Wisanow Survey Results - Empty Nest or Packed to the Rafters

Empty Nest or Packed to the Rafters Survey Results

Thanks so much to everyone who completed our survey.  The full results are below but here is a brief synopsis.

• 47% said their relationship with their child had stayed the same by living together
• 72% said their shopping habits and availability of discretionary income was affected by their child living with them
• 67% of children returned home for economic reasons
• 54% said their adult child had a job but could not afford living expenses
• 51% said they charge under $100 a month board
• 71% said there was no limit to how long they could stay

Results in Full

Do you have an adult child who has returned home to live with you?

Yes  No

67% 33%

What age are your adult children who live with you?

18 – 21 22 – 25  26 – 30 30+

37% 26% 17% 20%

How has your relationship changed by living together?

Somewhat Strained Stayed the same Somewhat Improved Greatly Improved

19% 47% 19% 15%

How long do you anticipate your adult child staying with you?

0 – 1 month 1 – 6 months  6 – 12 months More than a year

7% 34% 17% 42%

If your child stays longer than you anticipate –

This would be unacceptable This would be okay This would make me happy

21% 72%   7%

What areas of your life are affected because your adult child lives with you? (please select all that apply)

Availability of discretionary income Shopping Habits Marriage/Relationship Dining Out Travel Plans Relationship with other Children ( not living with you)

34% 38%   9%   6%   8%   5%

Do you have agreements/rules regarding the following?

Timeframe for when they need to move out Doing household chores, cooking needs Curfew Contributing to household expenses Having Guests Over Choice and loudness of music Drugs and Alcohol usage Pets and Pet care, if applicable Child care for the adult’s child if applicable Levels of courtesy and respect  Transportation/car borrowing Religious and other family practices

1% 17% 0.5% 18%   8%   9% 10%   6%   1% 18% 10%   1%

Did you return home to live with your parents?

Yes No

31% 69%

Do other generations live with you?

Yes Yes Grandchildren No

5%   8% 87%

Do you think living in an intergenerational household makes it harder or easier to achieve personal goals?

Easier Harder

18% 72%

Why did your adult child return home?

Illness or non financial crisis Economic Emotional support for you Emotional support for them

14% 67%   4% 15%

If economic please select the reason

Has a job, can’t afford living expenses Is at University Lost their job Graduated from University no job

54% 26% 17%   3%

If you charge board how much?

Nothing Under $100 per month Under $250 per month Under $500 per month Under $$750 per month

19% 32% 21% 26%   2%

Is there a limit to how long they can stay?

No 1 month 3 months 6 months 2 years 3 years

85%   6%   2%   5%   1%   1%

Do you worry about enabling your child?

No Yes

73% 27%