February 15 2024- Homesteading, a lifestyle characterized by self-sufficiency through activities like growing food and living off the grid, has gained popularity, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. TikTok reflects this trend, showcasing videos of individuals, often young moms, engaged in homesteading practices such as making jam and maintaining picturesque gardens. The lifestyle, while seemingly idyllic, is driven by a deeper skepticism towards mainstream systems and corporations that provide sustenance. According to a poll by the Homesteaders of America, over a quarter of nearly 4,000 respondents had been homesteading for three years or less. Millennials and Gen Z, comprising almost half of the respondents, are increasingly embracing this lifestyle, with many opting for rural or exurban living over city life.
