Discover how urban compounds, co-housing, and intentional communities offer many of the same benefits as multigenerational living, including shared expenses, support networks, and aging in place.
Urban Compounds and Multigenerational Living: What They Have in Common
When people hear the term “multigenerational living,” they often think of parents, grandparents, and adult children sharing a home.
But what if you don’t have family nearby?
What if you’re single, divorced, widowed, child-free, or simply looking for a different way to live and age in community?
Across the country, a growing number of people are exploring housing arrangements that offer many of the same benefits as multigenerational living—even when family members aren’t involved.
Often referred to as urban compounds, co-housing communities, or intentional living arrangements, these housing models are helping people create their own support networks while sharing resources, expenses, and daily life.
The Rise of the “Chosen Family”
For generations, families naturally provided support systems.
Today, many people find themselves:
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- living farther from relatives
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- remaining single longer
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- choosing not to have children
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- relocating for work
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- retiring far from where they grew up
As a result, many adults are building strong social networks that function much like extended family.
These “chosen families” often provide:
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- emotional support
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- caregiving assistance
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- companionship
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- transportation help
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- shared meals
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- practical help during life transitions
Housing is beginning to evolve to support these relationships.
What Is an Urban Compound?
An urban compound is typically a property or group of nearby properties occupied by people who intentionally choose to live in community while maintaining independent households.
This can take many forms:
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- Homes with detached casitas
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- Duplexes or triplexes occupied by friends
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- Adjacent homes purchased by close friends
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- Small clusters of homes around shared outdoor space
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- Co-housing communities designed around shared amenities
Unlike traditional multigenerational living, the residents may not be related by blood.
What they share is a commitment to mutual support and community.
Similar Benefits to Multigenerational Living
Although the residents may not be family members, many of the benefits are surprisingly similar.
Shared Expenses
One of the biggest advantages is the ability to share costs.
Depending on the arrangement, residents may share:
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- Property maintenance
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- Landscaping
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- Utilities
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- Equipment
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- Transportation
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- Common gathering spaces
Pooling resources can create financial efficiencies that may not be possible living alone.
Increased Purchasing Power
Housing affordability continues to be a challenge for many Americans.
By purchasing property together or creating intentional housing arrangements, individuals may gain access to:
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- Larger homes
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- Better locations
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- Additional amenities
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- Flexible living spaces
that might otherwise be financially out of reach.
Built-In Community
One of the most overlooked challenges of modern life is isolation.
Intentional living arrangements can provide:
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- Daily social interaction
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- Stronger relationships
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- Greater security
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- Shared activities
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- Emotional support
without sacrificing personal independence.
Aging in Place Together
Many adults are also beginning to rethink what retirement may look like.
Rather than aging alone, some are creating living arrangements with close friends that allow them to:
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- Remain independent longer
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- Share caregiving responsibilities
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- Reduce loneliness
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- Coordinate transportation and support
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- Maintain a higher quality of life
In many ways, these arrangements provide some of the same advantages traditionally associated with multigenerational households.
Challenges to Consider
Like any shared housing arrangement, urban compounds require planning and communication.
Important considerations may include:
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- Ownership structures
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- Cost-sharing agreements
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- Estate planning
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- Privacy expectations
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- Exit strategies
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- Maintenance responsibilities
Clear agreements and professional legal guidance can help establish expectations and protect everyone involved.
Arizona’s Unique Opportunity
Arizona offers several characteristics that make these housing models particularly appealing.
Many properties feature:
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- Casitas
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- Guest houses
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- Large lots
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- Flexible floor plans
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- Detached workspaces
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- Outdoor gathering areas
These features can make it easier to create living arrangements that balance both community and privacy.
As housing needs continue to evolve, creative solutions like urban compounds may become increasingly common.
The Future of Community Living
Whether created by family members or close friends, many people are seeking the same thing: connection, support, flexibility, and financial sustainability.
Multigenerational living and urban compounds may look different on the surface, but they share a common goal—creating housing arrangements that help people live well together while maintaining independence.
As society continues to rethink traditional housing models, these innovative approaches may offer valuable solutions for individuals and families alike.
Final Thoughts
The future of housing may be less about who you’re related to and more about who you choose to build a life alongside.
Whether it’s a multigenerational household, a family compound, or an intentional community of friends, the desire for connection, support, and shared resources continues to shape how people think about home.
For many, the next evolution of housing isn’t simply bigger or newer—it’s more connected.
Learn more about all of these topics when you read my articles about:
Thinking About Multigenerational Living in Phoenix?
Whether you’re exploring homes with casitas, considering a renovation, or simply trying to decide if multigenerational living is the right fit for your family, I’d be happy to help you navigate your options.
I specialize in helping Phoenix-area families find practical, flexible housing solutions that support every stage of life.
Kristin Geesey
Realtor® in Arizona and Colorado living the Multigen Lifestyle for more than a decade
Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)
Serving Phoenix Metro and Colorado Front Range,
719-573-9657
info@azmultigenhomes.com
azmultigenhomes.com
If you’re starting your search—or trying to decide what type of home will work best for your family (chosen or origin) —I’d be happy to help you explore your options and identify what to look for in today’s market. I have a city by city multigenerational home gallery for you to check what your options are in Metro Phoenix. You can see that guide here: Search Multigen Properties in Phoenix Metro