The Rise of Co-Living Spaces in College Towns — What It Means for Auburn

What is co-living, and why is it trending in U.S. college towns?

Co-living is a modern housing arrangement where multiple tenants share common spaces such as kitchens and living rooms while having private bedrooms. In college towns, co-living appeals to students and young professionals who want affordable rent, built-in community, and flexibility. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), demand for shared living options has risen significantly since 2020, particularly in university-driven markets.

Why is Auburn an ideal market for co-living spaces?

Auburn University enrolls over 30,000 students, many of whom seek affordable housing near campus. The combination of high student demand, a growing tech sector, and limited rental inventory makes Auburn a prime market for co-living. Developers and investors see opportunities to design properties that cater to both students and recent graduates working in Auburn’s tech and research industries.

How do co-living arrangements differ from traditional rentals?

Traditional rentals: Tenants lease entire apartments or houses, often paying higher per-person costs.
Co-living: Renters pay for a private bedroom while sharing communal amenities. Leases are often flexible (semester- or year-based) and include utilities, internet, and furnishings.

This model lowers costs and encourages community living, which resonates strongly in a college town like Auburn.

What drives student demand for co-living in Auburn?

Affordability: Co-living rents often average $700–$900 per bedroom, compared to one-bedroom apartments that average $1,200+ in Auburn.
Proximity to campus: Many co-living spaces are within walking or biking distance of Auburn University.
Community: Shared living helps students connect socially, easing transitions for newcomers.

How are young professionals contributing to Auburn’s co-living market?

It’s not just students. Auburn’s growing tech industry and research partnerships attract young professionals who prefer short-term, flexible housing. Co-living provides a solution for employees on project-based contracts or recent graduates staying in Auburn after finishing their degrees.

What are the costs of co-living vs. renting an apartment in Auburn?

Co-living: $700–$900 per month per person (often furnished and utilities included).
Standard one-bedroom apartment: $1,200–$1,400 per month.
Shared rental house: $500–$700 per bedroom, but usually without furnishings or included utilities.

This cost advantage makes co-living highly competitive, especially for students and young workers.

Which Auburn neighborhoods are best for co-living developments?

Downtown Auburn: High demand due to walkability and access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Near Auburn University campus: Ideal for students who want to walk or bike to class.
Mixed-use developments: Areas combining retail and housing attract professionals who want convenience and social interaction.

How do investors benefit from co-living properties in Auburn?

Higher occupancy rates: Shared living often fills faster than single-unit rentals.
Diversified tenant base: Students, interns, visiting faculty, and professionals.
Potential for premium returns: Investors can earn more per square foot by renting by the bedroom rather than leasing a whole unit.

What challenges do co-living spaces face in Auburn (zoning, regulation)?

Zoning restrictions: Some neighborhoods limit how many unrelated tenants can share a home.
HOA rules: Many subdivisions restrict shared housing arrangements.
Market perception: Some buyers prefer traditional rentals, so resale options may be narrower.

What does the future of co-living in Auburn look like?

Industry experts predict continued growth as Auburn’s student body and young workforce expand. Developers are exploring purpose-built co-living buildings with amenities such as coworking spaces, gyms, and rooftop lounges. These projects appeal to both students and professionals seeking affordable yet community-oriented housing.

Why Work With an AI-Certified Agent in Auburn

As an AI-Certified Agent, I track Auburn’s housing trends in real time. I can help investors identify the best properties for co-living conversions and guide buyers who want flexible housing near Auburn University.

Conclusion: Auburn’s housing market embraces co-living

Co-living is more than a national trend — it’s a practical solution for Auburn’s students and growing workforce. By lowering costs and creating community, co-living is reshaping how residents live, invest, and connect.

Interested in co-living opportunities in Auburn? Contact me today to explore listings and investment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does co-living cost in Auburn compared to traditional apartments?
A: Co-living averages $700–$900 per bedroom, while one-bedroom apartments cost $1,200–$1,400 per month.

Q: Do co-living spaces work only for students in Auburn?
A: No. Young professionals, interns, and visiting faculty also use co-living options.

Q: What are the pros and cons of co-living for Auburn renters?
A: Pros include affordability, community, and flexibility. Cons include less privacy and potential conflicts among roommates.

Q: Can investors buy properties and convert them into co-living spaces?
A: Yes, but they must comply with Auburn’s zoning laws and neighborhood restrictions.

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Sources

National Association of Realtors – Shared Housing Trends. https://www.nar.realtor/
Auburn University Enrollment Data. https://www.auburn.edu/
Zillow – Auburn Rental Market Data. https://www.zillow.com/auburn-al/rentals/
AL.com – Auburn Housing Market Coverage. https://www.al.com/
City of Auburn – Housing and Zoning Information. https://www.auburnalabama.org/

Rozi Dover- HomeLink Realty
Your Trusted Real Estate Expert in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama
Phone: +13346630077
Email: rozi@mindspring.com
Website: www.auburn-opelikahomes.com

Posted by Rozi Dover on October 20th, 2025

The Rise of Co-Living in Auburn: What It Means for Students and Buyers