Easy Ways to Save on Rent: Roommates, House Hacking & More
Rent is getting more expensive everywhere. If you’re feeling the pinch, you’re not alone. The good news? There are simple ways to pay less, o, what is the same, save on rent.
Whether you’re a student, starting your career, or just looking to save, these options can help you cut costs without giving up comfort.
Here are some smart ways to make your rent more manageable.
1. Split Pay with Roommates
Sharing a place with others is still one of the easiest ways to save money. When you split the pay, bills, and internet, you can cut your housing costs in half or more.
How to Do It Right:
- Try apps like Roomi, SpareRoom, or even Craigslist (just be cautious).
- Talk openly about chores, guests, and bills.
- Write down your agreements, so everyone’s on the same page.
Quick Tip: Look for “by-the-room” rentals. These often come furnished and offer flexible leases.
2. House Hacking: Rent Out Part of Your Home
House hacking means you buy a home and rent out part of it. If done right, your rent (or mortgage) could be covered entirely.
Common Setups:
- Live in one unit of a duplex or triplex, rent the others.
- Rent out extra bedrooms.
- Turn your basement or garage into a small rental unit.
Why It Helps:
The money you collect helps cover your costs. If you buy smart, you could even live for free.
Keep in Mind: Being a landlord comes with rules and upkeep. Know your local laws and choose tenants carefully.
3. Try Co-Living Spaces
Keywords: co-living, affordable urban housing
Co-living is like shared housing but more organized. You rent a bedroom and share spaces like the kitchen and living room with others. Some places include cleaning, furniture, and events.
Why People Like It:
- Cheaper than renting your own place
- Bills and Wi-Fi are usually included
- Short leases are common
- You meet people right away
Check out places like Common, Bungalow, and Outsite if you live in a big city.
4. Live with a Homeowner or Be a Caretaker
Some homeowners will give you cheaper rent if you help around the house. You might walk their dog, mow the lawn, or just keep the place safe.
Where to Look:
- Facebook housing groups
- University boards
- MindMyHouse, Caretaker.org
These deals work well if you’re reliable and don’t mind helping out.
5. Rent a Room in Someone’s Home
This setup is simple. You rent a bedroom in a home where the owner also lives. It’s often quieter and more stable than living with a bunch of roommates.
What to Expect:
- Bills and internet are often included
- Fewer people in the house
- Lease terms may be flexible
Just be sure to talk through house rules before moving in.
6. Live Small: Vans, RVs, or Tiny Homes
If you want more freedom and fewer bills, living in a van, RV, or tiny house might be for you. It’s not for everyone, but it can save a lot of money.
What to Know:
- You’ll need legal places to park
- Upfront costs can be high, but monthly bills are low
- Great if you can work from anywhere
Check out Tiny House Talk or Vanlife Diaries for tips and stories.
7. House Sitting and Home Swaps
House sitting means you live in someone’s home while they’re away. You might water plants, bring in the mail, or take care of pets. In return, you stay there for free.
Best Sites:
These gigs don’t last forever, but they’re great for travel or in-between places.
You don’t have to pick just one way to save. Some people rent a room and house hack. Others try co-living while they save up to buy.
Be open. Try what works for you. There are more options than you might think.
If rent is eating up your income, don’t wait. Start looking at listings. Ask around. Try something new.
