Communal living, where individuals live together in shared spaces, is gaining popularity as a solution to the rising cost of living and loneliness. Intentional communities, where five or more unrelated people live together voluntarily, offer a sense of belonging and social connection. Research shows that people living in intentional communities have a quality of life as high as the happiest people in society.
Rosie Kellett, a food writer, lives communally with six others in a converted industrial building in east London. They share household chores, cooking, and expenses, and have regular house meetings to address any issues. Kellett values the sense of community and support, saying it's like having a family.
Creal Zearing, who lives in a co-housing estate in Madison, Wisconsin, with her husband and three-year-old daughter, also appreciates the community aspect. The estate has two apartment blocks and single-family houses, with communal areas and regular social events. Residents contribute four hours of work per week and pay a condo fee to subsidize community spaces.
Penny Clark, an expert on intentional communities, notes that there are various types of communal living setups, including co-housing, housing co-ops, and communes. Co-living, a newer sector, offers self-contained apartments or studios with common areas, but may not be an intentional community.
While communal living has its benefits, it also requires compromises and effort. Clark warns that it can be overwhelming and may not work out for everyone. However, for those who value social connection and a sense of belonging, intentional communities can provide a happy and fulfilling lifestyle.
In today's society, where family members may be spread far and wide, communal living offers a way to create a new kind of family and community. With the housing market under pressure and environmental sustainability a growing concern, communal living may become a more attractive option for many. As Kellett says, "I think it's becoming increasingly difficult to live a good life here... this for me is like we've gotten through the little crack in the system."C
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