As housing costs rise and loneliness continues to affect millions of Americans, the concept of “boommates” has emerged as an innovative and practical solution. Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are increasingly opening their homes to younger housemates, creating intergenerational living arrangements that address both housing shortages and social isolation.

In a Washington Post feature, Cynthia Holzapfel, 76, shared her decades-long experience of living with housemates. From her time in a 1970s commune to renting her basement to seven families over 20 years, Holzapfel exemplifies the benefits of shared living. “Each older couple can strike the right balance of who they want to have around. Everyone can find what works for them,” she says.

The Rise of Boommates

The term “boommates” reflects a growing trend of older adults sharing their homes with younger tenants. About 947,000 Americans over the age of 65 now live with unrelated housemates, half of whom are younger adults, according to 2022 U.S. Census estimates. Intergenerational living arrangements like these harken back to 19th-century boardinghouses, where shared spaces fostered community and diversity. Today, they serve a dual purpose: addressing housing affordability while tackling loneliness.

Donna Butts, executive director of Generations United, explains, “Several generations living under one roof helps ease the housing crunch and the loneliness epidemic.” Beyond the personal benefits, these arrangements also contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting denser living, reducing energy consumption, and cutting emissions from long commutes.

The Benefits of Intergenerational Home-Sharing

For Homeowners

1. Financial Stability: Renting out space generates additional income, helping homeowners manage rising living costs.
2. Companionship: Sharing a home reduces feelings of isolation, particularly for seniors who might otherwise live alone.
3. Practical Help: Many arrangements include help with chores or errands, such as grocery shopping or gardening.

For Renters

1. Affordable Housing: With soaring rental prices, intergenerational home-sharing offers a more affordable alternative.
2. Community Connection: Living with someone from a different generation provides mentorship, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.
3. Convenience: Many arrangements include fully furnished rooms or discounted rent in exchange for assistance.

How to Become a Boommate

Use Home-Sharing Platforms

Online services make it easier to find and vet potential housemates. Nesterly connects older homeowners with young renters, allowing for customized agreements that may include reduced rent in exchange for household help. Similarly, HomeShare Online offers free and paid matching services across the U.S.

Tap into Local Nonprofits

Organizations like Front Porch Housing specialize in creating intergenerational housing matches. These nonprofits provide resources such as background checks and standardized agreements to ensure compatibility and clarity.

Consider Home Modifications

For those seeking more privacy, converting part of your home into a duplex or building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can create separate living spaces while generating rental income. Start-ups like BuildCasa offer funding and guidance for homeowners interested in adding ADUs.

Explore University Partnerships

Some universities, like UC Berkeley, facilitate intergenerational living by pairing students with senior homeowners in exchange for reduced rent and assistance. These arrangements often foster meaningful relationships while meeting practical needs.

What Makes a Successful Boommate Match?

A successful boommate arrangement starts with clear communication. Lay out expectations in writing, including rules for shared spaces, rent payments, and responsibilities. Services like Nesterly and Front Porch provide templates for home-sharing agreements that have been refined through years of experience. Compatibility is key, but it’s less about age and more about shared values, explains Luke Barnesmoore of Front Porch. “Humans are humans. We have so much more in common than the generational difference might imply.” For example, Holzapfel describes her youngest housemates as being “like grandchildren,” a bond that transcends generational divides.

Actionable Steps to Get Started

1. Assess Your Needs: Consider whether you’re looking for financial support, companionship, or help with household tasks.
2. Research Platforms: Explore resources like Nesterly, HomeShare Online, and Generations United.
3. Prepare Your Home: Make any necessary adjustments, such as furnishing the space or creating a separate entrance for privacy.
4. Communicate Clearly: Use home-sharing agreements to establish guidelines and expectations upfront.

Boommate arrangements don’t just address housing challenges—they create vibrant, supportive communities. As Americans grapple with rising living costs and increasing social isolation, intergenerational living offers a solution that fosters connection, sustainability, and mutual support.

Have you ever considered becoming a boommate? What would you look for in a housemate? Share your thoughts and explore ideas in our Age Brilliantly Forum. Together, we can discover new ways to build stronger, more connected communities.