How to Find Roommates in Paris: Tips for International Students
As an international student in Paris, having a roommate can be a great way to not feel too alone while settling into life in a new city.
Many students look for roommates to help offset the high cost of living, build connections, and make the transition to Parisian life smoother and more enjoyable.
Whether you’re staying for a semester or you’re on a multi-year program, finding a compatible roommate can enhance your experience, provide mutual support, and even introduce you to new cultures and perspectives.
In this post, we will share some tips on how to find the best roommates in Paris.
TL;DR
Sharing an apartment with a roommate is a popular choice for international students to help manage living costs, and settle in faster, especially in a high-demand city like Paris.
Living with a roommate can make Paris more affordable, provide mutual support, and offer cultural exchange opportunities, enriching your experience as a student.
Use university housing boards, Facebook groups, and trusted roommate-finding platforms like La Carte des Colocs and Appartager to find potential roommates in Paris. Always meet in public places when first connecting with potential roommates, verify identities, and use reputable platforms to avoid scams.
Student Luxe provides access to the most exclusive luxury student accommodation Paris has to offer. These apartments are perfect for international students who want more space, privacy and flexibility. You can also move in with a roommate if you prefer. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.
Benefits of Having a Roommate in Paris
Living with a roommate offers international students in Paris a range of benefits beyond just sharing expenses. Here are some key reasons why having a roommate can enhance your experience in the city:
Cost Savings: Paris is known for its high cost of living, and splitting rent and utility bills with a roommate can make living in luxury apartments in desirable neighborhoods far more affordable.
Mutual Support: Moving to a new city, especially one as bustling as Paris, can be overwhelming. Having a roommate offers built-in support—someone to share everyday challenges with, whether it’s figuring out the metro system, handling language barriers, or navigating local customs.
Cultural Exchange: Living with a roommate from a different background or even a local Parisian provides valuable opportunities for cultural exchange. Roommates can introduce each other to new foods, customs, and perspectives, enriching each person’s experience and broadening their worldview.
Shared Responsibilities: Household tasks like cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping can be easier when shared. Roommates can divide chores and responsibilities, reducing the individual workload and creating a more balanced living environment.
Building Connections and Friendships: Having a roommate is a great way to make connections in a new city. Roommates often become friends, especially when they share common goals and experiences. This friendship can expand your social circle, helping you meet more people and feel more at home in Paris.
Where to Look for Roommates in Paris
There are several reliable channels available for international students to find roommates in Paris. Here’s where to start your search for a compatible roommate:
University Housing Boards and Facebook Groups
Many universities in Paris have dedicated housing boards or student portals where accommodation listings are regularly posted. These boards often include options for roommate matching. Additionally, student-focused Facebook groups are popular for connecting with others seeking shared housing. Search for groups like “International Students in Paris” or “[Your University’s] Housing” to join communities where students frequently post about available rooms or roommate searches.
Roommate-Finding Websites and Apps
There are a number of websites specifically designed to help students and young professionals find roommates in Paris. Popular options include:
La Carte des Colocs: A platform dedicated to finding roommates and co-living arrangements in France, including detailed profiles for easy compatibility checks.
Appartager: One of the most widely used platforms in France for finding shared apartments, offering a range of budget options.
Roomster: An international platform for finding roommates, which allows users to post profiles, search listings, and chat with potential roommates directly.
Specialized Housing Services for International Students: Some services cater specifically to the housing needs of international students in Paris. For example, Student Luxe provides luxury student accommodations for affluent international students in Paris. Students can move into most of these apartments with a roommate.
Networking and Word of Mouth: Sometimes, the best roommate leads come through people you know. Talk to classmates, join student clubs, and attend events where you can connect with other students looking for shared housing. You may even find a roommate through a friend of a friend, which can be a safe and trusted route.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Roommate
Choosing the right roommate can make a big difference in your experience as an international student in Paris. Here are some important factors to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable living situation:
Budget Compatibility: Set a clear budget for rent, utilities, and shared expenses upfront. Paris can be pricey, especially in central areas, so it’s essential that both you and your roommate are comfortable with the financial commitment. Discuss and agree on how shared costs (like internet, utilities, or household supplies) will be split.
Lifestyle and Schedule: Consider lifestyle factors like study habits, social preferences, and sleeping schedules. If you’re an early riser who needs quiet for studying, a roommate with a similar routine will likely suit you better. On the other hand, if you enjoy late nights or social gatherings, finding a roommate with a similar outlook can help avoid conflicts and create a more peaceful environment.
Cleanliness and Shared Responsibilities: Everyone has a different approach to cleanliness and chores. Some students are meticulous, while others may be more relaxed about keeping shared spaces tidy. You should talk about expectations and agree on a basic cleaning routine, especially for shared areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
Cultural Background and Language: Living with someone from a different cultural background can be a fantastic way to experience new perspectives, but it’s important to ensure you have a common understanding or at least some shared language skills. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings when dealing with challenges or setting expectations.
Communication and Conflict Resolution: Roommates naturally have occasional disagreements, so finding someone who is open to communication and problem-solving is key. Ideally, choose a roommate who values clear communication and is willing to address issues directly yet respectfully.
Personal Boundaries and Privacy: Each roommate’s need for personal space and privacy may vary. Discussing these boundaries before moving in can create a respectful and considerate atmosphere, whether it’s hosting guests, sharing food, or respecting each other’s schedules.
FAQs
Is it safe to find a roommate online in Paris?
Yes, it can be safe if you use trusted platforms, meet in public first, verify identities, and take time to vet potential roommates.
What should I ask potential roommates during an interview?
Ask about their budget, daily routine, cleaning habits, social preferences, and any boundaries or expectations they have for shared living.
Wrapping Up
Finding a roommate in Paris can be a rewarding experience that makes living in the city more affordable and improves your journey as an international student. By sharing a space, you gain financial flexibility, support, and the chance to build meaningful connections in a new environment. With a clear understanding of what you’re looking for in a roommate and by using trusted resources, you can find a compatible person to share your Parisian adventure.
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