Thinking about moving in with your parents? Or maybe your adult kids never really left? Welcome to the wonderful (and sometimes wild) world of multi-generational living—a lifestyle that’s gaining popularity across the Pacific Northwest, and for good reason.
With high housing prices, a caregiving crunch, and a growing desire to stay close to the ones we love (and maybe have help with childcare or yard work), more families are sharing homes across generations. And if you ask me, it’s not just practical—it can also be kind of beautiful.
Let’s be real: living in the Puget Sound area isn’t cheap. Add in limited housing inventory, long commutes, and aging parents who don’t want to leave their garden (or their grandkids), and suddenly living under one roof starts making a lot of sense.
Top reasons PNW families are making it work:
🧓 Aging parents want to “age in place” but could use a little backup
👶 Grandparents can help with childcare (or at least cheer on the soccer games)
💸 Shared mortgages, utilities, and groceries = serious savings
💕 Closer connections and stronger support systems
🌲 PNW homes with basements, bonus rooms, and ADUs make it doable
When my parents were navigating cancer treatment, they opened up their beautiful rambler so my family could move in and help. It was one of the most generous, heartfelt things they ever did—and it ended up being one of the most meaningful seasons of our lives.
They wanted to spend as much time as possible with their grandkids, and we wanted to be there for them in every way we could. From school drop-offs to medical appointments, we all pitched in. Some days were emotional and heavy; others were filled with laughter, backyard adventures, and spontaneous dance parties in the kitchen.
Yes, there were the usual quirks of multi-gen living (like “who’s using the washer again?”), but overall, it was better than anything I could’ve imagined. It was connection, purpose, and love—all under one roof.
One of the biggest game-changers for multi-generational living in the PNW? Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—also known as in-law suites, backyard cottages, or DADUs (Detached ADUs).
And the good news? Many cities and counties are stepping up with incentives, design support, and faster permitting to help families create separate-yet-connected living spaces.
💡 Here are just a few standout programs:
Seattle’s ADUniverse – The city offers pre-approved DADU plans and a full permitting guide to make adding a backyard cottage easier and faster.
👉 aduniverse-seattlecitygis.hub.arcgis.com
King County’s Green Building & Permitting Incentives – Offers density bonuses, fast-track permits, and even fee reductions for energy-efficient ADUs.
👉 kingcounty.gov/depts/permitting
Tacoma’s Permit-Ready ADU Program – Includes a library of pre-approved ADU designs that meet local code—cutting down on costs and red tape.
👉 cityoftacoma.org/adu
Kitsap County’s ADU Guidance – Helps homeowners understand zoning, permitting, and potential layouts for both attached and detached ADUs.
👉 kitsapgov.com
If you’re in another part of the PNW—Bellevue, Renton, Everett, Issaquah—there’s likely a local program designed to help. And if the red tape feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.
From zoning questions to builder referrals, I’m always happy to help you figure out what’s possible on your property. There are more resources and workarounds than you might think—and your future guest house/parent suite/teen retreat might be closer than you realize.
👉 Send me a message or give me a call and I’ll share everything I know (plus some things I wish I knew sooner).
Multi-generational living isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle rooted in connection, community, and care. Whether you’re just exploring the idea or actively hunting for a house with flexible space, I’d love to help.
Reach out any time, and let’s find you a home that fits everyone—furry family members included.
📞 Contact us here 🔍 to start browsing homes with ADU potential right now
Hey there! I’m Maureen, a community blogger and Real Estate Broker at American Classic Homes Real Estate in the Pacific Northwest. Here to help you find your perfect home and share tips on living your best life in the PNW. Let’s come home together to the Pacific Northwest!
