Featured Share Houses: Private Room or Dormitory?
Share houses have gained popularity recently for their convenient locations and lower rent compared to standard apartments. A key feature is the opportunity to socialize with other residents in shared spaces like the living room.
While many share houses offer private rooms, some provide dormitory-style shared rooms. Dormitories are often chosen because they are more affordable than private rooms.
So, when it comes to living in a share house, which do people prefer: private rooms or dormitories? We conducted a survey to find out, along with the reasons why.
Survey Results
【Number of Responses】
Private Room: 94
Dormitory: 6
Privacy is a Priority! The Overwhelming Preference for Private Rooms
94% of respondents chose private rooms, making it the clear favorite!
- "Since a share house already has so many shared spaces, I feel like I'd lose all my privacy if I had to share my bedroom too. It’s fine for a vacation, but in daily life, you need a place to be alone." (30s/Female/Office Worker)
- "I think I would feel stressed if I didn't have a private space to retreat to." (20s/Female/Part-time Worker)
- "Even in a share house, privacy is important, so I prefer having a private room." (30s/Male/Self-employed)
- "I absolutely need time to be alone during the day, so I can't imagine living in a shared room." (20s/Male/Student)
Even if you enjoy spending time with your housemates, it seems that quiet, solitary time is essential. Living with others often requires constant social awareness and consideration. If you don't get along with someone, you might just want to cut the conversation short and head back to your own room.
Small stresses can build up into major conflicts, so having a private space to relax and recharge is vital.
Dormitory Fans are Few: For Those Who Dream of Shared Living
On the other hand, only 6% of respondents preferred dormitories.
- "I've only ever seen it in manga and stories, so I find it appealing. I’m sensitive to noise, so I’m a bit worried about how well I’d handle someone else’s living sounds." (20s/Female/Student)
- "Since I'm moving into a share house, I want the full experience of a shared room. Unless we really don't get along, I’d like to try to be friends. If I really need to be alone, I can just go to a hotel or an internet cafe." (20s/Male/Self-employed)
- "I feel like living in a dormitory is the true essence of a share house." (30s/Male/Office Worker)
Some people are drawn to the idea of shared rooms from watching dramas, imagining a scenario where housemates solve problems together and grow closer. Even so, there is still some underlying concern about whether they can live together without conflict.
Others seem to view the share house experience as one that should be enjoyed to the fullest through communal living. It seems there is a strong sense of curiosity about the modern share house lifestyle.
Finding the Right Balance for Your Lifestyle
This survey shows that the vast majority prefer private rooms. Even if you enjoy chatting with housemates in the living room, it’s hard to avoid stress entirely. To maintain a healthy balance, having a private, stress-free room to spend time alone is clearly important.
At the same time, there are those who feel a sense of excitement or curiosity about dormitories, showing that everyone has a different vision for their share house life.
Regardless of your choice, the key to a great share house experience is finding a balance that allows you to enjoy both your social life and your personal space.
Share houses with private rooms