Coliving is more than just sharing a roof — it’s a lifestyle rooted in collaboration, flexibility, and shared values. This guide shares practical tips to help you thrive in community-oriented coliving spaces, whether you’re staying for a week or several months.
Don’t do this. Unless you are, like me, in the middle of nowhere in Morocco. Without any traffic in sight.
When I first stumbled into the world of coliving, I was searching for more than just a place to crash. I wanted, first and foremost, to beat isolation, but also feel connection, inspiration, and – I guess – a sense of belonging—something I’d tasted during my early travel years and remote work stints across the globe. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-run, community-driven coliving can transform not just your productivity, but your entire outlook on life.
From rural retreats in Galicia to creative hubs in Central Europe, my journey has been shaped by the people I’ve met, the projects I’ve joined, and the countless shared meals, brainstorms, and quiet moments in communal spaces. I’ve experienced the highs of planning new ventures with housemates and the lows of spending more time than it was healthy in places that lacked true community spirit. These lessons, gathered over two decades of living and working remotely, have taught me what matters in a coliving space—and what makes the magic happen.
Whether you’re a digital nomad, artist, entrepreneur, or someone craving a more intentional way of living and working, these tips and insights are drawn from real life, not just a listicle. Here’s how to make the most of your next (or first!) community-based coliving adventure.
25 Smart Tips for Coliving Success
Before You Arrive
Random but real
Prioritize what matters to you
Whether it’s high-speed quality Wi-Fi or ensuite bedrooms, make sure the space you are headed to suits your needs.Scout for dedicated workspaces
The best colivings offer more than a kitchen table. Look for coworking rooms, phone booths, or even outdoor desks. In some places I was lucky to experience, I found that having both focused zones and casual nooks made all the difference for deep work and spontaneous collaboration.Clarify your working hours
Let housemates know your key working times. You might end up living with a night owl coder or an early-bird artist, but clear communication will help you guys the peace (and the projects on track).Pack light, but don’t forget adapters
Essentials only, but don’t forget universal adapters, chargers, and any specialty tools for your craft or business. I always bring a lightweight notebook for sketching ideas during group sessions, and during all my years of traveling, a compact multi-socket has never left my bag, being one of the most used items ever. It’s saved me countless times when I needed to charge my camera, phone, and laptop all at once — because let’s be honest, finding three usable plugs in one spot is a rare luxury.Join the house group chat early
Most colivings have WhatsApp or Slack groups. Say hi, ask questions, and get a feel for the community vibe before you even arrive. It’s how you could discover a sunrise yoga tradition or make your first friend before even setting foot inside.
Settling In
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- The call of the forest was loud in Anceu
Set boundaries around work and play
It’s tempting to join every dinner or hike, but I’ve learned to carve out “focus time.” Headphones work wonders.Establish a morning or evening ritual
Whether it’s coffee in the garden or journaling before breakfast, a simple routine grounds you. In rural Spain, I would make some time each day for a walk through the fields—a practice I still cherish.Use headphones for calls and music
It’s respectful and keeps the peace, especially in shared spaces.Share your skills
Host a workshop, offer a creative workshop, or teach a tech trick. Some of the closest friendships begin with impromptu language exchanges or website clinics around the kitchen table.Respect shared spaces
Clean as you go in kitchens and lounges. Don’t leave your stuff lying around—whether it’s dirty dishes, books, clothing, paintbrushes, laptops, or musical instruments.Use digital tools for chores and expenses
Apps like Splitwise (for money) and Google Sheets (for cleaning schedules and shopping lists) make shared living easier for everyone.
Get involved in community events
Attend at least a few group dinners, hikes, open mics, or project showcases.But also balance social and solo time
Don’t feel pressured to join every event. Embrace JOMO and take time for yourself when you need to recharge or focus deeply on your work.Be transparent about guests
If you want to invite friends or a partner, check the house policy and give housemates a heads-up.Embrace cultural differences
You’ll likely live with people from around the world and from many creative backgrounds. Stay curious and open-minded. Some of my best memories come from learning to cook new dishes or celebrating holidays I’d never heard of.Budget for unexpected expenses
Factor in not just rent, but also shared groceries, outings, work supplies, and the occasional coworking day at a nearby café or local studio.
Making the Most of Your Stay
If you are like me, fifteen days of non-stop Fall showers wouldn’t prevent you from entering the awesome Anceu pool.
Check the lease for flexibility
Look for short-term options that can perhaps be extended if you find your happy place, clear cancellation terms, and what’s included in your rent, especially for stays of 1–3 months.Have a backup work spot
Scout local cafés, libraries, or even outdoor spaces in case the house gets noisy or the Wi-Fi drops.Rotate cooking or shopping duties
Shared meals are a classic coliving ritual—plus, they save money and time, and spark great conversations.Speak up early and kindly
If something’s bothering you, communicate your thoughts and feelings directly, honestly, and respectfully. Don’t let little things fester—open communication, empathy, and understanding are key to community health.Celebrate wins together
Finished a big project? Landed a new client? Completed a mural? Invite your housemates for a celebratory drink, dinner, or art show.Be flexible and adaptable
House dynamics – like everything in life, really – change. New people arrive, routines shift. Go with the flow and stay positive—each group brings new energy and ideas.Keep emergency contacts handy
Know how to reach local healthcare, your embassy, and house management.Reflect and share feedback
After a few weeks, review what’s working and what’s not. If you feel like it, you can also suggest improvements to make the space better for everyone.Enjoy the journey
Coliving is about more than work—it’s about growth, connection, and adventure. Embrace every moment, from the quiet mornings to the spontaneous road trips.
