Shared living isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But when we asked people who don’t currently live in shared housing why they’d ruled it out, their reasons weren’t as fixed as you might think. Most weren’t rejecting the idea entirely. Their concerns could be addressed.
That has big implications. It means hundreds of thousands, potentially even millions, could be open to the benefits of shared living if they felt confident they would have the right experience. The demand is there. It just needs the right kind of supply.
Here’s what people told us, and what property managers can do about it.
“I want to live with my partner”
For some, the choice is simple. They’ve settled into a different kind of living situation, and shared housing just doesn’t fit that stage of life.
However, there is growing interest in couple-friendly shared homes, especially in cities where rent is high. Larger rooms, ensuites and clear communication about household dynamics can help couples feel more included and less like outsiders.
“I would rather live on my own than with others”
Some people just prefer their own space. That doesn’t mean they’re anti-social or that shared living can’t work for them. It means independence is important.
Not every shared house has to be highly social. Offering quieter, more private homes, or being upfront about house culture, can attract people who want connection but on their own terms.
“I don’t want to share with people I don’t know”
This isn’t about snobbery. It’s about uncertainty. Moving into a house blind feels like a gamble, especially for people used to more control.
The solution is simple: bring compatibility to the front of the process. Share a bit about who lives there. Let people meet or message before moving in. It’s not just nicer, it makes the decision easier.
“I’m worried I wouldn’t get along with my housemates”
This is one of the biggest anxieties about shared living, and also the most fixable. People want to avoid tension, not avoid housemates altogether.
Set expectations early. Give tenants tools to introduce themselves, flag preferred routines, and help manage conflict if it arises. Compatibility should be a selling point, not an afterthought.
“I think I’m too old for that”
We need to debunk the idea that house shares are only for students or twenty-somethings.
In reality, tenants in their 30s and 40s are one of the fastest-growing groups choosing shared living, drawn by the quality of life it can offer. It’s less about age and more about attitude, and whether the environment suits how people want to live.
Property managers can help challenge this stereotype by creating homes that feel adult, not ad hoc. That means respectful household dynamics, clear communication and considered design. By showcasing a mix of ages and life stages in listings, shared living is normalised as a smart long-term option, not just a phase.
Breaking down barriers
What’s clear is that most barriers to shared living are not deal-breakers. They’re concerns that can be overcome with thoughtful design, clear communication and a focus on compatibility.
For property managers, that means a huge untapped market. By addressing these issues directly, shared living can attract people who might otherwise rule it out, growing demand while creating better experiences for tenants.
FAQs about shared living barriers
Is shared living only for young people?
No. Shared living is increasingly popular with tenants in their 30s and 40s who value flexibility, affordability and community.
What is the biggest barrier to shared living?
The most common concerns are around compatibility with housemates. Whether people will get along, and whether tenants can choose the right fit.
Can shared living work for couples?
Yes. Larger rooms, ensuites and couple-friendly layouts are attracting growing interest, particularly in cities with high rents.
How can property managers overcome shared living barriers?
By offering clear communication, compatibility tools, and designs that suit different lifestyles. Small changes can have a big impact on tenant confidence.
👉 Want to learn more about what tenants really want from shared living? Download the State of Shared Living 2025 report for the full survey insights.
Shared living isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But when we asked people who don’t currently live in shared housing why they’d ruled it out, their reasons weren’t as fixed as you might think. Most weren’t rejecting the idea entirely. Their concerns could be addressed.
That has big implications. It means hundreds of thousands, potentially even millions, could be open to the benefits of shared living if they felt confident they would have the right experience. The demand is there. It just needs the right kind of supply.
Here’s what people told us, and what property managers can do about it.
“I want to live with my partner”
For some, the choice is simple. They’ve settled into a different kind of living situation, and shared housing just doesn’t fit that stage of life.
However, there is growing interest in couple-friendly shared homes, especially in cities where rent is high. Larger rooms, ensuites and clear communication about household dynamics can help couples feel more included and less like outsiders.
“I would rather live on my own than with others”
Some people just prefer their own space. That doesn’t mean they’re anti-social or that shared living can’t work for them. It means independence is important.
Not every shared house has to be highly social. Offering quieter, more private homes, or being upfront about house culture, can attract people who want connection but on their own terms.
“I don’t want to share with people I don’t know”
This isn’t about snobbery. It’s about uncertainty. Moving into a house blind feels like a gamble, especially for people used to more control.
The solution is simple: bring compatibility to the front of the process. Share a bit about who lives there. Let people meet or message before moving in. It’s not just nicer, it makes the decision easier.
“I’m worried I wouldn’t get along with my housemates”
This is one of the biggest anxieties about shared living, and also the most fixable. People want to avoid tension, not avoid housemates altogether.
Set expectations early. Give tenants tools to introduce themselves, flag preferred routines, and help manage conflict if it arises. Compatibility should be a selling point, not an afterthought.
“I think I’m too old for that”
We need to debunk the idea that house shares are only for students or twenty-somethings.
In reality, tenants in their 30s and 40s are one of the fastest-growing groups choosing shared living, drawn by the quality of life it can offer. It’s less about age and more about attitude, and whether the environment suits how people want to live.
Property managers can help challenge this stereotype by creating homes that feel adult, not ad hoc. That means respectful household dynamics, clear communication and considered design. By showcasing a mix of ages and life stages in listings, shared living is normalised as a smart long-term option, not just a phase.
Breaking down barriers
What’s clear is that most barriers to shared living are not deal-breakers. They’re concerns that can be overcome with thoughtful design, clear communication and a focus on compatibility.
For property managers, that means a huge untapped market. By addressing these issues directly, shared living can attract people who might otherwise rule it out, growing demand while creating better experiences for tenants.
FAQs about shared living barriers
Is shared living only for young people?
No. Shared living is increasingly popular with tenants in their 30s and 40s who value flexibility, affordability and community.
What is the biggest barrier to shared living?
The most common concerns are around compatibility with housemates. Whether people will get along, and whether tenants can choose the right fit.
Can shared living work for couples?
Yes. Larger rooms, ensuites and couple-friendly layouts are attracting growing interest, particularly in cities with high rents.
How can property managers overcome shared living barriers?
By offering clear communication, compatibility tools, and designs that suit different lifestyles. Small changes can have a big impact on tenant confidence.
👉 Want to learn more about what tenants really want from shared living? Download the State of Shared Living 2025 report for the full survey insights.
