Moving Back Home: A Path Towards Stability
In the U.S., the traditional path often looks like this: live at home through high school, move out for college, and then launch into independent adulthood never looking back. But increasingly, that narrative doesn’t match reality. More adults today are choosing (or needing) to live with their parents at different points in life. And here’s the thing: it’s not a sign of failure.
First, let’s talk about finances. With skyrocketing housing and grocery costs, living on your own can feel nearly impossible. Many adults find that moving in with parents helps them save money, sometimes just to stay afloat, other times to build toward a goal like paying off debt or buying a home. In some cases, both adult children and their parents aren’t earning livable wages, and cohabiting is what allows everyone to maintain stable housing. Financial stress is one of the biggest contributors to anxiety and depression, and sometimes the smartest financial decision is the one that comes with the least shame.
There are also emotional reasons. Living with your parents — if you have a supportive relationship — can be incredibly stabilizing during hard times. Whether you're grieving a loss, navigating a breakup, facing health challenges, or recovering from job loss, being surrounded by people who care about you can be essential. Needing support doesn’t make you weak. In fact, recognizing what you need and asking for it takes real strength.
So whether you’re considering moving back in with your parents out of financial necessity, emotional support, or another reason altogether: it’s okay. It’s more than okay. It’s a reflection of adaptability and courage.
If you're weighing this decision, here’s a simple exercise to help:
Take a moment to ground yourself in the present.
Visualize your current life and how you’re working toward your goals.
Then picture each option you’re considering, including moving in with your parents.
Notice the emotions that come up, but set them aside just for now. Focus only on how each option could help or hinder your goals.
Finally, bring those emotions back in. Are they coming from fear of judgment or shame? If so, remember: your choices are valid when they come from a place of clarity and care for yourself.
And of course, talk to your therapist about it. They may have other visualization tools or insights to help you explore this more deeply. You deserve to feel empowered in whatever choice you make.