For many young adults, moving out has long been seen as a major life milestone. But in today’s economic climate, that milestone is becoming harder to reach, and increasingly, people are taking a step backwards in order to move forwards financially.
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A Growing Trend
According to the study, 49% of young adults say they are thinking about moving back in with their parents as a way to cut living costs.
For some, this move already involves more than just themselves. Around one in five (20%) have moved back in with their partner, while 10% have returned home with their own children.
And it’s becoming increasingly common. Two thirds (66%) say moving back home is now normal for young people trying to save money on rent, while 84% say they know friends or colleagues who have had to do the same.
The cost of living crisis is playing a major role.
The research found the main reasons for returning home include:
For many young adults, the so called “Hotel of Mum and Dad” is no longer a last resort. Instead, it is becoming a financial strategy.
Those who have moved back say the arrangement helps them:
While moving back home can ease financial pressure, it often creates new challenges for families.
Adult children rarely return with just a suitcase. Furniture, bikes, boxes of clothes, hobby equipment and work from home setups often come with them, quickly filling already busy homes.
This sudden influx of belongings can put pressure on both space and relationships.
Despite the financial benefits, moving back home is not always easy.
More than half (54%) say they feel conflicted about the decision, describing it as financially sensible but emotionally difficult.
Space inside the family home can quickly become a sticking point.
The study found 77% of 18 to 44 year olds worry they may have to get rid of their belongings when moving back home.
As a result, almost half (49%) admit they have argued with their parents about how to store their possessions, while 95% say they would be frustrated if they had to get rid of their things entirely.
One solution that many are turning to is self storage.
“We’re seeing more young adults using storage as part of this move back home. People don’t want to get rid of their furniture or personal belongings, but there simply isn’t the space when you return to the family house. Storage gives families breathing room during what can be a stressful transition.”
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“This trend really underlines how tough the rental market has become for younger generations. Moving back in with parents is no longer a failure or a fallback, it’s a practical response to a broken system. Storage helps people make that move without feeling like they’re giving up everything they’ve worked for.”
Perhaps most concerning is what the future looks like for younger generations.
When asked whether they think they will ever be able to afford their own place, one in three (31%) said they don’t believe they will.
Meanwhile, more than half (56%) admit they hope to inherit their parents’ home one day.
It paints a worrying picture of the housing market, where independence is increasingly delayed and family homes are becoming multi generational again.
If you are moving back in with family while saving for your next step, self storage can help keep everyone’s space organised and stress free.
Instead of getting rid of furniture, work equipment or sentimental items, you can store them safely until you are ready for your next move.
Find your nearest store and see how self storage can help make moving back home easier.
👉 Find your nearest Access Self Storage facility
👉 Get a quick quote for storage space
👉 Learn more about flexible storage options