At 23, Hannah Ahmed has a full-time job, but she has no plans to move out of her parents' home. She is not alone. According to University College London, more than two thirds of people in the UK are living with their parents at the age of 23 – around three times higher than the millennial generation at the same age a decade ago.
Hannah is part of the 68 per cent of 23-year-olds who remain in the family home. In a personal account, she says: "I have absolutely no shame about living at home – nor should I."
The Changing Ladder of Life
The traditional sequence of school, university, a job, and a first home has become increasingly out of reach for many young people. Gen Z often faces criticism, but Hannah argues that the cost of living crisis, rising bills, and student loan repayments make moving out a daunting prospect.
"Buying my first property is something which has crossed my mind many times, but when costs are high and living at home is still a viable option, why would I go elsewhere?" she asks.
Skyrocketing House Prices
Data from the UK House Price Index shows that the average house price in May 2026 stands at £271,000, up from £52,166 in July 1996. Adjusted for inflation, the 1996 figure would be £107,724.91 today – still over £100,000 less than the current average. The Office for National Statistics also reports that half of young people in England and Wales moved out by age 24 in 2021, compared to age 21 in 2011.
The stark increase in property prices has made homeownership a distant dream for many. Hannah notes that even with a full-time job, she cannot afford to rent or buy on her own when factoring in bills, food, and transport.
No Shame in Staying Home
Rather than feeling embarrassed, Hannah views living at home as a practical financial decision. The majority of her earnings are saved for a future deposit. "There is nothing wrong with living at home, and it shouldn't make anyone feel embarrassed. Times have changed and so have life paths," she says.
Every journey is different, and in the current economic climate, being at a different stage than previous generations is nothing to be ashamed of. For now, staying put is the smart choice for many young adults navigating an expensive world.
