Co Living Vs. Coworking Spaces: Even though co living might seem like a new concept, coworking has been doing rounds, and more and more people are finding reasons to share their working space. In today’s world, many people live with strangers to maintain a higher living standard and save some money at the same time. Many would not be able to afford the kind of lifestyle they lead on their own, so they have to co-live with strangers.
If you’re struggling to find the differences between Co Living Vs. Coworking Spaces, this article is for you.
Co living involves living in dorm-like buildings with a private bedroom while other rooms are shared. These may include kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms. In a co living setup, WiFi, utilities, and other amenities are included, such as catered parties and house cleaning services.
Coworking is simply sharing your workspace, just like sharing your living space. Co working spaces save on utilities such as WiFi, electricity and even an ideal working environment. This article looks at the difference between co living vs co working spaces.
Co Living Vs. Coworking Spaces: Difference between coworking and co-living
Though “co living vs. coworking spaces” (both terms) seem similar, several differences set them apart. These include:
1. Shared Spaces
Co working spaces will have similar equipment to what you would find in a small office. They will also have optional equipment that may not be of use to everyone in the space.
These spaces will also feature communal areas where you can hold meetings and chat with other coworkers.
2. Shared Amenities
Co living spaces are more like dorms, where you live with strangers or people you are not related to. A co-living setup can include some shared amenities such as a shared kitchen, lounge areas and WiFi. Still, these are primarily optional for co-living participants to buy or not, depending on their budget.
3. Privacy
Coworking spaces emphasize ensuring everyone in the room gets along well and works towards achieving common goals. In contrast, co living areas give each occupant a private room with all necessary amenities, such as bathrooms, kitchen appliances, etc., to be shared.
4. Cleanliness
Cleanliness is another important aspect of both coworking space and co living. Coworkers who share an office space will most likely maintain it since they also use it.
On the other hand, co-living involves strangers from all over the world who may or may not always keep it clean, especially where room services are available.
5. Pricing
Both coworking and co living take their toll on your pocket. Even though coworking is affordable for most people compared to co-living, it’s slightly more expensive than a co living. The price is worth it since it gives you your privacy and a conducive environment to work in.
6. Interactive
Co living is suitable for people who are not comfortable going out alone. These individuals cannot deal with solitude, while co-working spaces can easily allow you to interact with other workers and even high-level executives.
When should you choose co living vs. co-working space?
Usually, people will look for coworking space when they plan to spend longer at a given place. That is if they wish to stay at a place for over three months after they travel. When staying at a place for half a year or one year, you want to integrate with the community and know them better. Coworking spaces seem to be the best solution to know people, especially if this is a new area you traveled to.
It works perfectly for the digital nomads. These are people who work from remote areas while they travel. The best way for them to discover new places and learn all about their ways and culture is by co working and co living with people living in that area.
The other reason you would want to cowork and colive with other people is when you have traveled to a city where there are no remote places or something like a Digital Nomad community. In such areas, booking a workplace and accommodation is relatively easy.
If you do not have the time to look for a living space around your workplace, you can always practice coworking and co-living with other people. That way, you will save a lot while learning a few more things about different aspects of life.
Co Living Vs. Coworking Spaces: How do you find the perfect coliving space?
There are a few ways you can choose a suitable co living space. You can look for one first and then look for a workplace. That way, you will not feel so lost or lonely while looking or working at a workplace in a new city. Ensure that the accommodation is just a few minutes from your office or you will be spending a lot of time commuting.
Find accommodation first, then look for someone to share. The good thing about this is that you can constantly adjust if you do not like it anymore and get another place if things do not turn out well with the other people living there.
Here are some tips on how to make sure your co living space is stress-free and fun:
Have a plan B
You might have heard of people moving to another country and then being stuck in the airport with no place to sleep, no money, or anything left. To avoid this situation and have a great time in your new country, you should always have plan B. For example, you could stay at a hostel for the first week until you find an apartment or find your way around the city.
Also, make sure you put enough time into planning everything so you will not be late or in a hurry when searching for an apartment close to work or anywhere else critical. When looking for an apartment, keep in mind that there might also be other costs than just rent that you need to pay for, such as electricity, Internet, water bills, keys deposit, furniture rental, and sometimes even cleaning fees. Ensure all this will fit into your budget before signing any contract.
Know the rules before arriving
Ensure that you know what kind of visa is required from your country, as it may not always be possible to travel with a tourist visa. Also, ascertain what kind of work contract or permit is usually required in your industry. That way, your stay in the new place or country you have just moved to will be straightforward.
Take Away
Some people try both co living vs. coworking spaces as it saves on extra expenses that may be tough for an individual. However, if you love your privacy, you can practice co working and go home to your apartment.
