Here are some practical tips to guide your roommate search.

Finding someone to live with — especially a complete stranger — can feel overwhelming. But for many people, sharing a home is a necessity, not just a preference. With the rising cost of solo living, known as the "singles tax," it’s significantly more expensive to rent alone. In fact, renters living by themselves pay thousands more annually compared to those splitting costs with roommates. So finding a compatible roommate can ease your financial burden and even improve your daily life.

Whether you're aiming to cut down on rent, moving to a new city, or just looking for company, a good roommate can make your living situation far more enjoyable. To help you navigate this journey, who specializes in friendships, to share her advice on finding a roommate who’s a great fit.

Know What You Want and Need in a Roommate

Choosing a roommate is a high-stakes decision. You're not just sharing rent—you’re sharing your home, personal space, and routines. A mismatch could impact your peace of mind or even your financial security if the person doesn’t hold up their end of the lease.

Start by writing down your ideal roommate traits and deal-breakers. Do you value cleanliness, quiet, or personal space? Are you okay with guests or pets? Having a checklist makes it easier to filter potential candidates and stay focused on your priorities.

Browse Room-for-Rent Ads on iROOMit

Kick off your search online, where you'll find a broader range of options. iROOMit is a powerful roommate and room-finding platform designed specifically for this purpose. You can search for available rooms and compatible roommates based on lifestyle, habits, and budget.

Each iROOMit listing typically includes details about the room, shared areas, preferences, and more. The platform also supports robust verification tools to help you screen candidates and avoid scams.

Post That You’re Looking for a Roommate

iROOMit also allows you to post your own listing — whether you have a spare room to rent or you’re searching for a new living arrangement. Just create a profile, set your preferences, and let potential roommates come to you.

Want to go old-school? Consider putting up flyers in community centers, cafes, or college campuses, especially if you’re looking in a specific neighborhood.

Pro Tip: Always verify that someone contacting you online is a real person. Schedule a video chat, ask for ID, and never share sensitive information like your Social Security number until you're signing a lease with someone you've vetted.

Ask Family, Friends, and Coworkers

Sometimes the best connections are through people you already know. Ask your friends, family, or coworkers if they know anyone looking for a roommate. This route can feel more comfortable—but it’s not without potential pitfalls.

"Living with a friend can test your relationship in unexpected ways," Gal says. "Issues might arise that you’ve never had to deal with before, like differing cleanliness standards or privacy boundaries."

Still, if both parties communicate openly, living with a friend can absolutely work. Just go into it with realistic expectations and a willingness to adapt.

Ask for References

Always ask potential roommates for references from past housemates or landlords. If they blame every past living situation on others, that’s a red flag.

Bonus Tip: You can do your own informal background check. Search their name online, check social media, or look into public records available in your state.

Ask the Right Questions

Interview your roommate candidates just like you would for a job. Write down questions ahead of time that touch on cleanliness, financial responsibility, daily routines, and boundaries.

According to iROOMit research, a common roommate complaint is someone who doesn’t clean. So don’t be shy about asking directly how chores would be shared or how often they clean shared spaces.

Spend Time Together Before Committing

Try to meet in person or at least have a video call before agreeing to move in together. It’ll help you spot any red flags — or confirm the good vibes you’re getting.

"Everyone starts out as a stranger," Gal says. "Taking the time to get to know someone might surprise you. They could turn out to be a close friend in the long run."

Remember: quirks that bother one person might be totally fine for another. Trust your instincts and don’t rush.

Don’t Ignore Red Flags

Listen to your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Keep an eye out for warning signs like:

• Avoidance of important questions
• Immature or disrespectful behavior
• Lack of a steady income
• Unwillingness to accept feedback
• Signs of problematic habits (like substance abuse or poor hygiene)
• Mentioning roommates who "were all the problem" in the past

It’s your home, so you deserve to feel safe and respected in it.

Confirm They Can Pay Rent

Even the friendliest roommate won’t help much if they can’t pay the bills. Be clear about rent expectations, utilities, and any other shared expenses. Ask for proof of income or employment, and consider checking their credit report if you're signing a lease together.

Bonus: on-time rent payments may boost both your credit scores if reported — another good reason to live with someone reliable.

What to Do After You Find "The One" (to Live With)

Once you’ve found a roommate who checks all the boxes, here’s what to do next:

• Exchange contact info
• Review the lease agreement together
• Finalize move-in date
• Agree on household responsibilities (chores, shared items, etc.)
• Sign the lease or a roommate agreement
• Here’s advice on how you can be a good roommate

Remember: living together is a two-way street. You also have a role in keeping the household harmonious. Open communication and mutual respect are key.

Living with someone — whether it’s your first time or not — is a major life decision. Take your time, trust your instincts, and use tools like iROOMit to make the process smoother and safer. Good luck on your roommate search!