How To Find a Roommate in NYC

Living in New York City can be a dream come true, but it can also be a nightmare if you end up with a terrible roommate. But fear not my fellow New Yorkers, I have some tips on how to find the perfect roommate in NYC:

Create a Roommate Wishlist

Before you start your search, make a wishlist of all the qualities you want in a roommate. Do you want someone who is neat and tidy or someone who doesn't mind a little mess? Are you looking for a roommate who is outgoing and social or someone who is quiet and keeps to themselves? Think about what qualities you value in a roommate and create a list.

Check out Craigslist (Beware of the weirdos)

Craigslist is a great resource for finding roommates in NYC, but be warned, there are some weirdos out there. Be cautious when responding to ads and make sure to meet potential roommates in a public place. And if someone asks you to "Netflix and chill" on the first meeting, run for the hills.

Attend Speed Roommating Events 

Speed dating may be a thing of the past, but speed roommating is all the rage in NYC. These events allow you to meet multiple potential roommates quickly, making it easier to find a good match. Plus, it's a great way to practice your elevator pitch on why you're the perfect roommate

Use Tinder for Roommates

Yes, you read that right. Tinder isn't just for finding dates, it's also a great way to find a roommate. There are even apps specifically designed for roommate matching, such as Roomi and Roomster. Swipe right on someone who seems like a good match and see where it takes you.

Ask Friends and Family for Referrals

Your friends and family may know of someone who is looking for a roommate or who knows of someone who is looking. Reach out to your network and see if they can connect you with potential roommates. And if they don't have any leads, at least you'll have someone to commiserate with about the struggle of finding a roommate in NYC.

Do a Background Check...on Yourself

Before you start your roommate search, do a background check...on yourself. Make sure your social media profiles are clean and professional. Nothing will turn off a potential roommate faster than seeing your drunken college photos from 10 years ago.

Coliving with international folk

Fred Wilson famously said, “Given New York City’s cultural diversity, it has always attracted creative people.” Though maybe it wasn’t his intention, he may have written NYC’s mantra. New York City attracts dream-chasers from all over the world, boasting an immigrant composition of 40%, it’s inevitable you’ll meet folks from countries you can’t even pronounce.

Sharing an apartment with internationals can be a highly entertaining change to everyday life. You’ll pick up on phrases and swears you’ve never heard before, and see language quirks that make you question the English language itself, transforming your roommate experience into a fascinating discovery of cultural diversity.

Facilitating the find with Roomrs

Searching for roommates on your own can be challenging, from filtering profiles on Craigslist to using third-party apps that seldom bring desired results. Roomrs is here to assist you with the search; our applicants fill out a questionnaire and are screened for background checks. We always consider lifestyles and personalities to find you roommates who integrate well and build communities around our co-living spaces.

Unsure where you want to settle in the city that never sleeps? We’re also your personal NYC database. Let us know what atmosphere and area preferences you’re looking for; a conversation with our agents will recommend the best areas for your liking. Busting avenues and available nightlife right outside your door make downtown Manhattan the right fit. Looking for something more relaxed and suburban, yet close enough to all the action? Queens is right up your alley.

Roomrs is an all-inclusive NYC coliving option that works with you to not only find ideal roommates, but the living spaces, locale, and the best-fitting surroundings for your next lifestyle.

Welcome to New York, it’s been waiting for you.

Interested in learning more about how we help New York newcomers? Find out more about co living apartments in NYC!