The concept of ‘home’ is changing. For many young people, international students and digital nomads, shared housing — or co-living — is no longer a fallback option but a lifestyle choice. This collaborative model not only meets the need for flexibility and affordability, but also creates new opportunities in the property market.

What is co-living?

Co-living goes beyond simply sharing a house. It is a housing model designed for coexistence, where common areas such as kitchens, living rooms, workspaces, or even gyms become meeting places, while each resident maintains their privacy in individual rooms or studios.

Why is it growing?

• The popularity of shared housing is due to several reasons:
• Flexibility: ideal for those looking for short-term contracts or temporary solutions.
• Affordability: sharing costs makes it possible to live in central locations at fairer prices.
• Lifestyle: community living appeals to those who value human connections and support networks.
• Sustainability: by optimising space and resources, waste and environmental impact are reduced.

Opportunities for the property market 

The rise of co-living opens up new perspectives for buying and selling property:

• Investors: larger properties, houses or buildings can be transformed into shared housing units, ensuring profitability through multiple rentals.
• Private owners: those who own spacious flats can adapt them to the room rental model, increasing the potential return.
• Sales market: forward-thinking buyers see this type of property as a strategic opportunity, given the increase in demand for flexible solutions.

Portugal as a prime location

Portugal is one of the growing destinations for this type of housing. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto lead the demand, but regions such as the West, close to the sea, with a good quality of life and more affordable prices, are attracting both digital nomads and investors attentive to new trends.

Shared housing is not just a temporary solution: it is a trend that is shaping the market. For investors, it opens the door to new models of profitability. For buyers, it is a way of aligning investment with the needs of younger generations. More than just a roof over your head, co-living is a reflection of how we live today — and a clear opportunity for the future of real estate in Portugal.