Boomerang adult children could save upwards of $27,000 a year by returning to the coop after moving out of home, with new Compare the Market research finding that older Australians and multi-generational living arrangements continue to be a major defense against rising costs.
Rental prices have accelerated at three times the rate of wages in the past five years, with prices up 43.9% nationally to September 2025, according to February Cotality research. Nationally, the median weekly rental price is now $681. But many parents are welcoming adult kids back home and offering a lifeline through cheaper board.
Compare the Market asked Australians what a reasonable weekly board amount could look like in 2026, which averaged $143.59 nationally ($7,466.68 annually). Compared to the national weekly median rental price of $681 ($35,412 annually), the difference is $537.41 a week and $27,945.32 a year.
| Location | How much should adult children have to pay their parents in board per week | Median weekly rent (state capital) | Weekly difference | Annual difference |
| National | $143.59 | $681 | $537.41 | $27,945.32 |
| NSW | $163 | $817 | $654 | $34,008 |
| QLD | $138.6 | $708 | $569.4 | $29,608.80 |
| SA | 129.47 | $635 | $505.53 | $26,287.56 |
| VIC | $122.98 | $624 | $501.02 | $26,053.04 |
| WA | $164.78 | $738 | $573.22 | $29,807.44 |
Source: *Compare the Market survey of 1,011 Australian adults, conducted February 2026 + Cotality Quarterly Rental Review data January 2026.
Compare the Market’s Economic Director David Koch said it’s the kind of financial assistance that could help many get onto the property ladder.
“When you’re looking at an annual saving of close to $28,000, that’s a massive leg up to bolster savings, gather a house deposit or line your ducks in a row for your next big purchase,” Mr Koch said.
“Getting to that regular 20% deposit amount is still going to be a bit of a stretch, even if living at home and paying board, but the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme could help people get there quicker.
“The median national home value is now $901,257, meaning you’d require a 5% deposit of $45,062.85. Assuming you were able to save around $538 a week, you’d have enough for a deposit within about 84 weeks, which is just over a year and a half of living back home. No matter where in the nation you are, you’d be looking at less than two years to save a 5% deposit for a median house price.”
| Location | Median home value | 5% deposit amount | 20% deposit amount | Weeks to get to 5% deposit (based on difference between median rent + average board) | Weeks to get to 20% deposit (based on difference between median rent + average board) |
| National | $901,257 | $45,062.85 | $180,251.4 | 84 | 335 |
| SYD | $1,280,613 | $64,030.65 | $256,122.6 | 98 | 392 |
| BRIS | $1,036,323 | $51,816.15 | $207,264.6 | 91 | 364 |
| ADE | $902,249 | $45,112.45 | $180,449.8 | 89 | 357 |
| MEL | $827,117 | $41,355.85 | $165,423.4 | 83 | 330 |
| PER | $940,635 | $47,031.75 | $188,127 | 82 | 328 |
Source: *Compare the Market survey of 1,011 Australian adults, conducted February 2026 + Cotality Home Value Index.
Around a third of Australians surveyed by Compare the Market (34%) say they’ve been forced to move back in with their parents at least once to save money on rent, with 14% admitting they’ve made multiple returns home.
“Between interest rates rising, health insurance price increases and high costs continuing to hit us from every angle, many everyday Aussies are struggling to stay afloat,” Mr Koch said. “Having a roof over your head is a necessity, but when those costs continue to blow out at astronomical rates on top of all the other price hikes we’re facing, it’s no wonder we’re seeing so many people returning home.
“Particularly for young Australians, who are juggling studying, raising families or trying to squirrel enough money away for their own house deposit, it’s getting tough out there. But the trend we’re seeing is that many parents are happy to lend a helping hand and welcome their adult kids home, even if it means charging them board at a fraction of the typical rental costs.
“While younger generations benefit, the Bank of Mum and Dad also receive their own form of financial support to cover groceries, utilities and other household costs. So it can be a win-win in some situations.
“There are even cases where people are moving back home with their own children, so we’re really starting to see this multi-generational type of support that offers financial stability amid these uncertain times.”
Mr Koch said ongoing communication was key in ensuring these types of living and financial situations continue to benefit all involved.
“Treat living back at home like a mini flat share, with a contract, budget and a finish line,” Mr Koch said. “While there can be great benefits, it doesn’t take long for these dream scenarios to turn into living nightmares, so keep the communication clear at all times.
“It’s often a good idea for all parties involved to sign an agreement or contract regarding the price and frequency of board, who will cover food and utilities, chores, parking situations and more. Set out your expectations early on so there are no nasty surprises down the road. If you treat board like a handshake deal, you’ll end up with crossed wires. Treat it like a mini-lease with a savings plan, and everyone wins.
“Another thing that can help is a regular review cycle, to discuss what’s working, what’s not and ensure everyone is happy. Little adjustments early on may prevent big blow-ups later.”
For more information, please contact:
Phillip Portman | 0437 384 471 | [email protected]
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