Shared Housing Guide for Remote Workers

The allure of the digital nomad lifestyle is undeniable. The freedom to work from anywhere and meet like-minded people are just a couple of perks. That being said, with this freedom comes the challenge of finding suitable accommodation that caters to the unique needs of remote workers. Could shared housing be the right solution?

We did the research and presented it in this shared housing guide for remote workers. Keep reading to get insights into all you need to know on how to navigate the co-living space and what options are out there!

Here you will find different types of shared housing, price comparisons, useful websites for accommodations all around the world, and more.

Co-Living for Remote Workers

At its core, co-living is a modern take on communal living. It emphasizes intentional shared living spaces and fosters connections among residents. It’s a concept that has been around for centuries but has only just recently gained traction among the digital nomad community. Why? Because it perfectly marries the need for community, convenience, and flexibility.

The Origins and Evolution of Shared Housing: 

Despite shared living spaces having ancient roots, modern co-living tailored for digital nomads is a recent phenomenon. It’s a response to the surge in remote work, accommodating those who seek supportive communities for their nomadic lifestyle. Co-living provides both accommodation and a sense of belonging, serving as hubs where like-minded individuals connect, share experiences, and understand the challenges of a mobile work-life. This concept adapts to the changing dynamics of remote work, offering a communal solution for those in search of a supportive environment amidst increased mobility.

Why is Shared Housing a Match for Remote Workers? 

Co-living spaces often come equipped with high-speed internet and dedicated workspaces. Furthermore,  they are located in areas that are conducive to both work and leisure. They offer a plug-and-play solution – you arrive with your suitcase and everything is set up for you. No more hunting for furniture or worrying about utility bills.

Shared housing offers remote workers remarkable flexibility and freedom by eliminating the need for long-term commitments. This adaptability suits the dynamic nature of remote work, granting the convenience and mobility that modern location-independent professionals seek.

Comparing Traditional Accommodation vs. Shared Housing

The decision to opt for traditional accommodation or dive into the co-living trend is one that many digital nomads face. Both options come with their unique set of advantages and challenges. Let’s break them down:

1. Costs

• Traditional Accommodations:
  • Rent: Often requires a long-term commitment, with monthly rent varying based on location and size.
  • Utilities: Bills such as electricity, water, and internet are typically separate and can fluctuate.
  • Furniture and Setup: Initial costs can be high, especially if moving into an unfurnished space. This includes buying furniture, kitchen essentials, and other household items.
• Co-living:
  • All-Inclusive Rent: Most co-living spaces, like those on Outsite and LifeX, offer all-inclusive rent. This means utilities, internet, and other amenities are bundled into a single price.
  • No Setup Costs: Co-living spaces come fully furnished, eliminating the need for initial setup costs.
  • Flexibility in Duration: Many co-living platforms offer short-term leases, allowing for more flexibility in budgeting.

2. Amenities

• Traditional Accommodation:
  • Basic Amenities: Typically include standard facilities like a kitchen, bathroom, and living area.
  • Internet: It might require setting up and additional monthly costs.
  • Maintenance: Some repairs or maintenance might be the tenant’s responsibility unless covered by the landlord.
• Co-living:
  • Enhanced Amenities: Beyond the basics, co-living spaces often boast co-working areas, recreational zones, and even gyms.
  • High-speed Internet: A given in most co-living spaces, fast internet caters to the needs of digital nomads.
  • Maintenance Included: Platforms ensure that any maintenance issues are promptly addressed, offering a hassle-free living experience.

3. Flexibility

• Traditional Accommodations:
  • Lease Duration: Often requires a long-term commitment, which might not suit the ever-moving digital nomad.
  • Moving Out: Ending a lease early can come with penalties or loss of security deposits.

• Co-living:
  • Short-term Options: Many co-living spaces offer weekly or monthly leases, perfect for nomads on the move.
  • Easy Transitions: Platforms like Outpost allow for easy transitions between their various locations, making it simple for nomads to explore new destinations.

Traditional Accommodation VS Co-Living Traits Comparison

While traditional accommodations offer a sense of permanence and can be cost-effective in the long run, co-living caters to the dynamic lifestyle of digital nomads. The all-inclusive nature, community vibe, and flexibility of co-living spaces make them an attractive option for many remote workers. 

