In the age of evolving parenting styles and the ever-increasing cost of living, a Texas couple has sparked a heated debate about modern parenting by deciding to charge their 19-year-old daughter rent after she chose not to pursue higher education. Erika and Cody Archie, known for their popular TikTok account showcasing their life on a ranch, have nearly a million followers. Their decision to charge their daughter, Kylee Deason, $200 per month in rent has divided their social media followers, generating a wide range of opinions.
Kylee graduated from high school in May 2022, and within two weeks, she found herself paying rent to her parents. The Archies’ decision brought forth a myriad of reactions, leaving their followers split over how parents should teach their children financial maturity.
According to the Pew Research Center, as of July 2022, 50 percent of American adults aged 18 to 29 were living with one or both of their parents. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with 44 percent in 2010 and 38 percent in 2000. The Archies’ choice to charge rent to their daughter reflects a growing trend among parents seeking to instill financial responsibility in their adult children.
Cody Archie explained their decision, stating, “Our thought together is that since [Kylee] has graduated, I told her… I’ve been telling her, ‘June the first, our rent’s due if you continue to live here.’” Erika, though slightly more lenient, was in general agreement, saying, “I thought that was a little harsh, I mean maybe a little leeway.” Cody firmly added, “200 bucks a month is plenty cheap to live like a grub in your parents’ house.”
Erika further defended their decision, stating, “That’s cheaper than she eats in food. We think it teaches them a good lesson in paying bills.”
The Archies’ approach to teaching financial responsibility received mixed reactions from their followers. Some agreed with the couple’s decision, sharing their own experiences. One viewer wrote, “My mother did the same. I chose not to go to college but got a job. I was expected to pay rent, and I didn’t begrudge her at all. It’s what should happen.”
However, others expressed reservations about charging rent to adult children right after high school graduation, citing concerns about the abrupt transition to financial independence. This divide in opinions highlights the broader societal debate surrounding the role of parents in supporting their adult children, especially in an era of increasing financial pressures.
The Archies’ TikTok account, known for its candid portrayal of ranch life, has become a platform for discussing real-life issues, including parenting choices and financial education. Their decision to charge their daughter rent has certainly ignited conversations about modern parenting approaches, financial responsibility, and the changing dynamics of families in today’s world.
As the debate continues, it is clear that parents are grappling with the challenge of preparing their children for financial independence in a society where the path to adulthood is evolving. While some believe that charging rent can be an effective way to teach financial maturity, others argue for more flexible approaches that consider individual circumstances and the need for a supportive transition to adulthood.
In conclusion, the Archies’ decision to charge their daughter rent after high school graduation has raised important questions about modern parenting in a changing world. As parents navigate the complexities of preparing their children for financial independence, the debate over the most effective approach to teaching financial responsibility is likely to persist. Ultimately, the Archies’ story serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on the evolving dynamics of parenting and the transition to adulthood in contemporary society.