Keeping Family Close: Intergenerational Geographic Proximity in the United Kingdom

Sen Li , University of St Andrews
Hill Kulu, University of St Andrews
Urška Demšar, University of St Andrews

Understanding geographic proximity is vital because it significantly affects intergenerational support and contact. Existing studies have primarily examined proximity to either parents or children, with limited attention to multigenerational living arrangements and how proximity varies geographically. This research investigates intergenerational proximity by defining proximity through adults’ dual roles as both children and parents and by revealing its geographic variation at a fine spatial scale – the local authority level – for the first time. Using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study, it examines individuals’ proximity to parents, proximity to adult children, and whether adults co-reside with both parents and children. Sociodemographic, household, and spatial differences are analysed for all three measures. Younger adults often co-reside with their parents, adult children, or both. Higher-educated people tend to live farther from their parents or adult children. Individuals of South Asian origin maintain intergenerational closeness, either through co-residence or nearby residence. Intergenerational proximity also varies across local authorities. In London and South East, individuals are more frequently found living with families but tend to reside farther away when not co-residing. The likelihood of living with or near parents or adult children is high in Northern Ireland. These pronounced spatial variations highlight the need to move beyond individual and household characteristics to better understand how broader socioeconomic and cultural contexts shape intergenerational proximity.

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 Presented in Session 11. Intergenerational Proximity, Living Arrangements and Kin Ties Across Societies