The Rise of ‘Boomerang Kids’: Young Adults Returning to Their Family Homes
The surge in living costs has transformed the norm for many individuals in their 20s and 30s, leading increasingly to a phenomenon known as ‘boomeranging’—the act of moving back in with parents or grandparents. This trend has been amplified by recent global events, particularly the pandemic, reshaping perceptions of adulthood and independence.
A Personal Journey
Take, for example, the story of Sheridan Block, a 30-year-old who found herself back in her hometown of Jacksonville, Florida, after volunteering as an English teacher in Marseilles, France. Upon returning in March 2020, Block intended to stay for just a few months to assist her grandparents, especially her grandfather who was recovering from health issues. Little did she know that the world would be engulfed in a pandemic that altered her plans entirely.
“It was kind of a spiral,” Block reflects. In exchange for free accommodation, she helped with household tasks, running errands, cooking, and driving her grandparents to appointments. What began as a short visit extended into nearly two years. Ultimately, this arrangement proved beneficial for Block, allowing her to pay off debts and save money for future plans.
Statistics Highlighting the Trend
| Year | Percentage of Young Adults Living with Parents (US) | Percentage Increase (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 52% | 55% (2008-2017) |
| 1940 | N/A | N/A |
Understanding the Shift
This phenomenon is not solely linked to the pandemic. According to a Pew Research Center analysis in July 2020, over half of young adults in the United States lived with one or both parents, marking the highest rate since the end of the Great Depression. In the UK, data from Loughborough University shows a significant 55% increase in 20 to 34-year-olds living at home from 2008 to 2017.
Family therapist Joanne Hipplewith explains that the soaring cost of living, particularly in urban areas, has contributed heavily to this trend. High tuition fees and stagnant wages have left many young adults seeking refuge at home, often with the dual purpose of reducing expenses while establishing their careers or pursuing further education.
Advantages and Disadvantages
While returning to the family nest may evoke feelings of regression for some—particularly regarding personal milestones such as marriage or owning a home—experts like Jenna S Abetz note that this transitional phase offers compelling advantages. It allows individuals to focus on meaningful career choices rather than settling for jobs merely to cover living expenses. Additionally, this unique scenario provides an opportunity for enhancing familial bonds, as families come together during these challenging times.
A New Outlook on Adulthood
The changing dynamics suggest a gradual shift in societal expectations surrounding adulthood. The conventional trajectory of leaving home at 18 is being reassessed, encouraging young adults to deem their living situations as thoughtful choices rather than failures. As Block suggests, perceptions of success vary, and adulthood embodies the responsibility of managing personal obligations, regardless of living arrangements.
As the costs of living continue to rise, it is likely that the boomerang generation will keep growing, redefining what it means to transition into adulthood in the years to come.
