Moving to a new city can be a challenging experience, but finding a suitable flatmate to share your living space can add to that stress. The good news is that with a quarter of Seattle's population being in their 20s to 39s, according to U.S. Census data, finding a flatmate in the city is a possibility. Sharing a two-bedroom flat can save you money, as the average rent for a two-bedroom flat is $1,900 and for a one-bedroom it's $1,500. Additionally, splitting the cost of cable, internet, and utility bills can help you save money in the long run. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect flatmate in Seattle.

Utilize Your Personal Network: Before you turn to social media, reach out to your close friends and family to see if they know of anyone looking for a flatmate in Seattle. If you already have a job lined up, ask your HR director if they know of anyone who's searching for a flatmate. However, be cautious of living with a co-worker, as it can lead to a stressful work and living situation. Your home should be your refuge, so try to keep it that way.

Interview Potential Flatmates: While your friends and family may connect you with potential flatmates, it's important to interview each person to make sure they align with your living situation priorities. Take the time to meet with each person multiple times to get a better understanding of their personality and habits. Make sure you both align on your living situation priorities, such as cleanliness and standards for the flat, to ensure a good fit. Then, you can decide which neighborhood is best for both of you.

Use Online Resources: If you've exhausted your personal network, you can use online resources to find flatmates. iROOMit is a highly rated flatmate finder in large cities, and their basic service is free. iROOMit has been referred to as "AirBNB & Tinder for Flatmates" because it's easy to use and completely free. Seattle Housing Subreddit and Craigslist Seattle are also decent options to consider, but be wary of scammers. If you're willing to make your flatmate search public, you can post on social media or use the apps mentioned above to simplify the process.

Consider Your Living Preferences: When looking for a flatmate, it's important to consider your living preferences. Do you prefer a quiet living environment, or are you okay with a bit of noise? Do you have specific standards for cleanliness and organization? Make sure to communicate your preferences with potential flatmates to ensure a harmonious living situation.

In conclusion, finding a flatmate in Seattle can be a straightforward process if you utilize your personal network, interview potential flatmates, and use online resources. Take your time, do your due diligence, and consider your living preferences to find the perfect flatmate. For more tips and information, read our comprehensive Moving Checklist.