How the Chinese settled into homes with groups of families?

The Chinese often lived in apartments or houses with several families because of economic or personal reasons. The immigrants were often not economically settled enough to afford the real estate however, if multiple families combined their incomes they could afford to live in the area. Also, with the increasing real estate prices in the area, even the more economically successful families chose to live in smaller spaces with multiples families. Family ties was another reason why Chinese settled into homes with groups of families. Extended families often lived together because of comfort or because it was cheaper for rent, jobs, and commute.