Flatsharing has traditionally been dominated by people in their 20s and 30s, but in recent years the proportion of younger renters is declining, while the 45+ age group is increasing.
So, why is this happening, and how is that changing the dynamics of flatsharing as we know it? Here’s a simple breakdown:
Young renters wanting to move from family homes are being delayed
In the past five years, UK rents have risen by a whopping 29%, and now average £749 per month. As a benchmark of affordability, it’s recommended that no more than 30% of gross income is spent on housing costs, with this in mind, the average salary needed for someone to 'affordably' rent a room is close to £30k. As a result, many under-25s just starting out in their careers have no choice but to continue living in their family homes.
People are flatsharing for longer
The proportion of renters aged 45+ is increasing. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including high rent prices and increased cost of living, which makes it more difficult to save for a deposit to buy a home, resulting in people flatsharing for longer.
Over 65s see the biggest increase
As more people approach retirement without enough savings, the proportion of over 65s flatsharing has tripled in the past decade - the biggest increase of all age groups, despite making up the smallest part of the market.
And, as more people approach retirement without enough money saved, the number of over 65s sharing their homes with lodgers is increasing too: there has been a 38% increase over the past two years.
More multi-generational households
A January 2026 survey by SpareRoom revealed that 38% of flatsharers now live in multi-generational households, where the age difference between the oldest and youngest adult is 20 years or more. Close to a quarter of flatsharers have - or are - flatmates with a 30+ year age gap between them.
What does all this mean?
While the ageing flatshare market reflects real financial pressures, it also shows how shared living is evolving. Flatsharing is no longer just a short-term phase before “settling down” - it can be a flexible way of living that suits different ages and life stages. With more multi-generational households, flatsharing can also provide everyday connection at a time when loneliness is on the rise for people of all ages.