Why You Shouldn’t Feel Bad about Living at Home in Your 30s: The Honest Truth!

You’re Not Alone, Boo

First things first, it’s not just you. According to a Pew Research Center study, for the first time since the Great Depression, more adults in their twenties and thirties are living at home with their parents than striking out on their own or shacking up with a partner. Surprised? Don’t be. The economic landscape has changed, babes, and this isn’t your grandma’s world anymore.

Why Are We Nesting?

So why are so many of us nesting instead of flying the coop? Well, skyrocketing rents and real estate prices are one reason. Add in the burden of student loan debt (can I get an “ugh”?) and stagnant wages, and it’s no wonder we’re unpacking our bags at Mom and Dad’s.

Let’s keep it real: salaries haven’t been rising the way living costs have. Companies love to brag about a “3% annual raise,” but when rent jumps 10–15% every year and eggs are pushing luxury-item prices, that “raise” feels like a joke. The math isn’t mathing, sis. Living at home is less about “failing to launch” and more about adapting to a system that’s stacked against young adults.

And let’s not forget the pandemic. With job losses and uncertainty, many of us found ourselves back in our childhood bedrooms, surrounded by our old NSYNC posters (no judgement, girl). But here’s the twist — some of us never left again. And not because we had to, but because it’s smart.

By Choice, Not Just Circumstance

Here’s the part people don’t always admit: a lot of thirty-somethings are staying at home by choice. Yup, willingly. Why? Because saving money while you’re under your parents’ roof can put you light-years ahead. Instead of pouring $2,500 a month into a tiny apartment with questionable plumbing, many are stacking cash for a down payment on their own home, or using the savings to pay off debt and invest.

Think of it as playing the long game. You might be watching TikToks in the same room you used to do your algebra homework in, but fast forward five years and you could be closing on a house while your peers are still arguing with their landlord about broken AC.

Breaking Down the Stigma

But what about the stigma attached to living at home in your thirties? Here’s where it gets real. We’ve all watched Friends and sighed at Monica’s unrealistically huge NYC apartment. But let’s be honest, that’s TV, not reality. In many cultures, it’s actually the norm to live with your parents until you’re married. And even if you’re not planning to walk down the aisle anytime soon (or ever), there’s no shame in saving some coin and enjoying Mom’s home-cooked meals in the meantime.

The stigma is outdated. The truth? Living at home is becoming the majority experience, not the exception. So the next time someone tries to clown you for it, remind them: you’re making boss moves for your future.

Making the Most of It

So how do you make the most of living at home? Start by setting boundaries. Yes, you’re living under your parents’ roof, but you’re still an adult. Have an open conversation about house rules and expectations. And please, for the love of all that’s holy, contribute to the household. Pay rent if you can, help with chores, and respect the space. This isn’t a free ride, it’s a team effort.

And most importantly, use this time wisely. Save money, work on your career, or go back to school. This isn’t a step back, it’s a step towards your future.

It’s Not Forever, Darling

Remember, this isn’t forever. It’s a season of life, and like all seasons, it will pass. In the meantime, embrace the situation. You’re getting a chance to bond with your parents as an adult, save money, and prepare for your future. So let go of the stigma, hold your head high, and make the most of this unique opportunity.

At the end of the day, it’s not about where you live, but how you live. So live boldly, live wisely, and live without apology. Because whether you’re living in a penthouse, a studio apartment, or your parents’ basement, you’re still a queen. And don’t you forget it.

Hey Girl, Hey!

We’ve all heard the jokes, the side-eyes, and the not-so-subtle “When are you moving out?” from our parents. But let’s spill the tea: living at home in your thirties is becoming as common as binge-watching Bridgerton on a Saturday night. And why not? With sky-rocketing rent prices, student loans that make us want to pull our hair out, and a pandemic that’s turned our world upside down, it’s no wonder more of us are choosing to stick around the nest a little longer.

Before you start feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending episode of Everybody Loves Raymond, let’s dive into why this is becoming the new normal and how to make it work for you.

Why the Trend?

First things first, let’s get real about why this is happening. We’re all living in a post-recession era where the cost of living has soared faster than our salaries. Add in the student debt crisis, and it’s no surprise that millennials and Gen Z-ers are finding it hard to fly solo.

According to a Pew Research Center study, a whopping 52% of young adults were living with their parents in 2020. That’s the highest it’s been since the Great Depression, sis! And that number hasn’t magically dropped — if anything, it’s proof that this is the new financial strategy.

Benefits of Living at Home

It’s not all doom and gloom though. Living at home can come with some serious perks. For starters, you’re likely saving a ton of money on rent, utilities, and groceries (thanks, Mom!). This can be a great opportunity to pay down debt, save for a down payment on a house, or even start your own business.

Plus, there’s the added bonus of home-cooked meals and a built-in support system. Who wouldn’t want to come home to Mom’s lasagna after a long day?

 

Making it Work

Now, let’s talk about how to make living at home in your thirties work for you. It’s all about boundaries, babe. Make sure you’re contributing to the household in some way, whether it’s paying rent, doing chores, or cooking meals. It’s also important to have open and honest conversations with your parents about your plans and expectations. After all, you’re an adult, not a teenager sneaking in after curfew.

Next, focus on your financial goals. Use this time to get your money right. Whether it’s paying off student loans, saving for a house, or investing in your future, make a plan and stick to it. You’ll thank yourself later.

Lastly, don’t forget to live your life. Just because you’re living at home doesn’t mean you have to put your social life on hold. Invite friends over, go out, date, travel. Do you, boo!

Final Thoughts

Living at home in your thirties might not have been part of your plan, but it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It’s higher than it’s ever been, and it’s not just because people can’t move out — it’s because many are choosing not to. It’s a smart, strategic move that can set you up for financial success in the future.

So, next time someone throws shade about your living situation, just remember: you’re in good company, and you’re making moves that will pay off in the long run. Now, go ahead and pour yourself a glass of wine, you’ve earned it!