In recent years, the design and appeal of homes have shifted. Where once the standard meant young families raising kids in single-family houses, today’s buyers are increasingly looking for homes that can support multiple generations. From aging parents (“senior boom”) to adult children returning home, the demographic reality of the Sandwich Generation (those caring for both kids and aging parents) is reshaping what “family-friendly” housing looks like. If you’re designing, buying, or selling in the coastal / vacation-home market—especially places like the Grand Strand and surrounding communities—this trend is one to watch closely.

Here’s a breakdown of why multi-generational floor plans are gaining demand, how to spot and deliver them, and what it means for your market strategy.

Why the demand is rising

1. Aging population + “aging-in-place” desire

The nation’s older population is growing, and many older homeowners are staying put rather than relocating. A recent study from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston reports that households headed by someone aged 65–79 have a sharper drop in mobility than younger cohorts—and notes that multigenerational living is rising. (Federal Reserve Bank of Boston)
This means more older family members either staying in or moving back to the family home — which creates a need for flexible floor plans: first-floor bedrooms, accessible bathrooms, separate living zones, even in-law suites.

2. Affordability pressures + shared costs

High housing prices, higher interest rates, and tight supply make owning or renting separately more challenging. The pull to consolidate living under one roof, share expenses, and leverage combined incomes is strong. For example, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17 % of homes purchased in 2024 were multi‐generational, up from 11 % a few years earlier. (Bell Bank)
This trend spans younger adult children moving back home, parents moving in with children, and three-generation households.

3. The Sandwich Generation squeeze

Members of Generation X (roughly born 1965–1980) increasingly find themselves caught in the middle: caring for aging parents and supporting grown (or still-at-home) children. These households are driving multigenerational home purchases. A 2025 article shows that 21 % of Gen X buyers purchased a multigenerational home. (Boston.com)
That means floor-plans able to provide both privacy for older parents or children, and shared spaces for family gathering, are highly valued.

4. Reshaping design, renovation & resale value

Homes designed (or adapted) for multigenerational living—think separate entrances, ADUs (accessory dwelling units), dual master suites, or flexible bonus rooms—are increasingly appealing and resilient. According to an analysis published in RiskWire:

“Homes featuring layouts that easily accommodate separate living quarters … are likely to fetch higher prices.” (RiskWire, powered by Veros)
From both builder and buyer sides, smart design for multiple generations equals better marketability.

What multigenerational floor plans look like

Here are key features that make a home truly multigenerational-ready:

Dual or separate living areas

• Two master suites (one for the “main” couple, one for a parent or adult child)

• “In-law” suite with bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette or small living area

• Finished basement, detached unit, or ADU allowing independent living

Universal design / aging-in-place features

• No-step entry, wide doorways, main-floor bedroom and bath

• Grab bars, zero-threshold showers, easy access

• Safe transitions and visual sight-lines for both older adults and kids

Shared-yet-independent spaces

• Large open kitchen and dining area for togetherness

• Separate family/TV rooms so each generation has space

• Outdoor spaces (patio, porch, yard) that connect but also remain private

Flexibility for evolving needs

• Bonus room easily convertible to an apartment or rental unit

• Option for separation of households (adult child with partner, grandparent, etc) while retaining one roof

• Future-proofing: when kids move out, space becomes home-office, guest suite, rental income, or hobby wing

Why this matters in the Myrtle Beach / Grand Strand market

As you serve clients around the Grand Strand, including places like Market Common, Carolina Forest, and resort/second-home zones, keep these local angles in mind:

• Many retirees move to the Myrtle Beach area seeking a coastal lifestyle. Some bring their adult children or grandchildren later — that home should accommodate multigenerational use.

• Second-home investors may want a layout that allows family now, and rental or guest use later. The flexible floor plan becomes a long-term asset.

• Older homeowners may be “aging in place” but want to live near their adult children who are relocating to the region. A dual suite design allows all to live nearby yet independently.

• Builders and developers in the region who incorporate multigenerational-friendly floor plans (dual masters, ADU garages, etc) may tap a growing buyer segment.

How to advise buyers, sellers & remodelers

For buyers

1. Define the household today and future — Will grandparents move in? Will adult children return? Plan for now and later.

2. Check for privacy and flow — Can each generation have its own space? Are there separate entries, bathrooms, or cooking areas?

3. Evaluate accessibility features now — Whether an older adult is moving in today or in five years, the home should be ready (or easy/affordable to upgrade).

4. Think rental/re-use value — If a future scenario includes converting part of the home to rental (vacation or long-term) or guest suite, layout and zoning matter.

For sellers

1. Highlight multigenerational features in your listing: “Separate in-law suite,” “dual master,” “finished bonus apartment.”

2. Emphasize how the home works today and tomorrow — e.g., “perfect for aging parents, adult children, or rental income.”

3. Show flexibility — Show how the bonus space, basement, or ADU conversion is possible.

4. Price accordingly — Buyers may pay premium for properties already configured for multigenerational use.

For remodelers/builders

1. Offer floor plans that include a second suite (bed, bath, small kitchenette) either on main level or in basement/ADU.

2. Incorporate universal design (wider halls, no stairs, accessible bathroom) even if current occupant is younger.

3. Design shared spaces that remain open and welcoming (great room, large kitchen) and private wings for each generation.

4. Consider marketing: “Multi-gen ready,” “dual-suite floor plan,” “in-law apartment included.”

Multigenerational floor plans are not a passing fad—they’re a response to real demographic and economic forces: aging parents, adult children staying home (or returning), affordability pressures, and changing lifestyle choices. In a market like Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, where many buyers and families are relocating, vacation-home investing, or planning long-term living, these floor plans hit multiple needs. If you’re buying, selling or building—keeping multigenerational flexibility in mind gives you a strategic edge.

Thinking of buying or building a home that works for your full family—kids, adults, parents? At Carolina Crafted Homes, we specialize in coastal-living designs and multigenerational floor plans tailored to the Grand Strand. Reach out today for a consultation and let’s talk about how your next home can work for everyone.

FAQs:

1. What is a multi-generational home?
   A multi-generational home is one where two or more adult generations live under one roof—such as grandparents, parents and adult children. These homes often feature separate living zones, dual master suites, or even an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to allow privacy and independence within a shared household.

2. Why are multi-generational floor plans becoming more popular in 2025?
   They are gaining popularity due to rising housing costs, aging parents needing support, adult children moving back home, and the sandwich-generation dynamic—where one household cares for both kids and parents. More buyers, especially from Gen X, are opting for homes designed to support multiple generations. (Jackson Stanley)

3. What design features should I look for if I want a multi-generational home?
   Key features include a second master suite or in-law apartment, separate entrances or living areas, accessible design for aging occupants, and flexibility to convert spaces for rental or future use. Homes designed for multi-gen living also often allow independent cooking, entertaining, and living while sharing core gathering spaces.

4. Does a multi-generational floor plan increase home value or marketability?
   Yes. Homes that accommodate multiple generations are more in demand and can attract a broader buyer pool. Studies show that properties with ADUs or separate living zones tend to sell faster and may command a premium in value. (RiskWire, powered by Veros)