Coliving in Madrid: What it is and why more students are choosing it
If you've started looking for accommodation to study in Spain's capital, you've probably come across the term coliving in Madrid. This accommodation model combines private living spaces, shared facilities, and services designed to make life easier for people moving to a new city.
For university students and Erasmus participants, coliving can be an interesting alternative to traditional renting, especially when they're looking for furnished accommodation, flexibility, and the opportunity to live with other young people.
In this article, we explain what coliving is, how it differs from a traditional shared flat or university residence, and what you should consider when looking for student accommodation in Madrid.
Table of Contents
- What is coliving?
- Coliving vs. shared flats vs. university residences
- How coliving works in Madrid
- What's included in student coliving?
- Best areas in Madrid for student coliving
- Frequently asked questions about coliving in Madrid
What Is Coliving?
Coliving is an accommodation model that combines private living spaces with shared areas and, typically, services included in the monthly rent. Its aim is to provide a more convenient and flexible living experience than traditional renting.
In a coliving property, you can have your own private bedroom while sharing spaces such as the kitchen or living room with other residents. Depending on the accommodation, you may also find private apartments, maintenance services, cleaning of communal areas, and support throughout your stay.
The main difference is that you don't have to organise every aspect of renting on your own. This can be particularly useful when you're moving to Madrid to study and don't yet know the city.
Coliving also makes it easier to meet people in similar circumstances, which can help you settle in during your first few weeks.
Coliving vs. Traditional Shared Flats vs. University Residences
Before choosing your accommodation, it's worth understanding the differences between the three most common options for students.
Traditional Shared Flats
In a traditional shared flat, several students rent a property together and split household expenses and responsibilities.
Tenants usually arrange utilities, internet, cleaning, and other household matters themselves, although the exact conditions depend on the rental agreement.
This can be an affordable option, particularly if you find flatmates to share costs with. However, it requires more organisation and may be challenging when you've just arrived in Madrid.
University Residences
University residences provide accommodation specifically designed for students. Depending on the residence, facilities may include dining halls, study rooms, activities, reception services, and other amenities.
Their main advantage is that they offer a university-focused environment and make it easy to meet other students.
However, some residences have specific schedules, house rules, or accommodation conditions that may limit your independence.
Coliving
Coliving aims to combine the independence of having your own private bedroom with the convenience of managed services.
Compared with a traditional shared flat, it can simplify household responsibilities and administrative tasks. Compared with a university residence, it often provides a living experience closer to sharing a regular apartment.
However, not every property marketed as coliving includes the same services. It's important to check exactly what's included before booking.
How Coliving Works in Madrid
Every academic year, Madrid welcomes students from other Spanish cities and countries around the world. For those arriving for the first time, finding somewhere to live can be one of the most challenging parts of moving.
Accommodation models with services included can make the process easier. Instead of looking for an unfurnished apartment, arranging utilities, and organising everything from scratch, you can choose a furnished room with certain services managed by the accommodation provider.
At Vanguard Student Housing, you can find shared flats for students in Madrid, offering private bedrooms and services such as Wi-Fi, utilities, cleaning, maintenance, and emergency assistance.
If you'd rather live alone, you can also explore their private student apartments in Madrid, an alternative for students who want greater independence.
Availability and rental conditions depend on each property, so it's worth checking the details before booking.
What's Included in Student Coliving?
One of the main attractions of coliving is the possibility of having several services included in a single monthly payment.
Although facilities and services vary between providers and properties, common features include:
- Utilities included: electricity, water, and gas, depending on the accommodation's conditions.
- Wi-Fi connection: for studying, attending online classes, and using your devices.
- Shared flat cleaning: professional cleaning services that help maintain communal spaces.
- Maintenance: assistance with repairs and issues that arise in the property.
- Emergency assistance: support for urgent accommodation-related situations.
- Administrative support: guidance to help with certain procedures during your stay.
These services are part of Vanguard Student Housing's accommodation offering, although the exact facilities and conditions should always be checked for each property.
For students, the main advantage is having more time to focus on classes, exams, and university life instead of dealing with the practical responsibilities of renting.
Best Areas in Madrid for Student Coliving
Choosing where to live in Madrid is almost as important as choosing the type of accommodation. The distance to your university, public transport connections, budget, and neighbourhood atmosphere can significantly affect your experience.
Chamberí and Moncloa
These areas are particularly interesting for students attending Complutense University of Madrid, the Polytechnic University of Madrid, and Comillas Pontifical University.
Chamberí combines residential streets, shops, cafés, and convenient public transport connections. Moncloa, meanwhile, is one of the main access points to the Ciudad Universitaria university district.
Vanguard Student Housing offers accommodation at Donoso Cortés 75, in Chamberí, with both private rooms and individual apartments.
Ciudad Universitaria
This area is home to numerous university faculties and can be particularly convenient for students who want to live close to campus.
Living near Ciudad Universitaria can reduce commuting times and provide easy access to libraries, sports facilities, and other university services.
Getafe
If you're studying at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, the area surrounding its Getafe campus can be an especially convenient choice.
Vanguard offers accommodation at Carlos III Campus Getafe, approximately one minute from the university campus, with private bedrooms and individual apartments.
Before making your decision, compare the actual distance between your accommodation and university, available transport connections, and the facilities you need.
If you're moving to Madrid through Erasmus or another international mobility programme, it's also a good idea to start looking for accommodation well in advance, particularly before the beginning of the academic year.
At Vanguard Student Housing, you'll find different accommodation options to suit your stay, from bedrooms in shared flats to private apartments, with services designed to make student life easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coliving in Madrid
What's the Difference Between Coliving and a Regular Shared Flat?
The main difference is how services are managed. Coliving accommodation often includes utilities, cleaning, and maintenance, while tenants in traditional shared flats usually organise some of these services themselves.
Is Coliving More Expensive Than Renting a Shared Flat Independently?
It depends on the property, location, and included services. Monthly rent may be higher than for a basic room in a shared flat, but an accurate comparison should also consider utilities, internet, and other services that would otherwise be paid for separately.
Can I Have a Private Room in a Coliving Property?
Yes. Many coliving properties offer private bedrooms within shared apartments. Private apartments are also available for students who prefer to live independently.
Is Coliving a Good Option for Erasmus Students?
Coliving can be a practical choice because it simplifies moving to an unfamiliar city, particularly when the accommodation comes furnished and includes utilities, internet, and support during your stay.
Sharing accommodation with other students can also make it easier to settle in and build a social life.
Which Areas of Madrid Offer Shared Student Accommodation?
There are options across Madrid and its surrounding metropolitan area. Some of the most interesting locations for students include Chamberí, Moncloa, Ciudad Universitaria, and Getafe, particularly because of their proximity to different university campuses.
The best choice will depend on where you're studying, your budget, and your preferred living arrangements.
