We’ve thoroughly researched the top platforms that will help students spend less on college housing. The factors we’ve considered in searching for the best platforms for shared housing for students included:
- User Experience. We checked out how easy each platform is to use, making sure students can quickly find and filter listings that fit their needs. A smooth user experience helps take the stress out of the housing hunt!
- Available Listings. More choices mean students can find something that suits their style and budget, which is important.
- Safety Features. Safety is a big deal when it comes to college housing. We looked for features like verified listings and user reviews.
Finding housing, or room and board, is a major challenge for college students. Even if you’re studying online, you still need a comfortable place to sleep and focus on your studies.
Apartments.com reports that the average rent in the United States is $1,557 per month. Multiply that into twelve months, and you’re looking at nearly $18,684 a year just for rent. The costs can quickly pile up when you add in utilities, groceries, and other living expenses.
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For many students, this means finding ways to cut costs. One of the most suggested ways is to find someone to share housing with. Shared housing for students is a great way for budget-conscious people to save on rent and utilities. Plus, living with a roommate can be a fun way to make friends and build a support system, making college life even better!
Related Articles:
- Budget-Friendly Shared Housing Solutions for Online Learners
- Guide to Finding Affordable Housing Near Your Online College
- Low-Cost Housing for Online College Students: Solutions for a Comfortable Education
- Top Cities Offering the Best Housing for Remote Students
Roomster: Features, Pricing, and User Reviews
Roomster is one of the best platforms for student housing. With over 4 million members from all over the world, Roomster makes it super easy. You can chat privately in a secure inbox, keeping your info safe and sound.
You can even show off your social side by linking your Facebook and Twitter right on your profile. Roomster can also help you snag free quotes from moving companies without strings attached.
With a free membership, you can browse tons of profiles and message anyone without spending a dime—just upgrade if you want to read their replies. Enjoy 24/7 support, loads of tips for creating a standout profile, and helpful tutorials to guide you along the way. Costs:
- Upgrade for three days for $5.95
- A 2-week upgrade costs $14.95
- Four weeks on the upgraded package is $29.95
You can bookmark your favorite profiles, sort searches by what matters to you, and even report annoying users. Here are some of the customer reviews we’ve read that made us include Roomster as one of the top platforms for online student housing options:
- “Do you want it fast and secure? Stop looking at those other sites! I’ve moved around so much in this city that I know the ropes better than half the brokers out there. I can’t stand a slow hunt—when I’m searching, I want it quick and straightforward. I’ve tried all the usual suspects like Apartment Finder, StreetEasy, and Craigslist, but none compare to Roomster. Seriously, if you’re after speed and security, this is the site to use. They really cut!” – Albert K.
- “Honestly, this site is legit! I found a great bedroom in San Diego for just $1,070 a month. I interviewed a few candidates and picked one who turned out to be a perfect fit. Roomster really saved me from having to move out of an apartment I love. Highly recommend it!” – Chase L.
Student.com: Best for Budget-Friendly Housing
Student.com is a great go-to for searching for affordable shared housing for college students. They specialize in student accommodations, offering everything from shared apartments to private studios to fit all kinds of budgets.
They’re applauded for their easy filtering system. Search by location, price, amenities, and even how close it is to your uni, making it super simple to find a place that works for you.
They also team up with verified landlords, so you know the listings are legit. Plus, their support team is there to help with booking and lease details, which is a bonus for international students.
Students rave about the user-friendly site and the range of options available. With clear pricing and no hidden fees, Student.com is a solid choice for anyone looking for easy-to-navigate student roommate matching apps and those who want to stretch their housing budget.
Roomi: User-Friendly Apps for Finding Roommates
As one of the top student housing websites, Roomi helps you connect with verified renters in your area who are looking for roommates and offering rooms you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re searching for a cozy spot to call home or just need someone to share expenses with, this website has got you covered.
With Roomi, you can explore a variety of listings tailored to your needs, making it easy to find a living situation that fits your lifestyle. Plus, the platform takes the stress out of the search by ensuring you connect with trustworthy individuals. It includes secure messaging and a verification process for added safety.
Zillow Rentals: Comprehensive Listings with Diverse Options
Zillow Rentals is not just for buying or selling homes but also for finding rental properties. As a student, you can also use this platform to find shared housing for students. You can filter your searches by location, number of bedrooms, price, and pet policies.
It offers an extensive database of listings that includes apartments, single-family homes, and townhouses. This gives students a variety of options to consider, whether they prefer a shared living space or a more private environment. Users can view high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and even neighborhood insights to help them make informed decisions.
