The annual Flatmates.com.au National Share Accommodation Survey (NSAS) highlighted how shared living is helping Australians navigate rising housing costs.
Among more than 8,700 respondents nationwide, 35% reported rent increases in the past six months, with half of those hikes exceeding expectations.
A growing financial burden has left 57% of tenants struggling to meet rent payments, an increase of 14% compared to 2023. Additionally, 55% believe the dream of homeownership is out of reach for young Australians.
“Ongoing cost-of-living pressures have reshaped housing choices for many,” said Claudia Conley (pictured above), product manager at Flatmates.com.au. “Affordability constraints have pushed 43% of respondents into shared housing as they seek ways to manage rising costs.”
Shared living is no longer just for younger demographics. The over-55 age group has seen a notable rise in participation, growing by 7% year-on-year. Among these, 51.6% cited financial necessity, while 10% opted for shared housing to combat loneliness.
“This trend shows the adaptability of shared housing as a solution for different age groups,” Conley said. “While affordability drives many, we’ve also seen a 30% rise in older Australians seeking companionship.”
Many tenants are turning spare rooms into income opportunities.
According to the survey, 36% of respondents listed unoccupied rooms on Flatmates.com.au, with 72% citing rent relief as their primary motivation.
Meanwhile, 48% expressed interest in “home share” arrangements, trading rent reductions for household work.
“Renting out a spare room or exchanging work for reduced rent reflects the growing creativity Australians are applying to tackle financial challenges,” Conley said.
Landlords are also adopting shared living models, with 36% offering their homes as share houses for less than a year and 28% doing so for one to two years. Notably, 60% of tenants knew their landlord, up from 55% in 2023, reflecting a growing trend of landlords renting out rooms directly.
“Shared housing is increasingly a viable option for landlords navigating rising interest rates and market pressures,” said Conley. “While it offers financial relief, some landlords – 22% of those surveyed – are considering selling properties due to higher costs.”
Shared living continues to emerge as a versatile solution to Australia’s housing challenges.
Whether through spare room rentals, home share arrangements, or landlords opening properties to tenants, the model offers financial relief and lifestyle benefits amid rising costs.
“Shared housing isn’t just a stopgap – it’s a transformative option for tenants and landlords alike,” Conley said.
Get the hottest and freshest mortgage news delivered right into your inbox. Subscribe now to our FREE daily newsletter.
