You’ve probably heard of the phrase “nuclear family.” In this case, the word “nuclear” doesn’t refer to atoms or radioactivity! Instead, it helps define what is considered the quintessential family unit. Two parents, two-point-five kids, and maybe a dog—that’s what the nuclear family signals. However, in the past few decades, the makeup of the average set of people living together has started to change. Wondering how? We’ll break it down for you with these stats about nuclear family households in 2019.
26-Year-Olds
If you’re a young adult, do your parents often ask about when you’ll get married? It turns out there’s a reason why: a decline in young adults living with their spouses. In 1968, 74 percent of 26-year-olds lived with spouses. In 2018, just 24 percent of 26-year-olds live with a spouse. If your loved ones ask you about your marital status this Thanksgiving, you can always tell them about these stats about nuclear family households in 2019.
Couples
Though the previous statistic may make you think that couples living together has decreased, that’s not necessarily the case. In the years from 2007 to 2018, the percentage of couples—both married and unmarried—cohabitating has risen by 14.5 percent.
Decrease in Nuclear Families
Since 1968, there’s been a decrease in nuclear family households—and by a huge number: one million units.
Nuclear Family Households
So, just how many families were a part of nuclear households in their heydays? In 1968, 42 percent of households counted as nuclear families. In 2018, that number had decreased to 22 percent.
Gaining Household Members
The nuclear family is likely to have a few additions in 2018. Roommates, cousins, grandparents and more—15 percent of households include non-nuclear members. You know what they say—the more, the merrier!
Living with Parents
For many adult children, living with their parents makes sense. Not only can they save on rent, but they can spend time with those they love. Since 2007, there’s even been a 48 percent increase in children living with their parents. So moms and dads—don’t clean out your kiddo’s room the moment he or she graduates!
Summary
A couple hundred years ago, living situations were more communal than nuclear. In other words, people lived with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and more. Soon, nuclear families became more common. Now, we’re looking at another change!
That’s nothing to be concerned about, though, as lifestyles shift over time. If these stats about nuclear family households in 2019 tell us anything, it’s that the thing that makes a house a home is living with those who matter the most to you.
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