However, the best choice ultimately depends on individual preferences, work commitments and travel plans.

Comparing Prices of Traditional Accommodation vs. Co-living in Popular Digital Nomad Destinations

1. Chiang Mai, Thailand: Shared Housing Price Comparison

Traditional Accommodation (Studio Apartment):

Cost: Prices can range from $250 to $500 per month, depending on the location and amenities.

Flexibility: Typically requires a 6-month to 1-year lease.

Co-living Spaces:

Cost: Co-living spaces in Chiang Mai, such as those found on platforms like Nomadico, can range from $300 to $700 per month, including utilities and other amenities.

Flexibility: Offers short-term stays, ranging from a week to several months.

Airbnb:

A studio apartment in Chiang Mai on Airbnb typically starts at $20 per night, depending on the location, amenities, and season.

2. Bangkok, Thailand: Shared Housing Price Comparison

Traditional Accommodation (Studio Apartment):

Cost: Prices range from $350 to $800 per month, depending on the location and amenities.

Flexibility: Typically requires a 6-month to 1-year lease.

Co-living:

Cost: Co-living spaces in Bangkok can range from $400 to $900 per month, including utilities and other amenities.

Flexibility: Offers short-term stays, ranging from a week to several months.

Airbnb: 

A studio apartment in Bangkok typically costs a minimum of $25 per night, depending on the location and amenities.

3. Bali, Indonesia: Shared Housing Price Comparison

Traditional Accommodation (One-Bedroom Apartment):

Cost: Prices range from $400 to $600 per month.

Flexibility: Varies, but many places offer monthly leases.

Co-living:

Cost: Co-living spaces in Bali, such as those found on websites like Outsite, can range from $300 to $800 per month.

Flexibility: Short-term stays are common, with options ranging from days to months.

Airbnb:

In Bali, a studio can cost around $40 – $60, give or take. Prices can be higher in tourist-heavy areas like Seminyak and Ubud.

4. Medellin, Colombia Co-Living Price Comparison

Traditional Accommodation (One Bedroom):

Cost: Prices range from $330 to $700 per month.

Flexibility: Typically requires a 6-month to 1-year lease.

Co-living:

Cost: Co-living spaces in Medellin can range from $400 to $900 per month.

Flexibility: Many co-living spaces offer short-term leases, perfect for nomads.

Airbnb:

A studio in Medellin on Airbnb can start from $50 per night. Poblado, a popular area with expats, might have slightly higher prices.

5. Playa Del Carmen, Mexico: Co-Living Price Comparison

Traditional Housing (one-bedroom)

Cost: Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in Playa Del Carmen generally range from $600 to $1000 USD per month. The exact price can vary based on the location, proximity to the beach, and the amenities provided.

Flexibility: Many places in the downtown area of Playa Del Carmen have a contract fee equivalent to one month’s rent. This fee notarizes the contract, making it a binding document. Typically, leases can range from a few months to a year.

Co-living:

Cost: Co-living spaces in Playa del Carmen can vary widely in price, but they often include utilities and other amenities in the monthly cost. Given the growing popularity of the city among digital nomads, there are several co-living spaces available, each with its own pricing structure. For example, ananacoliving has apartments that range from $500 – $600 per month.

Flexibility: Co-living spaces are known for their flexibility, allowing for short-term stays that can range from a week to several months. This is ideal for digital nomads who might not want to commit to a long-term lease.

Airbnb:

Traditionally, the prices for a studio apartment on Airbnb can vary widely based on location, amenities, and the season. It’s common to find listings starting at $40 per night, with luxury properties or those closer to the beach going for higher prices.

Please note that these are approximate prices and can vary based on the time of year, specific location within the city, and current demand. For the most accurate and up-to-date prices, it’s recommended to check directly with housing providers.

If you’re looking to get an in-depth understanding of living costs and comparisons across various locations, Numbeo and Nomadlist are invaluable resources worth exploring. Both sites provide insights into the nuances of the nomadic lifestyle and can guide you in making informed decisions. For a firsthand look at accommodation options and to secure direct quotes, turn to trusted platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com. They offer a wide array of listings tailored to various needs and budgets, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay.

