IELTS Writing Task 2 – Band 8.0 Sample

It is increasingly common for adults well into their twenties or thirties to share a home with their parents. This trend is driven mainly by economic pressures, and I believe its effects are mixed but broadly positive.

The most important reason is the soaring cost of housing. In major cities, rents and property prices have risen far faster than salaries, so many young workers simply cannot afford to live independently. In addition, people now spend longer in education and often begin their careers on insecure, short-term contracts, which makes it risky to take on a long-term tenancy or a mortgage. In Ho Chi Minh City, for example, renting a small apartment can cost a recent graduate more than half of their monthly salary. Under these circumstances, moving back home is often a rational financial decision rather than a sign of immaturity.

In my view, this development is more beneficial than it may first appear. Living at home allows young adults to save a substantial deposit and avoid debt, giving them a more secure start. It can also strengthen family ties, as different generations share household costs and support one another, especially when parents grow older. Admittedly, staying in the family home for too long may delay the development of practical skills such as budgeting and cooking, and it can create friction when adult children and parents have different lifestyles. However, these problems can be avoided if young people contribute to household expenses and take on genuine responsibilities.

In conclusion, the tendency for young adults to remain with their parents stems largely from unaffordable housing and job insecurity. Provided that they contribute fairly to family life, I consider this a largely positive trend.