Which States Have the Most Young Adults Living with Their Parents?
Introduction
About a third of adults ages 18 to 34 live with their parents according to census data. High housing prices and hefty student loan debt may be keeping young people from moving out on their own even in a strong job market. Housing costs could help explain some of the state-by-state differences in the percentage of adults living at home, but not all. For example, New Jersey, which leads the states in the share of young adults living at home, is among the most expensive states in the country. However, relatively few young adults live with their parents in the District of Columbia, where housing is just as expensive as in New Jersey.
State-by-State Breakdown
Here is how many 18- to 34-year-olds live with their parents in each state based on 2017 American Community Survey data from the Census.
Top States with Young Adults Living at Home
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New Jersey
- Percentage: 46.4%
- Number of Young Adults: 863,799
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Connecticut
- Percentage: 41.1%
- Number of Young Adults: 297,131
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New York
- Percentage: 39.9%
- Number of Young Adults: 1.8 million
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Florida
- Percentage: 38.4%
- Number of Young Adults: 1.6 million
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Maryland
- Percentage: 38.4%
- Number of Young Adults: 498,402
Image Description: Infographic showing the top states with the highest percentage of young adults living with their parents.
Additional States
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California
- Percentage: 38.3%
- Number of Young Adults: 3.6 million
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Delaware
- Percentage: 37.2%
- Number of Young Adults: 73,707
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Rhode Island
- Percentage: 37%
- Number of Young Adults: 84,641
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Massachusetts
- Percentage: 36.3%
- Number of Young Adults: 535,641
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Mississippi
- Percentage: 36.1%
- Number of Young Adults: 231,238
Image Description: Illustration showing additional states with young adults living at home.
Factors Influencing These Trends
High Housing Costs
High housing prices in states like New Jersey and California contribute significantly to the number of young adults living with their parents. Despite a strong job market, many young people cannot afford to move out on their own.
Student Loan Debt
Student loan debt is another major factor. Young adults with significant student loan debt are more likely to live with their parents to save money.
Cultural and Familial Factors
Cultural and familial expectations also play a role. In some cultures, it is more common for young adults to live with their parents until they are married or financially stable.
Image Description: Infographic showing factors influencing the trend of young adults living with their parents.
Conclusion
While high housing prices and student loan debt are significant factors keeping young adults at home, the trend varies widely by state. Understanding these trends can help policymakers and communities address the underlying issues and provide support for young adults striving for independence.