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Coliving is a modern approach to housing where residents have their own bedrooms but share common areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.
Bookings for coliving have surged in recent years, driven by a combination of economic, social, and lifestyle factors. For many, coliving provides an affordable way to visit desirable locations and explore new places without the financial strain of a long-term lease.
Additionally, as remote work and digital nomadism becomes more widespread, coliving spaces cater to those seeking community and connection while maintaining a flexible lifestyle. This built-in support network is how coliving differs from simply having roommates.
Unlike traditional roommate arrangements, coliving is designed with community and collaboration in mind. That’s why most colivings include amenities and activities that encourage interaction, such as communal meals, workshops, and social events.
This community mindset distinguishes coliving from sharing an apartment with random roommates—where interactions tend to be less structured (and are more dependent on personal dynamics).
Creating a safe, enjoyable environment in a shared living space requires thoughtful communication and intentionality. Here are the top 10 coliving lifestyle tips to help you achieve harmony with your new housemates.
The first step in having a successful coliving experience is finding somewhere that speaks to your personal and professional needs. After all, not all colivings are created equal. Some focus more on group activities and game nights, while others are geared towards productivity and networking.
Before committing to a coliving space, do some research to understand the dynamics—and look for places that align with your interests and values. This way, you know you'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who will help you have a really rewarding stay.
Let’s face it: living in close quarters with others can be challenging, especially if you’re used to having your own space. This is why it’s important to establish your personal boundaries early on, so you can avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary confrontation with a fellow coliver.
Try to communicate your needs and preferences with the rest of the house regarding noise levels, shared spaces, and personal time. Having an open dialogue around these topics can prevent conflict and help maintain a peaceful living environment for everyone there.
Coliving spaces tend to attract people from all different backgrounds, cultures, and professions. Being around such incredible diversity is one of the most enriching aspects about coliving, as it exposes you to fresh perspectives and new ideas you might not otherwise encounter.
As a coliver, be open to learning from others and appreciating the differences each person brings to the table—whether that means trying a new cuisine or participating in a group project. This is truly the best way to enhance your experience and form deeper connections with your housemates.
Most coliving spaces offer a range of monthly activities, from group dinners and workshops to craft nights and weekend outings. These activities are an amazing way to connect with the community, learn a new skill, and build lasting relationships you can hold onto for years.
With that said, don’t shy away from participating (even if it’s a little outside your comfort level). Engaging with others can lead to meaningful experiences and friendships that extend way beyond your stay, so it’s always worth it to show up and try your best at whatever it is.
Coliving is a two-way street—meaning, it's about what you contribute as much as what you get out of it. While it’s somewhat of an unwritten rule, everyone is responsible for actively participating in the house and helping out as an equal member of the coliving community.
This could be as simple as tidying the living room, sharing your favorite remote work app, or organizing a communal dinner once a week. Small contributions like these go a long way in creating a positive atmosphere, and they often lead to stronger bonds among the group.
Shared spaces are a central aspect of coliving, and being mindful of these common areas is crucial for keeping the peace. Everybody in the house needs to do their part in keeping the common areas clean *and* in being considerate of others’ schedules and routines.
For example, don’t monopolize the kitchen during peak meal times, and be aware of noise levels if you're taking a call in a shared workspace. Treat the coliving as you would your own home, and remember that your actions have an impact on the community as a whole.
Simply put, good communication is foundational to a positive coliving experience. From addressing house rules, to sharing ideas, to getting to know your housemates, being clear and respectful in your communication helps pave the way for a tranquil coliving environment.
Still, sometimes conflicts arise for one reason or another. That’s the reality of living and working alongside different personalities and cultural norms! If this happens, approach the conflict with an open mind, listen to the other person's perspective, and seek a compromise whenever possible.
Coliving is all about adaptability. Between the coworking spaces and communal kitchens, colivers are always relying on shared resources. For that reason, you’ve got to stay flexible at all times—AKA you need to embrace the unpredictability that comes with living in a community.
Whether it’s adjusting to different routines or participating in spontaneous social events, flexibility will help you get along with others as seamlessly as possible. Not to mention, you won’t get rattled when someone new arrives or the schedule changes at the last minute.
While coliving definitely encourages social interaction, it's also important to carve out time for yourself. Pretty much everyone needs a mix of social and personal time during their day, so don't be afraid to retreat to your room for a few hours or take a solo walk to decompress.
A healthy balance of socializing and spending time with yourself will help you avoid burnout and ensure you enjoy your coliving experience to the fullest. Remember, even when you’re living in a community, you still need to look after yourself and make your mental health a priority.
Coliving provides a unique opportunity for personal growth. Whenever you find yourself living among people with diverse backgrounds—each with their own perspectives and lived experiences—you’re bound to expand your mind in ways you never expected.
Stay open to learning from your housemates and be willing to adapt to new situations. Coliving can challenge your preconceived notions and push you out of your comfort zone, which is ultimately where personal and professional growth have space to flourish.
Ruralco is more than just a place to stay—it’s a thriving community that embodies the global spirit of coliving. By welcoming colivers from all corners of the world, Ruralco offers remote workers and digital nomads a chance to experience cultural exchange, foster meaningful connections, and live in a beautiful countryside setting.
Maybe you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a collaborative work environment, or a new way to connect with like-minded individuals? If that sounds like you, Ruralco provides the perfect blend of community, comfort, and adventure. Join the growing number of colivers who have found their home away from home at Ruralco and discover the many joys of rural coliving.
Learn more about the ins and outs of the coliving lifestyle with the help of our FAQ section.
To have the best possible coliving experience, it's important to establish clear communication with your housemates, maintain cleanliness in shared areas, and respect everyone's privacy. Setting boundaries and being considerate of others' schedules can make your time not just enjoyable, but super memorable, as well.
When you’re at a coliving, creating a sense of community starts with regular group activities, open communication, and a willingness to engage with others. Hosting communal meals, organizing game nights, or simply spending time in shared spaces can help build strong, lasting relationships.
If you encounter conflicts in a coliving space, addressing the issue calmly and directly with the person involved is key. Open communication and active listening can help resolve a lot of misunderstandings—but if necessary, you can involve a neutral third party to help you arrive at a compromise.
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