family-friendly features to accommodate both growing children and aging parents.
However, the tight housing supply in Anaheim poses challenges. With only 434 homes for sale in April 2025, a 2.8% increase from the previous month, competition remains fierce, and homes sell quickly, with an average listing age of 26 days. This scarcity drives demand for multi-family properties, which offer investment potential through rental income while also serving as multi-generational homes. Investors and families alike are drawn to these properties for their ability to generate cash flow and accommodate extended families.
Design and Accessibility Needs
The design of multi-generational homes is evolving to meet diverse needs. Features like universal design elements—such as countertop-height microwaves, wider doorways, and first-floor bedrooms—are becoming standard to accommodate residents with mobility challenges. In Anaheim, builders like Toll Brothers offer new homes with flexible floor plans, including private bedrooms and bathrooms on the main level, ideal for elderly family members. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are also gaining popularity, providing separate living spaces that balance privacy and proximity.
However, only 3 in 10 multi-generational households in the U.S. report having separate living areas, highlighting a gap in suitable housing. In Anaheim, where just 11.73% of homes were built after 2000, many older properties may lack accessibility features, prompting families to retrofit homes or seek new constructions. Despite these challenges, the strong demand for multi-generational homes is pushing builders to incorporate universal design and flexible layouts in new developments.
Challenges of Multi-Generational Living
While multi-generational homes offer numerous benefits, they also come with challenges. Privacy is a top concern, with 62% of respondents in a Lombardo Homes survey citing a lack of personal space as a drawback. Balancing different lifestyles and establishing clear boundaries can also be difficult, particularly in smaller homes. In Anaheim, where the median home size for Generation X buyers is 2,100 square feet, space constraints may require creative solutions like ADUs or basement conversions.
Additionally, the competitive Anaheim housing market, with homes selling for 1.15% above list price on average, can make it harder for families to find suitable multi-generational properties. Buyers may face multiple offers and waived contingencies, particularly for hot homes that sell in as little as 15 days. Despite these challenges, the benefits of cost-sharing, caregiving, and family closeness often outweigh the drawbacks for Anaheim residents.
The Future of Multi-Generational Living in Anaheim
The trend of multi-generational homes in Anaheim shows no signs of slowing down. With 31% of Americans who don’t currently live in multi-generational homes considering the move, and Gen X and Millennials leading the charge, demand for these properties is expected to grow. Anaheim’s appeal as a family-friendly city with top attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and strong schools will continue to attract multi-generational households.
As the housing market evolves, builders and policymakers must address the need for accessible, flexible homes. Initiatives like expanding ADU regulations and incentivizing universal design features could make Anaheim an even more attractive destination for multi-generational families. For now, the city’s blend of affordability (relative to Orange County neighbors), cultural diversity, and community amenities positions it as a leader in this growing trend.
Conclusion
Multi-generational homes are trending in Anaheim due to a combination of financial necessity, cultural values, and the need for caregiving and connection. The city’s competitive housing market, with its diverse property types and vibrant neighborhoods, supports this lifestyle, offering options from luxury homes in Anaheim Hills to historic properties in The Colony District. While challenges like privacy and housing supply persist, the benefits of cost-sharing, family closeness, and emotional support make multi-generational living an appealing choice for Anaheim residents. As this trend continues to grow, Anaheim is poised to remain a hub for families seeking to live together under one roof, creating lasting memories across generations.
