The practice of parents charging their adult children rent is gaining traction across the US, sparking widespread debate about financial responsibility and independence. This trend, exemplified by the Archie family in Texas, highlights a shift in how families approach the transition to adulthood.
After graduating high school, Kylee Deason, the Archie's daughter, had no immediate plans for college and wished to continue living with her family. Her parents, Cody and Erika, did not object, but they set a condition: she had to contribute a "lodging fee" from her cashier's salary.
"We did not want our daughter to go to college without a clear goal. However, living here means taking on responsibilities," Erika stated. A rental agreement was drafted, requiring Kylee to pay 200 USD each month and adhere to a curfew to avoid disturbing her 14-year-old brother. Cody believed this approach taught his daughter the value of effort: "If you want to achieve something, you must work for it yourself."
However, reality proved less straightforward than theory. Kylee frequently paid her rent late, requiring monthly reminders from her father. Overwhelmed by the pressure, the young woman eventually decided to move in with her aunt and babysit in exchange for free rent.
 |
Kylee Deason (center) with her parents in Coryell County, Texas, US. Photo: *Newsweek*
When shared on social media, the Archie family's story sparked a heated debate. One faction supported teaching children financial transparency, while the other criticized calculating such precise costs with young adults.
Beyond individual cases, the trend of adult children contributing financially is becoming increasingly common. A LendingTree survey revealed that among the 85% of parents who allow their children over 18 to move back home, 73% require financial contributions in the form of rent or shared bills.
Experts weigh in on this evolving dynamic. Dr. Jeffrey Jensen Arnett, a psychologist at Clark University in Massachusetts, suggested that it is reasonable for adult children to contribute financially, given the burden of living costs on parents. However, he noted the importance of considering individual circumstances: "If children return home for medical treatment or health recovery, parents should provide support rather than collect money."
This pressure can also foster independence, as seen in the case of Madeleine Korn of San Francisco. One month after her 22nd birthday, she received notice from her father: pay 500 USD monthly or move out. Initially, Madeleine was shocked and hurt, feeling alienated by her own family. She cried because her savings plan was disrupted.
Over the next year, Madeleine learned to budget and cut unnecessary expenses. The pressure to pay her father also became a driving force for her to move out sooner than anticipated, just as she turned 23. "Though I was very angry at first, I later understood the value of independence and financial responsibility," Madeleine admitted.
According to psychologist Emily Kline, collecting rent helps prevent the "boomerang generation"—young adults who remain dependent on their parents. However, she advises families to clearly discuss the purpose of these payments to avoid unnecessary emotional rifts, ensuring the practice strengthens family bonds rather than straining them.
Ngoc Ngan (According to Today, Newsweek)
