Meet the grandmother living out of a 400-ft ‘granny pod’ to save money and help with child care—it’s become an American ‘economic necessity’

Fortune

by Emma Burleigh

February 15, 2026

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Denise Martin, a 65-year-old retired financial advisor and grandmother of three, has embraced a growing trend in American living by moving into a 400-square-foot "granny pod" on her daughter’s property in Bend, Oregon. This tiny home, built for under $200,000, allows Martin to live close to her grandchildren while reducing her living costs. The concept of multigenerational living is gaining traction as an economic necessity, driven by rising housing prices and financial uncertainties. Martin’s granny pod, constructed by her son-in-law’s tiny home business, Spindrift Tiny Homes, features a 10-by-10-foot loft for sleeping and a 300-square-foot living space. The compact design includes modern amenities like a washer-dryer combo unit, gas

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/15/2026