How to Find Roommates in a New City: 10 Tips [2024]

Moving to a new city is exhilarating, but finding the perfect roommate can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded.

This guide is your roadmap to finding someone fantastic to room with. We'll explore diverse strategies that will equip you with essential tips to avoid scams and ensure a harmonious living experience. Let’s get started!

Finding Roommates in a New City

1. Leverage Your Existing Network

Believe it or not, many people actually find roommates in new cities through existing connections. This is true because a lot of people move for school or work, and both of those places often have support networks for movers. So if you’re moving for school or work, start your search there by asking HR or looking on your school’s website for roommate resources.

If you happen to be networking in the area you’re moving to, don't underestimate the power of casual conversations: Mention your search to people you meet while in the area. You never know who might have the perfect connection!

2. Explore Online Platforms for Roommates

The internet offers a vast pool of potential roommates with platforms like,

• Spareroom
• Roomster
• Roomi
• Roommates.com
• Roomie Match
• Rainbow Roommates

Based on first-hand responses from renters as well as our research into user-generated suggestions, using these platforms is a really common & generally safe way to find roommates, especially in a new city. The top three listed here (Spareroom, Roomster, and Roomi) are the most popular. Most platforms have unique advantages, such as non-anonymous posting, matching algorithms, and transparent UI's that make it easy to find information like the cost of rent.

Each platform has its unique strengths and target audience, so explore different options to find where you feel most comfortable. Remember, your profile is your first impression. Highlight your interests, lifestyle, and what you're looking for in a roommate. Be honest and specific to attract compatible matches. Don't just passively wait for messages – actively engage, reply promptly, and initiate conversations.

3. Consider Professional Services

While convenient, professional services like real estate agents or corporate housing companies come with a higher price tag. Before diving in, weigh the pros and cons to ensure it aligns with your budget and priorities.

Research and compare different services, getting quotes and understanding their fees, service offerings, and success rates in matching compatible roommates. Be clear about your needs and expectations from the start to ensure the service provider finds the best match for you.

4. Join Facebook Groups

Facebook groups offer not only an easy way to connect with the local community, postings are not anonymous, which makes it easier for renters to trust connections made through Facebook.

Search for groups related to your new city, renting, roommates, and subletting. Actively participate in discussions, answer questions, and introduce yourself. This not only increases your visibility but also helps potential roommates get to know you. Remember to respect the group's rules and avoid spamming or overly promotional content. Be genuine, build relationships, and let your personality shine through.

5. Join a Local Subreddit

Much like Facebook, many cities have thriving subreddits where residents connect and share information, including roommate searches. Find the subreddit for your new city and explore relevant threads. Engage respectfully in discussions, following the subreddit's rules and contributing constructively.

You can also create your own post outlining your search, but be sure to format it according to the subreddit's guidelines. While online communities offer connections, be cautious of potential scams. Never share personal information without thoroughly verifying the person's identity and remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

6. Try Craigslist

Craigslist can be a treasure trove for apartment hunting, but finding a roommate requires extra caution. While it offers a wide range of options, be prepared to sift through less-than-ideal listings.

Be clear and concise in your ad, stating your preferences and dealbreakers upfront. Schedule daytime meet-ups in public places, bring a friend for safety, and trust your gut instinct. Remember, if something seems off, it probably is. Use Craigslist as a starting point, but prioritize your safety and comfort above all else.

7. Consider Co-Living Spaces

Co-living spaces are gaining popularity, offering furnished apartments, shared amenities, and a built-in community. While convenient, these spaces often come with higher rent and less privacy. Carefully research different co-living companies, understanding their rules, community vibe, and potential hidden fees. Consider if the sense of community and convenience outweigh the trade-offs in terms of privacy and cost before diving in.

8. Ask Your Landlord for Help

Your landlord might be a valuable resource. Inquire if they have any other tenants looking for roommates or know of anyone searching for a similar living situation. Landlords often have a pulse on the local rental market and potential tenant connections. Be upfront about your needs and preferences, and your landlord might be able to connect you with someone compatible.

9. Run Background Checks

While not always necessary, running a background check on potential roommates can offer peace of mind. Several online services offer tenant screening, including criminal history, eviction records, and credit checks.

Discuss the option with your potential roommate beforehand, ensuring transparency and respecting their privacy. Remember, background checks are just one piece of the puzzle. Always rely on your judgment and gut feeling when making your final decision.

