Home Sharing
8 min read

Complete Guide to Home Sharing Programs in the United States

Finding Your Perfect Home Share Match.
Here are 55 Home Sharing Programs in the US in 2025.
Two women Home sharing in California

Looking for affordable housing in today's market? Home sharing programs might be your answer.

Across the United States, these innovative programs are connecting homeowners who have extra space with people seeking affordable places to live—creating win-win solutions for everyone involved.

Home sharing programs have emerged as a powerful solution to address both skyrocketing housing costs and social isolation. These arrangements, where two or more unrelated individuals share a dwelling for mutual benefit, are transforming how Americans think about housing. Whether you're a senior wanting to age in place, a student drowning in housing costs, or someone craving more community connection, home sharing creates opportunities that traditional housing cannot match.

This comprehensive directory explores the landscape of home sharing initiatives throughout the country, highlighting the significant network of programs primarily driven by non-profit organizations.

Why Choose Home Sharing? The Benefits Beyond Affordable Housing

The prevalence of non-profit entities in this field suggests a strong commitment to social impact, prioritizing affordable housing and support services over profit generation. While many programs adopt a general approach, a common model involves matching older adults with younger individuals, creating intergenerational living arrangements that benefit both parties.

For seniors, home sharing can offer companionship and the ability to age in place within their own homes.

For younger individuals, it provides access to more affordable living situations.

This reciprocal relationship fosters mutually beneficial arrangements that extend beyond mere housing provision.

Additionally, the sector has seen an increasing trend toward programs that target specific populations, demonstrating the adaptability of home sharing to address diverse housing needs. This targeted approach allows for specialized services tailored to the unique challenges faced by different communities.

Let's explore the home sharing landscape across the United States, organized by state.

Home Sharing Programs By State:

18 Home Sharing Programs

California

California leads the nation with the most robust and diverse landscape of home sharing programs and co-housing communities. Many are non-profits focused on specific geographic areas or for certain vulnerable populations.
Home Sweet Homeshare - Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Human Investment Project, (HIP Housing) - San Mateo County
Their Match-up Home sharing Program connects individuals who have spare rooms ("providers") with those seeking affordable accommodation ("seekers"). In some instances, seekers may exchange household chores for reduced rent.
Senior Network Services - Santa Cruz County
Their Match-up Home sharing Program focuses on connecting seniors in need of a housemate with vetted individuals who can provide non-medical housing and companionship
This county-wide initiative matches individuals seeking housing with those who have extra space, primarily targeting seniors but not exclusively. The program employs a thorough screening process, including applications, interviews, home inspections, and background checks.
Elder Help of San Diego - Homeshare Program
This non-profit facilitates connections between seniors with available space and individuals seeking affordable housing, aligning with the broader goal of enabling seniors to age in place with dignity and support.
Smart Share Housing Solutions - San Luis Obispo County
Their HomeShare SLO program helps individuals with more house than they need connect with those seeking affordable housing or companionship in San Luis Obispo.
Senior Advocacy Network - Stanislaus County
This non-profit program serves older adults (60+), connecting them with shared housing opportunities within Stanislaus county.
Northcoast Homeshare - Humboldt and Del Norte Counties
This program of the Area 1 Agency on Aging focuses on helping older adults find someone to share their home, enabling them to continue living in their community.
Homies - Statewide
This for-profit platform focuses on life-sharing for people with disabilities, aiming to foster independence and community engagement by connecting them with supportive roommates.
This non-profit runs a Match-up Homesharing Program focusing on matching homeowners, particularly seniors, with individuals who need affordable housing and can offer companionship and assistance.
SHARE! THE SELF-HELP AND RECOVERY EXCHANGE - Culver City & Los Angeles County
The Collaborative Housing Program in Culver City provides supportive shared housing for individual adults who face mental health issues or other life challenges, offering housing with no direct supervision in communal living environments.
Share Sonoma County - Sonoma County
This registered 501(c)(3) concentrates on locating empty bedrooms to create affordable, immediate, long-term housing for individuals who cannot afford market rental rates.
This non-profit initiative, in partnership with Napa County and the City of Napa, facilitates connections between homeowners with extra space and renters seeking an affordable place to live.
Home Match Program (by Front Porch) - Alameda County, Contra-Costa County, Marin County, and San Francisco County
These programs connect community members seeking housing with older adults who have extra space, aiming to decrease social isolation, enhance housing security, and foster community bonds.
HomeShare American River - Western Placer County
Provides free screening, matchmaking, and support to help people of all ages share a home. While open to all, the program prioritizes matches that include a person aged 60 or older.
Home Share OC - Orange County
Run by the non-profit Homeless Intervention Services of Orange County (HIS-OC), this initiative specifically targets college students in need of affordable housing and homeowners aged 55 and over with a spare room to rent.
Home & Heart - Butte County
‍Focuses on matching adults who have a room to share with individuals in need of affordable housing, with a prioritization of services for older adults.
3 Home Sharing Programs

