Shared apartments, spare rooms and roommates in Madrid

Rent in Madrid is quite high since it’s the capital of Spain and the prices reflect the high demand for housing. If you want to live in popular neighbourhoods like Moncloa or Malasaña, sharing a flat is a great option to find affordable accommodation. Many students choose to share apartments to save money and enjoy Madrid's extensive leisure activities, making the most of their time in the city!

Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Madrid

Sharing an apartment can be an incredible experience, but it also has its challenges. Here we explain the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

Advantages of sharing a flat in Madrid

• Sharing a flat helps you save on rent and utilities, allowing you to live in popular neighbourhoods like La Latina, Lavapiés, Moncloa, or Malasaña.
• You'll share your space with international students, which will give you the chance to live and learn about different cultures.
• Meet new people right away; your roommates will likely become your first friends in Madrid.
• If you go to Madrid to learn or improve your Spanish, having Spanish roommates can immerse you in the language.

Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Madrid

• You’ll have to share common areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and living room. If having a private bathroom is important to you, look for rooms that include one.
• Apartments can be small, especially if you have multiple roommates.
• Without clear house rules, there's a high chance of disagreements.

Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Madrid

The European Commission has created an app where Erasmus students can access information, opportunities, and guides to make their mobility easier. In this app, you can share experiences and tips, find discounts and services, validate subjects, and even request new mobility options and complete the necessary procedures.

How to meet people in Madrid?

Your roommates will be the first people you will meet in Madrid, but there are plenty of other ways to expand your social circle in this Spanish city. Here are some alternatives:

Student associations in Madrid

Many universities in Madrid are part of ESN Spain, an organisation that supports Erasmus students. For example, you can join the ESN at Complutense University of Madrid, Rey Juan Carlos University, and Autonomous University of Madrid. ESNs organise various activities like sports (soccer, volleyball, basketball, running, etc.), multicultural meals, and fun events. They also collaborate with other ESNs from different universities for activities such as language classes, dance classes, theatre courses, and even escape rooms.

Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Madrid

On Facebook, you'll find groups for Erasmus students by host city or academic year, such as the "Erasmus Madrid". They’re great for connecting with other students before you even arrive. These groups post about upcoming events, activities, parties, trips, discounts, and sports clubs. They also provide answers to common questions about living in Madrid, like handling paperwork or setting up a bank account.

WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Madrid

WhatsApp groups are a popular way to meet people and share information. You can join these groups to connect with other students who have similar interests and make plans together!

Tips for living in a shared apartment in Madrid

Here are some keys tips to sharing a student flat in Madrid to ensure a positive experience:

• Establish and respect house rules. Set clear rules from the start to avoid conflicts, especially about quiet hours, noise levels, visitor policies, and whether parties or smoking are allowed inside.
• Winters in Madrid can be cold, so discuss heating usage with your roommates. Keep in mind that some flats in Madrid have central heating controlled by the owner.
• Determine how to split the bills and remember to pay them on time!

Frequently Asked Questions about sharing a flat in Madrid