Zillow also has a great mobile app that lets you browse listings anytime, anywhere. Plus, their instant alerts ensure you’re one of the first to know when a new property pops up—crucial in a competitive rental scene for budget-friendly housing for online students.
SpareRoom features a “Roommate Finder” that matches you based on your lifestyle and interests, making it easier to find a good fit. You can create profiles, list your rooms, and check out potential roommates’ profiles too.
Another great option is the “flatshare,” where students can post their listings for shared housing, making it a two-way street for finding the perfect living situation. Whether you want a quiet study space or a lively social vibe, SpareRoom has the tools to help you find your ideal shared home.
Nestpick: Provides detailed insights
Nestpick helps people find furnished apartments and rooms for rent, available month-to-month. This online platform operates worldwide and is especially useful for expats and students moving to new cities. The website gathers listings from various providers, making it easy to explore options.
Nestpick also provides helpful information about each city, including costs of living, different neighborhoods, and tips for finding shared housing for college and student life. This feature helps you understand your potential new surroundings better. With a straightforward booking process and support for international transactions, Nestpick ensures that you have a smooth experience from start to finish.
Roommates.com: Matching Roommates
Roommates.com is ranked as one of the top apps for student housing, and it’s been that way since 2001. With its latest update, finding your ideal roommate is faster and easier than ever. Millions of people have already connected and created great memories with their new best friends while saving some cash.
Its mission is to help you live your best life, including finding a roommate who fits you perfectly. Its Perfect Match™ feature pairs you with someone who meets your needs (and helps you meet theirs, too)! But if you’re open to exploring other options, you can browse through profiles of people who might not be “perfect matches”—because sometimes, opposites attract!
Bungalow is a modern platform focused on community living, offering fully furnished homes with individual rooms for rent. It’s a great option for students who want to live with others without traditional leases. With flexible leases and transparent pricing, Bungalow provides a hassle-free, perfect living experience for students.
What makes Bungalow unique is its emphasis on building community. Events and activities encourage connections among residents, and each home is professionally managed for easy maintenance and support.
Comparing Features: What to Look for in Student Housing Platforms
With so many platforms available today, choosing which to trust can be challenging. Here’s a quick guide on how to compare features and find the right student housing platform for your needs:
Pricing and Affordability
Look for platforms that are upfront about all costs, like rent and utilities. Use tools that make it easy to compare listings side by side. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts and flexible payment options, whether you prefer monthly or semester plans. And definitely read user reviews to see if people feel like they’re getting good value for their money!
User Experience and Interface
Go for platforms that are easy to use, enabling you to filter by price and location. Check out listings with high-quality photos and virtual tours to help you decide. Make sure the site works well on your phone and has good customer support if you need help. It’s also great to find platforms with community features like forums to improve your search!
Safety and Security Features
Opt for platforms that verify the identities of landlords and tenants to avoid scams. User ratings can provide insights into neighborhood safety. Make sure the platform offers secure payment methods and clear emergency contact information. Look for additional safety resources, such as tips for renters.
Here are simple tips for finding affordable student housing, considering important factors like amenities, location, safety, and community atmosphere.
- Location: Is it close to campus, libraries, and shops? A good spot saves you time and makes it easier to join in on-campus fun.
- Safety: Check for secure entry, CCTV, and good lighting. Research local crime rates and check for 24/7 support.
- Budget: Know your budget! Factor in rent, utilities, and deposits. Try to make a good balance between price and quality.
- Amenities: What’s included? Study areas, gyms, and laundry can make life easier and more enjoyable.
- Community: Find a place with a friendly vibe. Look for events or activities to help you meet new people.
Next, here are factors to consider when choosing a roommate:
- Relationship: Figure out what you want from your roommate—friendship or just sharing bills. Be clear about your expectations!
- Lifestyle: Discuss sleep habits, work schedules, and hobbies. Compatibility matters, but you don’t need to be the same.
- Cleanliness: Define “clean” together. Everyone has different standards!
- Responsibility: Ask about finances upfront. Watch for any signs of discomfort in discussing money.
- Guests: Talk about guest policies—how often friends can visit and how long partners can stay over.
- Conflict Resolution: Ask about past conflicts to see how they handle issues. This gives insight into their approach.
- References: Check with past roommates or landlords for compatibility. Hanging out with each other’s friends can help, too.
Finding the right accommodation is essential for your success as an online college student. Good student housing and the perfect roommate can help you academically and socially thrive. Take the time to compare features and options based on what matters most to you: budget, safety, or community vibe.