Colorado

From Denver to Fort Collins there are 3 home sharing programs to choose from near you.
Home Sweet Homeshare - Denver & Boulder Metro Areas
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Sunshine Home Share Colorado - Broomfield County
This non-profit organization focuses on ensuring quality of life for older adults and strengthening communities through a safe home-sharing model.
Neighbor 2 Neighbor - Larimer County
This non-profit includes a HomeShare program as part of its broader mission to provide sustainable housing and supportive services.
1 Home Sharing Program

Washington D.C.

In the Nations Capital, Home Sweet Homeshare is the program of choice for those that want to home share.
Home Sweet Homeshare - Washington DC Metro Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
3 Home Sharing Programs

Florida

In the Sunshine State, there are 3 home sharing programs to choose from near you.
Home Sweet Homeshare - Miami, Tampa, and Naples Metro Areas
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Hearts and Homesharing - Osceola County
This program of the non-profit Osceola Agency on Aging provides shared housing options for a broad demographic, including seniors, people with disabilities, working professionals, students, and low-income individuals.
Home Share Pinellas - Pinellas County
This non-profit organization matches individuals seeking affordable housing with homeowners who have space to rent.
2 Home Sharing Programs

Hawaii

In the Sunshine State, there are 3 home sharing programs to choose from near you.
Home Sweet Homeshare - O'ahu and Maui
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
This non-profit project of the Hawaii Intergenerational Network serves the general population by matching individuals seeking a home with those who have a home to share.
3 Home Sharing Programs

Illinois

In The Chicago area, there are 3 home sharing options.
Home Sweet Homeshare -West Loop Chicago
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
This non-profit runs a Homesharing program designed to meet the unique needs of LGBT older adults, facilitating intergenerational matches.
The Center of Concern - Suburban Cook County
This non-profit connects seniors and responsible adults with spare rooms to individuals seeking affordable housing options.
2 Home Sharing Programs

Louisiana

The Big Easy has 1 shared housing program
Focuses on shared housing within the city, catering to various demographics including people with disabilities and low-income residents.
1 Home Sharing Program

Maine

A statewide home sharing program
Nesterly - Statewide
This for-profit venture uses government funds to match housemates into shared housing arrangements.
2 Home Sharing Programs

Maryland

From DC to Baltimore there are 2 co-housing options in Maryland
Home Sweet Homeshare - D.C. Metro Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Housing Initiative Partnership - Montgomery County
This non-profit organization runs the Montgomery County Home Sharing Program, connecting senior homeowners with spare rooms or Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to renters of all ages seeking affordable housing.
2 Home Sharing Programs

Massachusetts

In the Bay State, there are 2 home sharing programs to choose from near you.
Home Sweet Homeshare - Boston Metro area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Nesterly - Boston
This for-profit uses government fund to match housemates into shared housing ventures.
4 Home Sharing Programs

