Can’t Let Go? Nearly Half Still Use Their Parents’ Home as Storage

A new Talker Research survey commissioned by CubeSmart found that 92% of Americans have left belongings at their parents' home after moving out, with respondents leaving an average of nine boxes or large items behind. Nearly half (44%) say they'll eventually retrieve their belongings but don't know when, while 27% have no plans to collect them at all. Limited space in a new home, the desire to keep items for future use and sentimental value are among the top reasons adult children continue storing possessions with their parents.

The findings highlight how delayed homeownership, smaller living spaces and changing lifestyles are reshaping consumer storage needs. Self-storage operators, moving companies, home organization retailers, furniture stores and real estate professionals have opportunities to help consumers maximize space while offering practical solutions for managing life's transitions.