Thinking about coliving but not sure what to expect? You’re not alone. As housing costs rise and traditional rentals become harder to access, more people are turning to shared housing as a flexible and affordable alternative.
But what’s it actually like to live in a coliving space?
We went straight to the source (PadSplit members across cities like Atlanta, Houston, Denver, and beyond) to gather real feedback. These insights were compiled from support conversations, member reviews, surveys, and social media comments shared by individuals currently living in coliving homes.
What residents like most about coliving with PadSplit
Based on real feedback from PadSplit members, here are the top benefits that make coliving a smart housing option—especially for those seeking stability, flexibility, and affordability.
All-inclusive, affordable rent
Many PadSplit members say affordability is the number one reason they chose coliving. Weekly rents start around $132, and most people move in for $300 or less, which is far below the thousands typically required for deposits and the first month’s rent.
There’s no minimum credit score requirement, and rent includes furniture, electricity, water, internet, laundry, and more. That means 40 to 50% savings compared to a traditional apartment.
Members also get access to benefits like:
- Free credit-building through Esusu
- 24/7 telehealth via Teladoc
- No long-term lease obligations
Learn more about PadSplit’s pricing structure →
Payment options that support real-life budgeting
Members often say they appreciate PadSplit’s weekly or biweekly rent options and the ability to choose their own payment due date, as it aligns with their real-life pay schedules. Whether you’re a gig worker, hourly employee, or on a fixed income, this flexibility helps members budget effectively and avoid large monthly rent shocks.
Everything is bundled into one all-inclusive payment, without surprise utility bills or separate WiFi fees. That kind of consistency makes it easier for members to track their expenses and focus on goals such as saving, debt repayment, or credit repair.
No long leases or high fees
Many people who choose coliving through PadSplit are navigating transitions, working contract jobs, or simply don’t want to be locked into a year-long lease. Traditional options, such as month-to-month apartments or extended-stay motels, often come with steep premiums, limited availability, or require large upfront payments.
PadSplit offers a more affordable and flexible alternative with two stay options:
- Standard commitment: A 12-week minimum stay, followed by automatic week-to-week flexibility—no long-term lease required.
- Premium Flexibility Upgrade: An optional add-on that lets you go week-to-week from day one, perfect for people with unpredictable schedules or short-term needs.
Members say this flexibility gives them room to breathe, whether they’re in between places, saving up, or just unsure of what comes next.
Read about commitment options →
Quick move-in process
Members regularly share how quickly they were approved, often within 24 to 48 hours, which made a big difference in urgent situations. There’s no need to shop for furniture, install internet, or wait for a lease to start.
Each room is move-in ready, complete with a bed, dresser, desk, and access to fully stocked shared spaces. Members can search, apply, and book through the PadSplit app, often settling in within less than a week.
This makes PadSplit an excellent option for people facing:
- Job relocations
- Emergency housing needs
- Life transitions, like divorce or leaving a roommate situation
- Gig workers looking for budget-friendly rooms
- Teachers seeking short-term stays during the school year
- Travel nurses on temporary assignment
- Students needing flexible, furnished housing near campus
Convenient locations near jobs and transit
Many PadSplit homes are located in high-demand areas near major employers, public transportation lines, grocery stores, and other essential amenities.
You can filter listings by neighborhood, ZIP code, or proximity to public transportation, and many listings offer 3D tours, allowing you to explore the space virtually. This helps members avoid long commutes and stay close to opportunities without paying downtown prices.
Learn how to choose the right PadSplit home for your needs →
Room for connection and privacy
While coliving means sharing common areas, many PadSplit members report enjoying the social benefits that come with it. Some homes foster connections between housemates who share meals or support one another. Others operate more independently and quietly.
Every member gets a private, lockable room, and some homes offer private bathrooms, which you can filter for if that’s a priority for you. Whether you’re introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between, the platform enables you to find a home that suits your lifestyle and comfort level.
