Once considered an old-fashioned concept, multi-generational living — where two or more generations live together under one roof — is making a strong comeback in Calgary. Rising housing costs, cultural traditions, and lifestyle changes are all fueling this trend, and it’s reshaping how homes are bought, built, and designed in our city.

Why It’s Happening in Calgary

1. Affordability Pressures
   With benchmark detached home prices hovering around $760,000, combining resources can make ownership more attainable. Families can pool income, split bills, and share the financial responsibility of a mortgage.
2. Cultural and Family Values
   Many Calgary families — particularly in immigrant communities — see living together as a way to maintain strong bonds and support systems.
3. Lifestyle Convenience
   Multi-generational homes make it easier to care for aging parents, share childcare duties, or run a family business from home.
4. Smart Use of Space
   Modern Calgary home designs increasingly include basement suites, separate entrances, and dual kitchens to accommodate multiple households.

What These Homes Look Like

Multi-generational properties in Calgary aren’t limited to large estates. They often include:

• Secondary suites (legal or illegal) with private kitchens and bathrooms.
• Triple-car garages for multiple drivers.
• Open-concept main floors for shared gatherings.
• Separate living wings or floors to maintain privacy.

Neighbourhoods like Saddle Ridge, Evanston, Mahogany, and Auburn Bay have seen a surge in homes catering to this lifestyle.

Benefits for Buyers

• Shared Costs: Split mortgage payments, utilities, and maintenance expenses.
• Built-in Support: Easier childcare and eldercare within the family.
• Investment Potential: Secondary suites can double as income properties if family needs change.

Challenges to Consider

• Privacy Concerns: Clear boundaries and separate spaces are essential.
• City Regulations: Secondary suites must meet Calgary’s zoning and building codes.
• Resale Appeal: While demand is growing, the buyer pool is more specific for multi-gen homes.

For Sellers in Calgary

If you own a property that could suit a multi-generational household:

• Highlight features like multiple kitchens, large square footage, or a legal suite in your listing.
• Use professional photography to show how spaces function for multiple families.
• Target marketing toward communities and cultures where multi-gen living is common.

The Bottom Line

Multi-generational living isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a practical and often emotionally rewarding solution to Calgary’s housing challenges. Whether you’re a buyer looking to bring family closer or a seller with the perfect home for shared living, this lifestyle shift offers opportunities worth exploring.

To learn more about what Calgary’s bustling real estate market has to offer, contact the Top Calgary Real Estate Team today!

Justin Warthe
Team Lead
403-620-8746
jw@topcalgaryrealestate.com