I wrote about this before, but it’s worth mentioning again because it’s so different from the American way.
What it is: Multiple generations living together and pooling resources.
How it works:
- Parents, kids, grandparents all live in one household
- Income is often pooled or at least shared
- Expenses are divided
- Childcare is shared, no daycare costs
- Property is inherited, not bought new each generation
What we can learn: American culture is obsessed with independence—move out at 18, make it on your own. But that’s expensive and honestly kind of inefficient?
Living with family (if you have a good relationship) can help everyone save money. It’s not “failing to launch”—it’s being smart about resources.
Real talk: I’m not saying everyone should live with their parents forever. But the pressure to move out immediately even if you can’t afford it? That’s a cultural thing, not a financial necessity.