ABSTRACT
This chapter examines nonfamily living arrangements in the contexts of opportunities and constraints facing young men and women. It discusses the determinants of the rise in nonfamily households, testing whether it is due at least in part to normative changes in the family or simply to increases in economic opportunity that have allowed the realization of a constant demand for solitary or nonfamily living. Few studies of propensity to form nonfamily households have addressed the issue of housing; none have done so adequately. More affordable and/or available housing, like rising income, allows individuals to realize their desire to live alone. Young adults face several living arrangement options. They may remain in their family of origin, as "child of head", either married or part of a subfamily, or more commonly, as an unmarried person. The living arrangements decisions of young adults vary substantially, and reflect both differences in financial dimensions as well as tastes and preferences for family versus nonfamily living.
