House sharing is now considered “embarrassing” by the age of 2 according to new research from Nationwide, despite affordability pressures keeping millions in shared living arrangements.
The data shows that 11% of Brits are still sharing accommodation with parents, friends or strangers beyond this age, as rising living costs continue to reshape housing choices.
With 69% saying living alone is unaffordable, the average age of those in house shares has climbed to 35, highlighting the growing disconnect between housing costs and earnings.
Many are turning to so-called “rally households” to cut costs, with one in 10 moving back home or even living with an ex-partner to save money.
STRESS AND ANXIETY
While these arrangements offer financial relief, they are not without consequences. Nearly half (46%) said shared living had negatively affected their relationships, while 15% reported stress and anxiety and 14% said they felt “stuck”.
In total, around 27 million people said they had felt embarrassed about their living situation, with younger generations particularly affected by social comparison and workplace perceptions.
Richard Stocker (main picture, inset), Head of Savings at Nationwide, says: “Whether it’s saving for a first home, getting on the housing ladder or moving out for the first time it’s important to start with achievable savings goals. Make the most of your ISA allowance, and use a good budgeting app like Nationwide’s Budget Builder, they can do the heavy lifting. With the right tools, getting on top of your money feels far more doable.”
AFFORDABILITY CHALLENGE
Megan Eighteen, President of ARLA Propertymark (Association of Residential Letting Agents), adds: “While the findings highlight that many renters begin to feel they have ‘outgrown’ house sharing by their late twenties, this is far less about social preference and more a reflection of ongoing affordability challenges within the housing market.
“For a growing number of people, particularly in high-demand areas, living in shared accommodation is not a choice but a necessity. Higher rent levels, rising living costs, and the barriers to home ownership mean that many renters are staying in house shares for longer than they might have expected.”
And she adds: “What we are seeing across the sector is a clear shift in the demographic of shared living. It is no longer limited to students or those in their early twenties, professionals in their late twenties, thirties and beyond are now a significant part of this market.
“This change is also influencing expectations. Renters are increasingly looking for well-managed, good quality shared homes that offer a balance of affordability, privacy and convenience.
“Ultimately, this trend underlines the need for a diverse and well-supplied private rented sector that can meet a range of needs. Until there is improved affordability and increased housing supply, shared living will remain a key part of the housing landscape for many people.”
