Texas couple Erika and Cody Archie, known for sharing their ranch life on TikTok, sparked a parenting debate by charging their 19-year-old daughter, Kylee Deason, $200 monthly rent when she chose not to attend college. Kylee graduated high school in May 2022, and her parents initiated rent within two weeks, triggering discussions on instilling financial maturity in children. Cody emphasized strictness, asserting, “Our rent’s due if you continue to live here,” while Erika acknowledged a need for some leniency.

TikTok followers were divided. Some endorsed the decision, citing personal experiences and viewing it as a valuable life lesson. Others opposed, questioning where else children would go if not with parents. Viewer suggestions included a rent-return system for responsibility without excessive financial burden.

Examining broader trends, multigenerational living is rising in the US due to economic factors, including pandemic impacts. Despite increased living costs, opinions on charging adult children rent vary. A Newsweek poll revealed nearly two-thirds of 1,500 Americans believed adults in their twenties living with parents should pay rent. The Archies’ choice fuels a broader conversation on parenting, financial responsibility, and evolving family dynamics.