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What is Co-Living?

Yvonne Boulay
Coliving is an affordable and convenient way for young professionals to live.

Renting in major U.S. cities has become increasingly expensive and most young professionals struggle to afford urban living. In today's rapidly evolving housing landscape, the concept of coliving has emerged as a modern, innovative, and necessary housing solution. Coliving offers a unique way to share living spaces, creating a communal living arrangement that is flexible, affordable, and socially engaging.

In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of coliving apartments, including who tends to live in them, what's included, and the benefits.

What is Coliving?

Coliving is a housing concept that provides a communal living arrangement for renters. Residents have a private bedroom in a shared suite with a furnished, shared common area that includes a living room and kitchen. Unlike traditional apartments where each tenant or family rents or owns their own unit, coliving apartments emphasize shared amenities and a sense of community among residents. 

Key Features of CoLiving Apartments

Coliving simplifies the renting process by offering fully furnished spaces, including utilities, internet, and often even cleaning services, eliminating the need to deal with extra fees and stress. It offers an alternative form of living that allows you to share a home with other young professionals while enjoying the convenience of added amenities at no extra cost.

Who Tends to Live in Coliving Apartments?

Coliving is an inclusive housing option that attracts a wide range of individuals:

Young Professionals: Many young adults find coliving apartments appealing due to their affordability and social aspects. It's a great way to transition into independent living while building a network of like-minded peers.

Relocators: People moving to a new city often turn to coliving as a hassle-free way to settle in quickly. It eliminates the stress of traditional apartment hunting. It can be a lifeline for those who don't know anyone in a new city, instantly providing a built-in social network.

Digital Nomads: Those who work remotely and enjoy exploring different locations can benefit from the flexibility and convenience of coliving arrangements.

Young Couples: Coliving can be an ideal option for young couples looking to establish a home in a new city without the financial burden of traditional renting.

Community Seekers: Individuals who value a sense of community and social interaction in their living environment will find coliving apartments perfect for their lifestyle.

The Benefits of Coliving

Coliving offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive housing option:

Cost Savings: Coliving can be more cost-effective than traditional renting, as it includes utilities and shared amenities in the rent.

Social Opportunities: Coliving fosters a sense of community, making it easier to meet new people and make friends through social events and shared spaces. Coliving communities also often organize social events and gatherings for their residents.

Flexibility: Many coliving arrangements offer flexible lease terms, allowing tenants to rent for shorter periods, ideal for those who value mobility.

Convenience: Coliving apartments are often located in convenient urban areas with easy access to public transportation, workplaces, and entertainment options.

Reduced Isolation: Coliving can help combat feelings of loneliness or isolation, as there are always opportunities to socialize with roommates and neighbors.

Lifestyle Benefits: Coliving allows individuals to allocate less income toward housing costs and more toward their desired lifestyle.

How is Coliving different from living with roommates?

Coliving is managed by professional management companies and leasing teams, while traditional roommate situations are more informal. The responsibility for maintenance and household chores is also typically more structured in coliving arrangements, as most of those responsibilities fall on the management company. Additionally, you will not have to deal with the hassle of splitting bills and security deposits in a coliving environment.

Is Coliving Right for You?

Whether coliving is right for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Assess your priorities in terms of living space, amenities, location, and community. Due to Fair Housing Laws, buildings cannot let you choose your coliving roommates based on factors like gender, religion etc. That means spaces cannot guarantee an all female/all male suite. This is something to consider when choosing a coliving arrangement. It’s best to tour the space before you commit to any lease so you can feel confident in your choice. 

In a world where affordable housing is a growing concern and social connections are valued more than ever, coliving apartments offer a unique solution. By providing affordability, convenience, and a sense of community, coliving is changing the way people live in cities. 

Ori makes coliving better, now in two locations! Explore Ori in Venice, CA and Minneapolis, MN to experience Expandable coliving.

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