The Changing American Household

Source: Nathan Yau, "Change in Common Household Types in the U.S.," FlowingData.com

"In the 1970s, the most common household type in the U.S. was a married couple with kids. But over time, as people wait longer to get married and have fewer kids (if any), it’s grown more common to live alone or with non-family."

In 1976, 37% of households were made up of married couples with children. In 2021 it is now 21% of all households.

In 1976, 21% of all households were people living alone. In 2021, it is 28%.

In 1976, 60% of the households were composed of married couples. In 2021, it is 43%.