By Angela Butterfield

Roommates aren’t just for twenty-somethings and college dorms anymore. From career pivots to personal reinvention, today’s adults—especially those in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond—are embracing shared living and short-term rentals as smart, flexible solutions. Whether navigating a major life change like divorce, relocating for a new job, downsizing, or simply seeking financial freedom and companionship, co-living offers more than just a roof over your head. It’s a way to stay connected, cut costs, and create a home that fits your life—right now.

Why Are More Adults Choosing Roommates?

Recent data shows that over 15% of Americans live in shared households, often due to life changes like divorce, job loss, or the death of a partner. According to Pew Research, 22% of U.S. adults have lived in shared housing at some point, with many seeking short-term rental solutions during times of transition.

There are many reasons more adults are choosing to live with roommates. According to Roommates.com, the top cited reasons are:

1. Life Transitions—Divorce, career changes, and relocations often require flexible living arrangements.

1. Financial Relief—Shared housing offers a powerful solution to rising rent prices and the economic shift. It puts you in control of your financial situation and makes living more affordable.

1. Companionship—Roommates provide more than just a living arrangement. They offer social interaction and help combat loneliness, especially for older adults, by making them feel understood and less isolated.

1. Safety & Security—Living with others can offer peace of mind and help in emergencies, providing reassurance and peace of mind.

The Rise of “Golden Divorces” & Senior Roommates

Life Transitions

Divorce rates among adults 50 and older have doubled since the 1990s, and more older adults are seeking roommates for financial stability, companionship, and security. Fixed retirement incomes make sharing expenses a smart move. Living alone can be isolating, and having a roommate offers a social connection and an extra layer of safety.

At Roommates.com, we understand the unique challenges adults face during life transitions. With years of experience helping people connect with the most compatible roommate or housing option, we’ve been the trusted authority on finding the right room for their needs since 2004.

Life can be unpredictable—whether it’s a divorce, job loss, or the death of a partner—and many adults find themselves needing a temporary place to live. Short-term rentals offer a flexible and quick solution during these times, allowing individuals to stabilize their situation while they plan their next steps.

For adults in these circumstances, temporary rentals provide a space to focus on personal recovery or professional transitions without the long-term commitment of a traditional lease. Short-term rentals offer flexibility, affordability, and convenience—making them ideal for transition users. They provide:

1. Flexibility: Many short-term rentals do not require year-long commitments, allowing renters to move when needed.

1. Affordability: Many come fully furnished, eliminating the cost of buying new furniture.

1. Convenience: Short-term rentals are perfect for quick housing solutions, whether you’re moving between homes, relocating for work, or experiencing significant life changes.

1. Fully furnished options: Many short-term rentals come with the essentials: a bed, wardrobe/closet, desk, en suite or shared bathroom, utilities, parking, etc., making them an attractive option for adults seeking a new place to live–especially during transition.

Cutting Costs and Gaining Stability: The Financial Perks of Having a Roommate

Financial Relief

Sharing living expenses with a roommate can significantly reduce the financial burden, particularly for seniors after divorce or retirement, when income is limited. By lowering the costs of rent, utilities, and other household expenses, individuals can experience less financial stress, which directly impacts mental and physical health. Reduced stress can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and contribute to overall well-being.

Sharing a home living expenses with a roommate as an adult offers significant financial relief, especially during life transitions like a job change, a move, or a divorce. Instead of shouldering the entire burden of rent or utilities alone, splitting costs can make a significant difference. For example, if the average one-bedroom apartment in a city costs $1,800 per month, but a two-bedroom is $2,400, two roommates could each pay just $1,200—saving $600 per month while enjoying a similar living space.

Beyond rent, roommates can share utilities like electricity, water, and internet, cutting monthly expenses even further. For those recovering from financial setbacks, having a roommate can provide stability while rebuilding savings or adjusting to new circumstances.

Without the responsibility of a mortgage or the full weight of rent, adults can allocate money toward paying down debt, securing health insurance, or preparing for the next chapter of their lives.