10. Learn How to Identify Scams

The online world, unfortunately, harbors its share of scams. When searching for a roommate, be vigilant and aware of potential red flags. Beware of offers that seem too good to be true, especially those requiring upfront payments or personal information before meeting.

Never send money or share sensitive information without thorough verification. Trust your instincts, and if something feels suspicious, don't hesitate to walk away and report the potential scam to the platform or authorities.

Preparing a Roommate Agreement

Before diving headfirst into moving in, taking a step back to establish clear expectations and responsibilities is crucial. This is where a roommate agreement comes in – your roadmap to a harmonious living environment.

What Is a Roommate Agreement and Why Do I Need One?

A roommate agreement is genearlly a legally binding document outlining the terms of your cohabitation. It covers everything from rent and bills to cleaning schedules and guest policies.

While not mandatory, a roommate agreement serves as a safety net, preventing misunderstandings and potential conflicts down the line. Imagine facing an unexpected expense or dealing with a messy roommate without a clear agreement – the stress can be immense! Having everything documented fosters transparency, accountability, and mutual respect, setting the stage for a smooth living experience.

Identify What You’re Looking for in a Roommate

Before crafting the agreement, take some time for introspection. What kind of roommate are you looking for? Are you a social butterfly thriving on shared activities, or do you prefer a quieter living environment? Are you a stickler for cleanliness, or are you more relaxed about household chores?

Identifying your preferences and dealbreakers upfront helps you find a compatible roommate and ensures your expectations are aligned.

Identify Shared Responsibilities

Now, shift your focus to the practical aspects of living together. Discuss and divide shared responsibilities like rent, utilities, groceries, cleaning tasks, and guest policies.

Be specific! Instead of simply stating "cleaning," designate who cleans what and how often. Clear communication is key, so openly discuss your preferences and negotiate a solution that works for everyone. Remember, flexibility and compromise are essential ingredients for roommate harmony!

Need tips on sharing utilities? Check out our guide on how to split utility costs with a roommate.

Interview Potential Candidates

Conducting a thorough interview is crucial to finding the right roommate. This allows you to assess compatibility, communication styles, and living habits, setting the stage for a harmonious cohabitation experience.

Start by crafting a list of questions that delve deeper than surface-level topics. Consider your priorities and dealbreakers, and tailor your questions accordingly. Utilize resources like this comprehensive list of questions. This list covers various aspects like lifestyle, habits, expectations, and potential conflicts, offering valuable insights into your potential roommate's personality and approach to cohabitation.

While conducting an interview, remember to foster a comfortable and open environment. Choose a neutral location like a coffee shop or a public park, allowing for casual conversation and genuine interaction. This will help you and the potential roommate feel more at ease, leading to more authentic responses.

Beyond the interview, trust your intuition. Do you feel comfortable and compatible with this person? Do you foresee potential clashes or unresolved concerns? Remember, the interview is a two-way street. While assessing them, also evaluate if they seem like a good fit for your personality and lifestyle.

Looking for a New Apartment?

If you’re still looking for a new apartment, why not start with Apartment List’s convenient matching tool? We take your ideal budget, location, and amenities, and we make them flexible so you can explore different options and locations. Take our easy quiz to get started!

FAQs about Finding Roommates in a New City

Do People Use Bumble to Find Roommates?

While Bumble is primarily known as a dating app, Bumble BFF allows users to connect for platonic friendships, including finding roommates. While not the most popular method, it can be a good option for those seeking roommates with similar interests and lifestyle preferences.

How Do Most People Find Roommates?

• Leveraging existing networks: Sharing your search with friends, family, colleagues, or even alumni networks can yield unexpected connections.
• Online platforms: Websites and apps like Roomster, Roomi, Spareroom, and Craigslist offer diverse options, but require careful filtering and awareness of potential scams.
• Social media groups: Facebook and local subreddits often have groups specifically focused on finding roommates or housing, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals.
• Co-living spaces: These offer furnished apartments, shared amenities, and built-in communities, but come with higher rent and less privacy.
• Professional services: Real estate agents or corporate housing companies can offer convenience, but at a higher cost.

Is There a Social Media App for Finding Roommates?

Apps like Roomster, Roomi, and Spareroom function specifically for finding compatible shared living situations. These offer detailed profiles, matching algorithms, and communication features to facilitate the process.