You’re in your late twenties to mid forties, with a decent paying job. You’re single and are having the time of your life. And! You have a roommate(s) over 40! It’s common to hear friends and family scoff “aren’t you a little old to have a roommate!?”. But you’re not. An expectation for the steps in life are as follows: College, Career, Marriage, Family. When in reality, it’s in between those huge milestones where life actually happens, especially after 40.

College years, even for a fourth time senior is relatively acceptable age and phase in life to have roommates. Similarly, people are usually always expecting you not to live alone. Specifically, thirty and forty year old professionals have it pretty bad. Being a bachelor or bachelorette doesn’t help either. But that doesn’t mean you’re too old to have a roommate. Moreover, if people aren’t wondering why you’re not married they are assuming you party nonstop with your roommates. Either way it doesn’t matter.

Related: It’s Science: Why Having a Roommate Makes You Happier

Having a roommate after 40 in the most expensive city

First, if you’ve moved to NYC, you are clearly comfortable coloring outside of the lines and can live by your own standards, regardless of your age. Let’s face it, New Yorkers don’t take smack from anyone. So, while the thick skin develops, trust your decisions. On the whole, there is nothing wrong with having a roommate at any age.

What is admirable about living alone?  If you must defend your independence, point out all your other life decisions. Whether they were made according to societies box or not, they were yours.

Related: Living With A Roommate vs. Living Alone

You make your choices!

There is nothing admirable about living alone. In fact, living with a roommate after 40 is more than acceptable, even recommended.

If you’ve recently made a big life shift– a break up, graduation, new job, or felt it was time to move to the city, you can expect million others in a similar position. Hence, having a roommate over 40 doesn’t require a transitional period or the relieve a financial burden, simply wanting one is good enough reason to do so.

Related: What Happens When You Share An Apartment With Too Many Roommates?

Moreover, having roommates while older proves your financial responsibility, openness for non romantic companions, and adds onto your confidence to break society’s illogical norms.

D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers they’re not too old to have a roommate over 40? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever!