Thinking of moving into shared housing while studying in Liverpool? Good choice. For many students, sharing a flat or house is the perfect mix of affordability, convenience, and social life. Whether you're in your first year or just tired of solo living, a shared setup can help you save money and meet new people, sometimes friends for life. 

But before you sign on the dotted line, it's worth understanding what shared housing really involves. From choosing the right housemates to splitting bills and keeping the peace, this guide covers all the key things you need to know. 

What exactly is shared student housing? 

Shared housing is typically a flat or house rented by a group of students who each get a private room but share common spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and living area. 

• Most shared homes come fully furnished 

• Rent is often lower than studios or one-bed apartments 

• Utilities may or may not be included in the rent 

• Tenancy agreements can be joint or individual 

This option is especially popular among second- and third-year students who want a bit more independence than university halls. 

Why do students choose shared accommodation in Liverpool? 

Liverpool is a popular student city, and shared housing offers a cost-effective, social lifestyle for those studying at its universities. 

• Lower cost: Rent is usually cheaper when you split with flatmates 

• Great locations: You’ll find shared homes near campus and city hotspots like Smithdown Road or Wavertree 

• Lively atmosphere: It’s perfect if you enjoy house dinners, movie nights, or spontaneous pub trips 

• Less isolation: Sharing a home reduces loneliness, especially in your early years abroad 

If you're living in student accommodation Liverpool, shared houses can offer the best balance between privacy and connection. 

How to pick the right housemates 

The people you live with can make or break your student experience. Picking the right group matters more than you think. 

• Choose people with similar lifestyles or study habits 

• Be honest about routines, night owls and early risers don’t always mix 

• Avoid signing a contract with strangers unless you're 100% comfortable 

• Talk about expectations upfront: cleaning, guests, noise, bills 

Tip: It’s not about choosing your best friends, it’s about choosing people you can live peacefully with. 

What should you check before moving in? 

Before you commit to a shared property, do your homework. You’re not just renting a room, you're investing in your everyday comfort and safety. 

• Visit the property if you can or ask for a virtual tour 

• Check that the locks, heaters, and windows work properly 

• Ask if the house has a valid HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) license 

• Look into what’s included: are bills, Wi-Fi, and maintenance covered? 

• Confirm how deposits are handled and where they’ll be held (should be in a government-backed scheme) 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good landlord or agency won’t mind at all. 

What’s the best way to split rent and bills fairly? 

Money talks, and when you’re living together, it should be clear and upfront from the start. 

• Use apps like Splitwise or Monzo to track shared expenses 

• Decide who’s paying which bill: gas, electricity, water, broadband 

• Rotate tasks like submitting meter readings and paying bills 

• Set reminders so no one forgets payment dates 

• Keep everything transparent with a shared expense spreadsheet 

Sorting this early helps avoid awkward conversations later. 

How to make shared living actually work 

Living with others can be fun, but it also comes with responsibilities. A bit of effort from everyone goes a long way. 

• Set up a cleaning rota and stick to it 

• Respect shared spaces and personal boundaries 

• Communicate openly if problems come up 

• Host the occasional house meal or night in to build rapport 

• Handle conflicts maturely, no silent treatment or group chats behind someone’s back 

Basically, don’t be that housemate. Everyone’s juggling uni life, so kindness and cooperation go a long way. 

Final thoughts 

Shared housing is a big part of the student journey, especially in a buzzing city like Liverpool. If done right, it offers affordability, friendship, and a more independent lifestyle compared to first-year halls. Take your time to find the right place, the right people, and set clear expectations from day one. 

With a bit of planning and teamwork, your shared home won’t just be a place to sleep, it’ll be where you laugh till 2 AM, cook questionable dinners, and make some of your best student memories.