Coliving FAQs
What exactly is coliving?
Coliving is a modern housing concept where you rent a private bedroom—sometimes with an en-suite bathroom—within a shared apartment, house, or building. Communal spaces like kitchens, lounges, studios, and work areas are shared, blending privacy with community. Many colivings include utilities, cleaning, and social events in the rent. For me, the best ones are those where the community isn’t just an afterthought—it’s the main event.
Some of my coliver buddies at Anceu, Spain – Fall 2024
How are coliving spaces typically organized?
Some are cozy village houses, others are sleek city lofts or even castles. The ones that stick with me—like Anceu, Alpiness, and Chateau—are those where every detail, from the communal kitchen to the garden workspace, is designed to foster connection and creativity.
Who is coliving best suited for?
Coliving attracts a diverse crowd: digital nomads, remote workers, artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking a flexible, community-oriented lifestyle. I’ve met people launching startups, recording albums, building art installations, and everything in between.
What should I consider when choosing a coliving space?
Key factors include:
- Location (rural, village, mountain, beach, or city)
- Amenities (coworking, studios, workshops, gyms)
- Safety and accessibility
- Community vibe and resident mix
- House rules and lease terms
- Support for your work or creative needs
Always ask: “What’s the community like? Are there regular events? Is there a culture of sharing and mutual support?”
How do coliving spaces support remote work and social connection?
Many colivings provide high-speed internet, dedicated work areas or coworking spaces, studios, and quiet zones for calls or focused work. Communal spaces and regular events (dinners, workshops, art nights) foster networking, friendship, and creative synergy. Flexible lease terms and all-inclusive pricing simplify logistics, so you can focus on your work and community life.
Outings are a must!
How do I choose a coliving space that aligns with my lifestyle and social preferences?
To choose a coliving space that truly aligns with your lifestyle and social preferences, focus on these key steps:
- Identify your priorities
Decide what matters most: privacy, community events, dedicated workspaces, or a quiet environment? Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. - Assess the community vibe
Every coliving space has its own atmosphere—some are social and event-driven, while others are quieter and more independent. Check the age range, interests, and typical activities of residents. Ask current or past residents about their experiences to see if the community matches your personality and social needs. - Evaluate amenities and workspaces
For remote work, prioritize spaces with reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, dedicated coworking areas, and quiet zones for calls or focused work. Confirm these features with management or by reading reviews. - Consider location and accessibility
Choose a location close to public transit, grocery stores, gyms, and other essentials that fit your daily routine if that’s important to you. On the other hand, if you like exploring the unknown and getting surprised, my suggestion is you pick a spot with easy access to nature. The more remote, the better. IMO, no city coliving will ever beat the communities forged in rural areas. - Review house rules and expectations
Carefully read the house rules about quiet hours, guest policies, cleaning schedules, and use of shared resources. Make sure these align with your habits, especially if you work across time zones or have specific privacy needs. - Budget realistically
Factor in all costs: rent, utilities, deposits, and shared expenses. Use budgeting apps to track your spending and ensure the space fits your financial comfort zone. - Visit or virtually tour the space
If possible (rarely, TBH) visit at different times to get a sense of noise levels, cleanliness, and how residents interact. If you can’t visit, ask for a virtual tour (Briançon’s Cloud Citadel offers a 3D virtual visit!) or video call with management and residents (something that you’ll probably have to do anyway if community-driven colivings is what you are after). - Engage with the community early
Join the house group chat or online forum, introduce yourself, and ask questions. This helps you gauge the openness and responsiveness of the group. - Clarify lease terms
Read the lease carefully for details on term length, cancellation policy, and what’s included. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on anything unclear. - Trust your instincts
After gathering all the info, go with the space where you feel most comfortable and excited, not just the one with the best amenities or lowest price, if you can afford choosing.
Final Thoughts: Coliving as a Path to Growth and Belonging
Some of the most epic surroundings ever – Anceu, 2024
Coliving as a digital nomad, creative, or remote worker is a unique adventure—one that can supercharge your productivity, expand your network, and make every place feel like home. With these tips and insights, you’ll be ready to thrive, wherever you land next. Pack your laptop, your sense of adventure, and an open mind—the world is waiting!
If you’re ever in Northwestern Spain or dreaming of a rural retreat, a mountain hideaway, or a creative hub, maybe our paths will cross in one of these magical community-based colivings. Until then, keep seeking out those places where connection, creativity, and growth come first—because that’s where the real magic happens.
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