Erika and Cody Archie, a couple from Gatesville, Texas, have ignited a heated debate by charging their 19-year-old daughter, Kylee, $200 a month in rent after she decided not to attend college. The Archies, who have a significant following on TikTok, believe this approach teaches young adults about financial responsibility. They started charging Kylee rent just two weeks after her high school graduation in June 2022.
The decision has divided social media users. Some agree with the couple, sharing similar experiences and arguing that paying rent teaches essential life skills. For instance, one user mentioned paying rent until joining the Marine Corps, while another highlighted that paying rent changes the dynamics, making the daughter a tenant who can come and go as she pleases. Others suggested alternative methods, such as saving the rent money to return it as a future financial aid or a gift.
However, not everyone supports the idea. Critics argue that parents should support their children without charging them, especially when they are just starting their adult lives. Some believe that teaching kids to save money for their future is more beneficial than charging rent.
This debate reflects broader societal trends. According to Pew Research Center, about 50% of American adults aged 18 to 29 live with their parents, a significant increase from previous decades. This trend has been accelerated by economic challenges, including the impact of the pandemic and rising housing costs. A 2022 Newsweek poll revealed that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe young adults living with their parents should pay rent, even if the parents do not need the money.
As multigenerational households become more common, the question of whether to charge adult children rent remains a contentious issue, highlighting the balance between teaching financial independence and providing familial support.