New Jersey

4 shared housing organizations are in New Jersey trying to alleviate the housing affordability crisis.
Home Sweet Homeshare - New York Metro Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
This non-profit provides a no-fee service matching homeowners with individuals seeking housing, with a careful screening process.
Homesharing, Inc - Statewide
This 501(c)(3) non-profit agency matches individuals seeking affordable housing with those who have extra space and may need additional income or services to maintain their homes.
This non-profit runs the SCUCS Shared Housing Program, which matches older adults (45+, priority 60+) looking for affordable housing with homeowners.
3 Home Sharing Programs

New York

The Big Apple has 3 home sharing organizations to choose from.
Home Sweet Homeshare - New York Metro Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Their Homesharing Program requires at least one individual in each match to be 60 years of age or older and also serves persons living with developmental disabilities.
This non-profit initiative connects homeowners with individuals seeking affordable housing, potentially involving rent reduction in exchange for services or companionship, with a focus on local employees, volunteers, and seniors within a 10 mile radius of Woodstock NY
1 Home Sharing Program

North Carolina

Durham Congregations administers a homesharing program
This non-profit offers a match-up homesharing program in Durham..
1 Home Sharing Program

Oregon

In Oregon there is only one program doing home sharing.
Home Share Oregon - Statewide
This registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aims to expand access to affordable housing through homesharing and provides additional support services to assist vulnerable populations.
8 Home Sharing Programs

Pennsylvania

There are 7 regional home sharing programs run by the state.
SHARE Shared Housing & Resource Exchange
This affordable housing choice run in 7 counties in Pennslyvania brings together homeowners and home seekers, with one individual in each match required to be over 60 years of age.

This program operates through local Area Agencies on Aging in multiple counties:

- Pike and Wayne Counties
- Monroe County
- Union-Snyder Counties
- Carbon County
- Crawford County
- Adams County
- Bucks County
Home of the Sparrow - Chester County
This non-profit focuses on partnering with women facing homelessness. Their Shared Housing Program matches homeowners with women seeking affordable housing solutions.
1 Home Sharing Programs

Texas

In the Lone Star State, there is only one home sharing organization.
This non-profit organization serves individuals aged 21 and over. They offer both match-up services and shared living residences for homeless single-parent families and older adults.
1 Home Sharing Program

Vermont

In the Green Mountain State, there is one main home sharing organization.
HomeShare Vermont - Northwestern and central Vermont
This registered 501(c)(3) non-profit matches elderly and disabled homeowners with individuals seeking a home sharing arrangement.
5 Home Sharing Programs

Washington

California leads the nation with the most robust and diverse landscape of home sharing programs
Home Sweet Homeshare - Seattle Metro Area
Home Sweet Homeshare stands out with its innovative chore-for-rent exchange model which guarantees $500+ monthly income and 10 hours of weekly support with household chores for homeowners. This arrangement empowers seniors to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life, while saving younger housemates approximately $800/month in rent.
Housing Resources Bainbridge - Bainbridge Island
This non-profit affordable housing provider offers a Match-up Homesharing Program on Bainbridge Island
This 501c3 non-profit is focused on eliminating homelessness in the county by providing safe and affordable permanent supportive housing through shared housing solutions for vulnerable populations.
This non-profit connects home providers and seekers, with the requirement that either the provider or the seeker in each arrangement is a senior.
This non-profit brings together people seeking low-cost housing options with those who have space to share, offering mutual benefits.

Benefits of Intergenerational Housing Programs

Smart Choices: What to Look for in Home Sharing Programs for Seniors

  • Aging in Place: Allows older adults to remain in their homes longer
  • Financial Support: Provides additional income through rent
  • Companionship: Reduces isolation and loneliness
  • Practical Assistance: May include help with household tasks and errands
  • Safety: Having another person in the home enhances security

Finding Affordable Housing: Benefits for Home Seekers

  • Affordable Housing: Often below-market rental rates
  • Better Locations: Access to neighborhoods that might otherwise be unaffordable
  • Reduced Isolation: Living with others rather than alone
  • Intergenerational Learning: When matched with someone from a different age group
  • Furnished Options: Many shared homes come partially or fully furnished

