In New York, it’s a bit impractical to get an apartment by yourself. Although it’s possible (and a lot of people do it), most of us find a roommate to ensure our savings account doesn’t spiral into an out-of-control nose dive. More than that, finding a roommate can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be an exciting opportunity.
Living in the Big Apple offers endless possibilities, and having a roommate can not only alleviate the financial burden but also provide companionship and support. Whether you’re new to the city or simply looking for a change, this article will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to navigate the process of finding a roommate in NYC.
So, get ready to embark on a new chapter of your life with the perfect roommate by your side!
Finding Roommates in NYC: Everything You Need to Know
The city is full of vibrant neighborhoods and diverse individuals, and by finding the perfect roommate, you’ll not only have someone to split the rent with, but you’ll also gain a new friend and potentially create unforgettable memories. Here’s how you can find a good roommate and some tips and tricks:
1. Find a good roommate in NYC online
There are a ton of roommate finder websites and apps, but are all of them trustworthy enough? To tell you one, try Roomi, the ultimate roommate and apartment finder app. The tool matches you with the perfect roommate according to your lifestyle preferences, with filters to narrow down your search.
Source: Roomi
Roomi also conducts background checks and ID verification to avoid fraud and scams. Plus, in-app messaging to ensure that the conversations you’re having are safe and secure.
2. Look for roommates through Facebook or Craigslist
Before roommate finder apps and websites existed, Facebook, Craigslist, and even Reddit were the go-to platforms. It’s a bit old school as numerous people just post statuses that say: ‘looking for roommates!’ and hope that someone they’ll eventually get along with answers.
Nonetheless, it’s still effective, but you have to take precautions as there are a lot of scammers and fake profiles that can trick you if you’re not careful. To avoid this, be specific with your listing, and once you’re talking to a potential roomie, call them through video call (to ensure they’re actually the one in the profile!).
Related: Rules To Set In Apartments For Rent With Roommates
3. Stick poster ads on bulletins or give out roommate flyers
Source: Unsplash
Roommate flyers may seem old-fashioned, but it’s never out of style. Sticking roommate flyers or posters on public bulletin boards, residence halls, lamp posts, walls, etc., is still as effective as posting a listing online. Just make sure that you have permission to stick your flyer in different places.
Roomi Tip: Be specific about the roommate that you’re looking for in your flyer. List down the specific qualities you’re looking for and the dealbreakers. This way, people will know if they fit the criteria or not.
4. Ask friends and family
A roommate doesn’t necessarily need to be a stranger. You can ask family members and close friends if you have any around the area to be your roommate. Having a roommate who you already know and trust makes the prospect of living together more enjoyable.
However, some also advise against living with a close friend or relative as arguments or misunderstandings may happen. There may be disagreements that can become too personal and lead to a broken relationship. Still, all these can be avoided with proper communication.
If not friends and family themselves, maybe they know someone who’s also looking for a roommate and they can refer you. New York’s a big city with over 19 million people living in the city, it’s impossible that you wouldn’t be able to find a roommate!
Related: The Quest To Finding Your Perfect Soul-Roommate
5. Go to Mixers and Meetups and network with potential roommates
Mixers and meetups in New York are common: it happens almost every week with different groups all around the city. Specifically, there are meetup events and roommate mixers hosted by local community organizations, apartment complexes, or social networking groups that you can attend.
This way, you get to meet your potential roommates in person, talk to them, get a feel of their vibe, and see if you’ll get along well. More than that, these events are a sure way of avoiding scammers and fake online profiles.
How Hard Is It to Find a Roommate in NYC? Well…
Finding a roommate in NYC may seem like a daunting task, but it’s definitely achievable. With a positive attitude, thorough research, and a bit of patience, you can find the perfect roommate to share your NYC adventure with.
Attend local events, utilize online platforms, and network with friends and colleagues to increase your chances of finding a compatible roommate. To make roommate finding easier for you, use Roomi. It’s the best app to find apartments and roommates without having to worry about your security and privacy being breached. All you have to do is sign up, create a listing, update your target date, budget, and preferred neighborhoods, and you’re all set up.
Related: The Quest To Finding Your Perfect Soul-Roommate
Source: Roomi
Roomi ensures the safety of its users by conducting background checks and ID verification for all its users. Plus, the app also uses GlobalID, a digital identity platform that protects your identity and data without sharing your personal information. The in-app messaging feature is also an additional safety measure to ensure that all communication between users is safe and secure.
Don’t give up, and soon you will share your dream apartment in the city that never sleeps.