Earn rent credit through referrals
PadSplit’s Member Referral Program offers members a straightforward way to earn rent credit by referring friends, coworkers, or family members to the platform, and many members report appreciating how simple and rewarding it is.
Each member gets a personal referral link in the PadSplit app that they can share via text, email, or social media. When someone uses your link to sign up and stays in a PadSplit home for at least 14 consecutive days, you’ll receive rent credit automatically applied to your account.
Many members use these credits to cover one or more weeks of rent, and there’s no limit to how many people you can refer.
See how the referral program works →
Challenges some residents experience in shared housing
While PadSplit offers many advantages, shared living isn’t without its challenges. Here are the most common concerns we hear from members, along with how PadSplit helps address them.
Navigating shared spaces with others
Every PadSplit member has their own private, lockable room, while kitchens, dining areas, patios, backyards, and bathrooms are often shared among housemates. This setup can mean adjusting to different routines, noise levels, and cleanliness standards. Many members report that they’ve learned to be more mindful of shared spaces, especially during busy periods like mornings and weekends.
To help coordinate tasks and set expectations, PadSplit includes a built-in chore tracker within the app. Members can take responsibility for tasks and monitor accountability. As Denver member Paul put it, “You can build up an accountability trend on who’s contributing to keep the space clean.”
Adjusting to house rules
PadSplit members undergo background screenings, where available, and must agree to the shared house rules. This includes observing quiet hours, refraining from smoking inside, using shared areas respectfully, and adhering to guest guidelines.
While personality compatibility isn’t guaranteed, many household dynamics work smoothly thanks to these rules. If you feel you’d be a better fit elsewhere, PadSplit makes it easy to transfer, and your first home transfer is completely free.
Learn more about the transfer process at PadSplit →
Guest policies vary by home
Each PadSplit home has its own guest policy set by the property owner. While some homes allow daytime visitors, others may not allow guests at all.
Members like that guest policies are listed upfront, helping them set expectations before moving in. While some members find the rules restrictive, others appreciate the consistency and security that comes with clearly defined boundaries.
Review the listing description
Because PadSplit works with individual property owners, homes come in different layouts and styles. Some members describe their homes as friendly and social, while others say their housemates prefer to keep to themselves.
The PadSplit platform helps you navigate this by offering:
- Detailed listings with photos and 3D tours
- Clear amenity lists (e.g., WiFi, laundry access)
- House rules and guest policies are listed upfront
- Filters for bathrooms, the number of housemates, and the location
FAQs: Coliving pros, cons, and what to expect
Is coliving actually cheaper than regular apartments?
Yes. Coliving with PadSplit typically costs 40–50% less than traditional rentals. Weekly rates start around $132 and include all utilities, furnishings, and internet.
How fast can I move into a PadSplit?
Many members can move in within 24 to 48 hours of approval. The process is designed to be inclusive and streamlined for speed.
What are the biggest challenges of shared housing?
Common challenges include navigating shared cleanliness expectations, differing schedules, and conflicting personalities.
Can I get privacy in a coliving space?
Yes. Every PadSplit room is private and lockable, and many homes offer private bathrooms.
What happens if I don’t get along with my housemates?
You receive one complimentary home transfer that can be used at any time during your stay at PadSplit.
Is PadSplit a legitimate housing option?
Yes. PadSplit is a trusted coliving platform used by thousands of members across 30+ U.S. cities. It offers secure, affordable housing with no long-term lease required.
Is coliving right for you?
Coliving with PadSplit offers a practical and affordable housing alternative for individuals who value flexibility, security, and lower costs, without compromising on privacy or control.
Whether you’re starting over, saving up, or simply need something fast and affordable, PadSplit gives you tools to take control of your housing situation with no lease traps, no massive move-in costs, and no long waits.
Want to hear more from coliving residents? Browse real member stories to see how others are using PadSplit to move forward.
Ready to find your place? Explore available rooms on PadSplit →
