A housing change in this state could make multigenerational living easier
- Replies 0
Finding affordable housing in New York City has never been simple, and for older adults, the search can feel nearly impossible.
Studio and one-bedroom apartments don’t always fit the reality of multigenerational living, where seniors often share space with adult children, grandchildren, or caregivers.
But now, the city is making changes to its Senior Affordable Rental Apartments (SARA) program that could ease the squeeze.
The updates will introduce larger apartments into new developments, providing seniors and their families with more options.
For many New Yorkers, this could mean not only affordability, but also a chance to live more comfortably together.
The SARA program has long provided low-income seniors with access to affordable studios and one-bedroom units.
While helpful, these smaller apartments aren’t always practical when seniors want or need to live with family or a live-in aide.
Recognizing this, Mayor Eric Adams and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) have introduced new requirements.
Going forward, at least 20% of units in SARA projects built in neighborhoods with limited affordable housing must be two-bedroom apartments.
In other neighborhoods, developers are strongly encouraged to follow the same model.
City data shows that one in three older New Yorkers currently lives with an adult child—and in most cases, this arrangement is intentional.
Families often choose multigenerational living for emotional support, financial stability, and caregiving.
Mayor Adams noted, “For too long, our city’s housing policies have made it harder for older adults to live with aides, children, or other family members. With these new rules, we’ll build more senior housing with extra bedrooms and help more families find an affordable place to live together.”
For some, the idea of sharing space may sound challenging, but research shows there are real benefits:
If you or a loved one has struggled to find affordable housing that allows for more space, this program expansion could be a meaningful change.
By adding two-bedroom units, the city is making room for seniors to live more comfortably with caregivers, adult children, or extended family.
Beyond square footage, HPD is also encouraging developers to build with inclusivity and accessibility in mind.
That means housing designed for seniors that’s safer, more welcoming, and better suited to real-life needs.
If you’re interested in exploring SARA options, here’s how to get started:
These updates are part of New York City’s ongoing efforts to make housing more age-friendly and family-oriented.
Advocates are pushing for even more options—such as better accessibility and expanded supportive services—but this policy is already a big step forward.
For older adults and their families, the expanded SARA program represents not just affordable housing, but a more practical way to live and thrive together.
Read next: 17 US cities where you can still rent for less than $1,000 a month
Have you or someone you know faced challenges finding senior housing in New York? Do you live in a multigenerational household, or are you thinking about it? Share your stories and thoughts with The GrayVine community—we’d love to hear your experiences.
Studio and one-bedroom apartments don’t always fit the reality of multigenerational living, where seniors often share space with adult children, grandchildren, or caregivers.
But now, the city is making changes to its Senior Affordable Rental Apartments (SARA) program that could ease the squeeze.
The updates will introduce larger apartments into new developments, providing seniors and their families with more options.
For many New Yorkers, this could mean not only affordability, but also a chance to live more comfortably together.
New York City is expanding affordable housing options for seniors and families. Image Source: Pexels / Ramaz Bluashvili.
A fresh approach to senior housing
The SARA program has long provided low-income seniors with access to affordable studios and one-bedroom units.
While helpful, these smaller apartments aren’t always practical when seniors want or need to live with family or a live-in aide.
Recognizing this, Mayor Eric Adams and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) have introduced new requirements.
Going forward, at least 20% of units in SARA projects built in neighborhoods with limited affordable housing must be two-bedroom apartments.
In other neighborhoods, developers are strongly encouraged to follow the same model.
Also read: Medicaid rollbacks could quietly affect your housing and food support—what to know
Why the changes matter
City data shows that one in three older New Yorkers currently lives with an adult child—and in most cases, this arrangement is intentional.
Families often choose multigenerational living for emotional support, financial stability, and caregiving.
Mayor Adams noted, “For too long, our city’s housing policies have made it harder for older adults to live with aides, children, or other family members. With these new rules, we’ll build more senior housing with extra bedrooms and help more families find an affordable place to live together.”
Also read: Fewer inspections, more risk? What a federal housing cut could mean for you
The surprising benefits of multigenerational living
For some, the idea of sharing space may sound challenging, but research shows there are real benefits:
- Emotional support: Family connections help reduce loneliness and isolation, which improves overall well-being.
- Shared expenses: Splitting costs makes city living more manageable.
- Easier caregiving: Having loved ones close by provides reassurance and practical help.
- Family traditions: Living together creates opportunities for lasting bonds between grandparents and grandchildren.
Also read: This village is offering free housing for seniors! Discover why and find out who qualifies
What this means for seniors and families
If you or a loved one has struggled to find affordable housing that allows for more space, this program expansion could be a meaningful change.
By adding two-bedroom units, the city is making room for seniors to live more comfortably with caregivers, adult children, or extended family.
Beyond square footage, HPD is also encouraging developers to build with inclusivity and accessibility in mind.
That means housing designed for seniors that’s safer, more welcoming, and better suited to real-life needs.
Also read: Is it really cheaper to buy than rent in this booming city? The surprising truth behind the numbers
How to apply for the SARA program
If you’re interested in exploring SARA options, here’s how to get started:
- Check eligibility: Income and age requirements apply. Call 311 or visit the NYC HPD website for details.
- Stay updated: New housing lotteries and projects are announced regularly.
- Plan ahead: Discuss your household’s needs early, especially if considering a multigenerational arrangement.
Also read: Are you prepared for the rent hike? How a latest cap proposal might affect your wallet
Building a more age-friendly city
These updates are part of New York City’s ongoing efforts to make housing more age-friendly and family-oriented.
Advocates are pushing for even more options—such as better accessibility and expanded supportive services—but this policy is already a big step forward.
For older adults and their families, the expanded SARA program represents not just affordable housing, but a more practical way to live and thrive together.
Read next: 17 US cities where you can still rent for less than $1,000 a month
Have you or someone you know faced challenges finding senior housing in New York? Do you live in a multigenerational household, or are you thinking about it? Share your stories and thoughts with The GrayVine community—we’d love to hear your experiences.
