Four ways to split rent, and when to use each
- Equally. Simple and best when the bedrooms are about the same.
- By room size. Shared space (kitchen, living room, hallways) is split equally and the rest follows bedroom size. The slider sets how much of the rent counts as shared space; 30 to 50 percent is common.
- Room size + perks. The same, but a private bathroom, balcony, parking spot or walk-in closet makes a room worth more. Each perk adds to that room's weight (private bathroom +15%, the others +5%).
- By income. Each person pays the same share of the rent as their share of the household income. Couples and close friends often prefer this.
Worked example
Rent $3,000, common areas 40%, rooms of 150, 120 and 100 sq ft.
Common part: $1,200 ÷ 3 = $400 each.
Private part: $1,800 split 150 : 120 : 100 → $730, $584, $486.
Totals: $1,130, $984 and $886.
Common part: $1,200 ÷ 3 = $400 each.
Private part: $1,800 split 150 : 120 : 100 → $730, $584, $486.
Totals: $1,130, $984 and $886.
Tips for agreeing a split
- Agree the method before anyone picks a room.
- Measure the rooms rather than guessing; a few square feet matter more than you'd think.
- Split bills like internet and electricity equally unless someone clearly uses more.
- Revisit the split when someone moves in or out.
Questions
What is the fairest way to split rent?
There is no single answer, but splitting shared space equally and private space by room size, with a premium for perks, is the method most roommates find fair.
How much more should the room with a private bathroom pay?
Many households add 10 to 20 percent to that room's weight. This calculator uses 15 percent.
Can couples sharing one room use this?
Yes. Add them as one roommate with the room size, then divide that amount between the two of them. They also count as one person for the common area share unless you add them separately.
Is my information saved?
No. Everything runs in your browser. The share link carries the numbers in the URL so your roommates see the same thing.