3 Essential Topics to Discuss When Splitting Costs with a Roommate

Presented by Comcast

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2015, about 25% of Americans between the ages of 18-34 lived with roommates. Some people choose to do so because they like having company around, while others do because of their financial situation. For instance, many young adults live with roommates due to expensive student loan payments and the high cost of rent where they live.  lived with roommates. Some people choose to do so because they like having company around, while others do because of their financial situation. For instance, many young adults live with roommates due to expensive student loan payments and the high cost of rent where they live. 

Whether you’re living with a roommate because you have to or you want to, it’s essential to be on the same page when it comes to household chores and expenses. Along with figuring out who is going to take out the trash and load the dishwasher, it’s critical to establish how you’re going to be taking care of the costs. Talking about these three topics can help set expectations when it comes to splitting costs and both paying your fair share of the bills.

1. Utility usage

Utilities can be expensive, especially when you are running the heat or air conditioner. You and your roommate must cover these costs – plus electricity and water – so have an agreement in place regarding usage. For example, maybe you can agree to put your A/C unit on economy mode and turn it off while you’re both at work. You could also talk about only doing laundry and running the dishwasher once a week.

Whatever you agree to, put it in writing and sign a formal agreement. If you find that the bills are too high, you can refer to your agreement to discuss solutions.  

2. Bring your own furniture

Even if you’re moving in with your best friend, you never know if or when your living circumstances will change. Instead of purchasing furniture together, bring your own. Talk about who is going to supply a couch, a dining room table, and other necessary furniture before you move in. Perhaps you can also talk about how you’re going to design the apartment to ensure your furniture goes well together.

If possible, avoid purchasing anything with your roommate. After all, what happens if one of you stains or damages the furniture? Who should cover the costs? It could also lead to awkward feelings when you both leave the apartment and aren’t sure how to divide your belongings. Keeping the furniture separate can help you avoid these tricky situations.

3. Cover your own Internet

Varying usage amounts and the price of monthly internet service can make it hard to split Internet costs with a roommate. Some pay-as-you-go Internet options let you pay with an hourly, daily, weekly, or 30-day pass with no long-term commitment, so you only purchase what you need. On-demand Internet is a cost-effective option if you don’t go online often (or have a roommate who does).

Whether it’s a choice or a financial necessity, living with a roommate can be challenging. These tips can help make it easier to peacefully coexist and ensure that you’re both covering your share of the bills.

Kylie Ora Lobell is a copywriter, marketer, publicist, and contributor for Xfinity WiFi On Demand. She covers small business, tech, and legal and has been published in New York Magazine, The Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. Find her at KylieOraLobell.com.