When looking for a place in Barcelona, don’t just check out the room and apartment features—find out about your potential roommates too. Make sure you’re fine with their lifestyle to avoid surprises like constant parties, indoor smoking, or clashing lifestyles.
Luckily, most shared flats in Barcelona are spacious, so you won’t feel cramped even when hanging out in the living room or kitchen with your roommates. Having enough space makes it easier to enjoy living together without getting on each other's nerves.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Barcelona
Sharing a flat in Barcelona with other students has its pros and cons. Here are the most notable ones:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Barcelona
- In Barcelona, it’s common to have flatmates from different parts of the world. This gives you a chance to learn about different cultures, lifestyles, and languages.
- You’ll save on rent and utility bills, using that money for Barcelona's leisure offer.
- You’ll be able to learn about coexistence with different people, respecting their spaces and being responsible with cleanliness and order.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Barcelona
- There’s a possibility of discussions or misunderstandings if communication about house rules isn't clear.
- The only space that you'll have entirely to yourself is your room.
- You’ll need to adapt to your roommates’ schedules and noise levels, respecting their rest and routines.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Barcelona
Erasmus+ apps make mobility easier by simplifying procedures and paperwork for Erasmus+ students. You’ll also find information, student experiences, discounts, and other services to make your arrival in Barcelona and your university smoother. Check out the Erasmus Play app, with which you’ll be able to meet other students before even arriving in Barcelona!
How to meet people in Barcelona?
The best way to meet people right away is by sharing a flat since you’ll move into an apartment with other students who already live there. Other options include:
Student associations in Barcelona
Many universities in Barcelona are associated with the ESN (Erasmus Student Network), which supports students and organizes activities, trips, and events. Some of the institutions with ESN associations include the University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Barcelona, and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, among others.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Barcelona
There are specific Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Barcelona for each academic year. These groups let you connect with other students before your arrival, make friends, or find roommates. You can also request recommendations and advice about living in the Catalan capital.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Barcelona
Joining a WhatsApp group with students in Barcelona allows you to ask questions and get information from other young people who live in the city. You can also participate in activities to meet new people and make friends in Barcelona.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Barcelona
Living in a shared apartment can be great if you keep a few things in mind:
- Barcelona's hot, humid summers and chilly winters mean you'll need to use air conditioning, fans, and heating. Make sure to agree with your roommates on how and when to use these to avoid a shockingly high electricity bill.
- Barcelona is known for its cultural activities, parties, and events. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere, living with other students is perfect. However, if you prefer a calmer environment (which doesn’t necessarily mean boring) consider finding roommates who work or juggle both studying and working.
- The biggest source of conflicts in shared apartments is usually cleanliness, so keeping common areas tidy and cleaning up after yourself is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions about sharing a flat in Barcelona
How much does a shared flat cost in Barcelona? |
The price for a room in a shared flat is around €550 per month, but it can vary depending on the room and flat’s features. |
How to find roommates in Barcelona? |
You can get in touch with other Erasmus students through Facebook groups, WhatsApp, or student associations. |
Where to look for shared flats in Barcelona? |
On Erasmus Play, you’ll find both rooms in already rented flats and full apartments with multiple rooms, which allows you to choose your roommates. |
What are the advantages of sharing a flat in Barcelona? |
Sharing a flat helps you save on the cost of rent and bills. Plus, you’ll meet new people right away, share daily life with your flatmates, and make fun plans together. |
What to ask before moving into a shared flat in Barcelona? |
Before moving in, discuss your potential roommates' lifestyle,rules about smoking inside, how house chores are divided, and the policy on visitors.Also, find out if the atmosphere is generally calm or if parties are frequent. |