Even more minor shared expenses—like groceries, streaming services, or household essentials—add to substantial savings over time, making co-living an appealing and practical financial strategy for adults looking to reduce costs and regain economic security.

Built-In Companionship: How Roommates Help Combat Loneliness

Companionship

Loneliness is a major contributor to emotional and mental health issues, particularly for adults who live alone due to life transitions like divorce, the loss of a partner, or an empty nest. Having a roommate provides built-in social interaction, emotional support, and companionship, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and boost overall happiness. Whether it’s sharing a meal, watching a show together, or simply having someone to chat with at the end of the day, these daily connections can improve mood, lower stress, and foster a sense of belonging.

For older adults, companionship is even more essential. Studies show that social isolation can increase health risks, including depression and cognitive decline, while strong social connections can improve cognitive function and even extend life expectancy.

A roommate offers more than just financial benefits—they create a supportive living environment where individuals can share experiences, look out for each other, and maintain an active social life. Whether celebrating small wins, offering a listening ear, or having a go-to partner for activities, a roommate can help turn a house into a home while promoting long-term mental and physical well-being.

Peace of Mind: How Roommates Provide Safety and Support

Safety & Security

A roommate can offer an added layer of security and peace of mind for adults with health concerns, mobility issues, or even if no other family members live in the area. In an emergency—a fall, sudden illness, or other medical event—a roommate can immediately assist or call for help.

This level of support can be life-saving, especially for seniors or individuals recovering from surgery or injury. Simply knowing that someone is nearby can significantly reduce anxiety and promote a sense of stability, making independent living a safer and more viable option.

Beyond emergencies, having a roommate can also deter potential security risks. An occupied home is less likely to be targeted by intruders, and sharing a living space means someone is there to check in, notice irregularities, or even just offer reassurance after a stressful day.

These benefits highlight why finding the right living arrangement through a trusted resource like Roommates.com is essential for adults navigating life transitions. A roommate isn't just someone to split rent with—they can be a key factor in maintaining physical safety and emotional well-being.

Finding the Right Fit: Key Factors in Choosing an Adult Roommate or Room Rental

Choosing the right roommate as an adult involves more than finding someone to split the rent with—it’s about ensuring compatibility, security, and convenience.

When searching for a short-term rental, location should be a top priority. The right location can significantly affect your daily routine, whether you need to be close to work, family, or public transportation. If you’re in transition due to a job change, divorce, or temporary work assignment, consider how accessible grocery stores, medical facilities, and entertainment options are from the rental. A convenient and well-situated rental can enhance your overall experience and reduce unnecessary stress during your stay.

Equally important is compatibility in lifestyle, cleanliness, and social habits to create a comfortable and harmonious living environment. Taking the time to assess these factors can help prevent conflicts and ensure a smoother co-living experience. That’s where Roommates.com can help you find your perfect match.

Beyond location and compatibility, amenities are crucial in making a short-term rental feel like home. Essential features like high-speed Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and furnished living spaces can make your stay comfortable and hassle-free. Additionally, assessing whether the rental aligns with your lifestyle needs is essential—whether you prefer a quiet, private space or a social, roommate-friendly environment.

Flexible lease terms, security features, and clear rental policies are also key factors to consider, ensuring a convenient and stress-free short-term stay.

Having a Roommate as an Adult Can Improve Overall Health and Wellbeing

As we navigate adulthood, our living arrangements play a more significant role in our overall well-being than we might realize. While living alone has its perks, it can also come with financial strain, social isolation, and added stress—especially for those experiencing major life transitions. More adults are discovering that having a roommate isn’t just about splitting rent; it’s about creating a supportive, balanced home environment that enhances quality of life.

Whether it's reducing financial stress, having companionship, or simply feeling safer at home, living with a roommate can bring unexpected mental and physical health benefits. From increased social interaction that combats loneliness to shared responsibilities that lighten the load, the right living situation can have a profound impact.

Whether navigating a significant life change or simply needing a temporary solution, Roommates.com is here to help. Visit us today for the perfect roommate and a short-term rental that fits your needs.

Sign up at Roommates.com today and find the right living situation for your needs.