How Communities Benefit from Elderly Home Sharing Options

  • Maximizes Housing Stock: Utilizes existing housing more efficiently
  • Reduces Homelessness: Provides affordable housing options
  • Supports Aging in Community: Helps seniors remain in their neighborhoods
  • Builds Social Connections: Creates new community bonds
  • Environmental Benefits: Sharing resources reduces overall consumption

How Do Shared Housing Programs Work? A Step-by-Step Guide

Most home sharing programs follow a similar process:

  1. Application: Both home providers and home seekers complete applications
  2. Screening: Programs conduct background checks, reference checks, and interviews
  3. Matching: Staff identify potential matches based on compatibility factors
  4. Introduction: Parties meet and discuss potential arrangements
  5. Trial Period: Many programs recommend a trial period before making a long-term commitment
  6. Agreement: A written agreement outlines terms, responsibilities, and expectations
  7. Ongoing Support: Many programs offer continued mediation and support services

Conclusion: Finding Your Home Sharing Solution

As we've journeyed across America's home sharing landscape—from California's 17 diverse programs to single initiatives serving entire states—one truth emerges clearly: home sharing is not just about finding a place to live; it's about creating home in its fullest sense.

The programs in this guide represent more than just listings or matching services. They embody a growing recognition that our housing challenges require creative solutions that work with existing resources. In every state where these programs operate, people are discovering that sharing space often means gaining much more than they give up.

For homeowners with extra rooms, these programs offer a pathway to financial stability, companionship, and the ability to age in place with dignity. For those seeking housing, they provide affordability in desirable neighborhoods, built-in community, and opportunities for meaningful connection. What begins as a practical arrangement frequently evolves into something more profound—new friendships, intergenerational learning, and mutual support systems that enhance both lives.

The concentration of programs in high-cost areas like California isn't coincidental—it's evidence that home sharing responds directly to market pressures while offering something the traditional housing market cannot: human connection alongside affordable shelter.

As housing costs continue to climb nationwide, the home sharing model's flexibility and adaptability position it for continued growth. Whether through non-profit organizations, government agencies, or community initiatives, these programs demonstrate that sometimes the most effective solutions aren't about building new structures but about reimagining how we use the ones we already have.

If you're considering home sharing—whether as a homeowner or home seeker—the programs in this directory provide structured support to help navigate what might otherwise feel like a daunting process. Their screening procedures, matching expertise, and ongoing support services transform what could be a risky arrangement into a secure, beneficial partnership.

Home sharing won't solve all of America's housing challenges, but for thousands of individuals across the country, it's already providing an answer. In shared kitchens and living rooms from coast to coast, people are rediscovering an ancient truth: when we open our doors to others, we often find that our homes—and our lives—expand in unexpected and wonderful ways.

What You Need to Know About Housemate Matching Services

FAQs

The most common questions about home sharing.
Can I home share if I rent?
This would require landlord approval and generally makes the agreements more complex. Some home sharing programs specifically work with renters.
How are conflicts resolved?
The best programs offer mediation services and support to help resolve conflicts. Having clear written agreements from the start helps prevent misunderstandings
What about privacy?
Most home sharing arrangements provide private bedrooms with shared common areas. Clear boundaries and house rules established at the beginning help ensure everyone's comfort.
Is home sharing legal?
Most localities allow unrelated individuals to share a home. However, some municipalities may have restrictions on the number of unrelated people who can live together, and some homeowners associations (HOAs) may have their own rules. Programs typically help navigate these regulations
How is rent determined?
Rent varies widely depending on location, amenities, and whether services are exchanged for reduced rent. Most programs help negotiate fair arrangements based on market conditions and the specific situation. The minimum on the Home Sweet Homeshare program is $800 per month - but Home Sweet Homeshare only operates in locations where rent is typically $1,600+ for a 1 bedroom plus utilities.