The Upsides of Shared Housing for Remote Workers

Traveling can often lead to moments of solitude and introspection, which, while valuable in their own right, can sometimes make one feel lonely. That’s where the true magic of co-living shines through. 

In co-living spaces, you’ll find companionship in shared experiences, making your journey all the more enriching. These spaces typically come equipped with reliable, high-speed internet, ensuring you stay connected with both your newfound community and the digital world. 

Moreover, co-living arrangements are meticulously prepared for your arrival, making them a hassle-free experience to settle in and instantly become a part of something special.

Instant Remote-Working Community:

Co-living spaces provide an instant community of like-minded individuals. The aforementioned websites Outsite and Nomadico emphasize community building, ensuring you’re never truly alone.

Move-in Ready Shared Housing:

Forget the hassle of setting up utilities or buying furniture. Co-living spaces, like those offered by LifeX, are fully furnished and come with all the amenities you might need.

Diverse Co-living Locations: 

Whether you want to work by the beach in Bali or in a bustling city like Berlin, there’s a co-living space for you. And you can easily hop between locations on a single membership.

Fast-Speed Internet:

A fast and stable Wi-Fi connection is a given in shared housing. This relieves you from the troubles you can come across when renting traditional accommodation.

Challenges in Co-living

While co-living offers numerous advantages, it’s not without its challenges. If you’re not used to living with other people, you could need some time to adjust.

Balancing Community and Personal Space:

Living with others means adjusting to different personalities and habits. It’s essential to find a space that offers a balance between communal activities and personal downtime.

Evaluating Cost-effectiveness: 

Some co-living spaces, especially in prime locations, can be pricier than traditional rentals. It’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the costs.

Ensuring Reliable Amenities: 

Not all co-living spaces are created equal. While most promise high-speed internet and workspaces, every location isn’t guaranteed to follow through on such promises. It’s essential to do your research, and platforms like Nomad Stays can be a good starting point.

Types of Co-Living Solutions for Remote Workers

Shared housing options are diverse, catering to various needs influenced by your work, mood, or budget. So, whether you seek a creative co-working space, a serene retreat, or an affordable solution, there will be something that suits your preferences and requirements. You can explore and find your ideal match.

Local Guesthouses & Villas: 

If the villa experience is your cup of tea, check out Nomadico. It teams up with local accommodations to offer affordable co-living homes tailored for digital nomads. They ensure a comfortable stay and workspace for high productivity.

Private Apartments:

LifeX offers beautifully designed private and shared apartments in various cities, ensuring that members have everything they need from the moment they move in.

Is Co-living the Best Shared Housing Option for IT Remote Working?

For IT professionals and other remote workers, co-living offers a blend of work and relaxation. With dedicated workspaces, high-speed internet, and a community of like-minded individuals, it can be an ideal environment for productivity and networking. Moreover, the flexibility of co-living spaces allows IT professionals to work in different time zones without the constraints of traditional office hours. The community aspect also provides opportunities for collaboration, brainstorming and problem-solving with peers.

However, while co-living can be an attractive option for IT professionals and remote workers, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks.

Shared housing may not suit everyone’s privacy preferences, and conflicts can arise in communal living situations. Additionally, the level of noise and distractions within co-living spaces may not be conducive to focused work for some individuals. Therefore, it’s crucial to assess your personal needs and work style before choosing a shared housing option.

A Tour of Global Co-living Platforms

Navigating the myriad of co-living platforms can be daunting. Here’s a snapshot of what some of the top platforms offer:

Tips for Choosing the Right Co-living Space for Remote Workers

To summarize, we’ve assembled some questions below that you should ask yourself to help in choosing the best type of accommodation for your preferences.

When diving into the world of co-living for digital nomads, consider the following:

Location: Is it close to the city center, the beach, or nature? Is there a digital nomad community?

Amenities: High-speed internet is a must… And what about workspaces? Recreational areas?

Community: Does the space organize events? Is there an emphasis on building a tight-knit community?

Flexibility: Can you easily move in and out? Are there short-term lease options?

The world of co-living offers a plethora of opportunities for digital nomads. It’s a world where community meets convenience, where work meets wanderlust. As with any lifestyle choice, it’s essential to do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and find what works best for you.

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