According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, there have been notable shifts in family dynamics and living arrangements in the early 2020s compared to the late 2010s. This change is partly attributed to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The American Community Survey, which analyzed responses from 3.5 million households, revealed a decline in the number of grandparents raising their grandchildren. This number dropped from 7.2 million in previous years to 6.8 million. Experts believe this reduction may stem from a decrease in opioid-related deaths, which often left grandparents as primary caregivers. Susan Kelley, a professor emerita of nursing, pointed out that many grandparents find themselves in this role due to tragic circumstances in their adult children’s lives, such as death or incarceration, rather than positive developments. While some grandparents thrive in this role, they often face financial and emotional challenges.
The data also highlight a decrease in young children enrolled in preschool. This decline can be traced back to hesitance among parents to send their children to school during the pandemic and widespread school closures. The Census Bureau noted that the pandemic had a profound impact on early childhood education, and future studies will determine if this trend will continue or if enrollment will return to previous levels.
Additionally, there has been a tendency for more people to stay in their homes rather than move, which may be linked to rising home values and a shortage of available properties. The report indicated that the median home value surged from $249,400 to $303,400 nationally, driven by a significant increase in home prices, particularly in affluent areas. For instance, the value in counties like Aspen, Colorado, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, experienced sharp rises.
Overall, these findings paint a picture of a changing America, where economic factors and the lingering effects of the pandemic continue to reshape family life and community dynamics. The median age of Americans has also risen to 38.7 years, and the percentage of senior citizens has increased as well, indicating an aging population that may influence future social policies.
