Coliving, shared flats, or private apartment in Luxembourg: what works for your first 6 months

Arriving in Luxembourg as a young professional or trainee is an exciting career step, but the housing market often delivers a harsh reality check. Rents are high, competition is fierce and the administrative barriers can feel overwhelming for a newcomer.

Your first six months are critical. You need a base that allows you to register at the commune, access your bank account and focus on your new role without drowning in paperwork. Most new arrivals choose between three main paths: a traditional shared flat, a managed coliving space or a private furnished studio. Here is how they stack up on cost, privacy and ease of access for 2025.

Option 1: The traditional shared flat

Known locally as colocation, this is the classic budget option. You rent a room in a larger house or apartment, sharing the kitchen, bathroom and living space with two to five others. These are often older family homes converted into shares.

Cost realityRents generally range from €850 to €1,150 per month. While the rent is lower, you must watch out for variable charges. Heating and electricity bills can spike in winter and you might need to buy your own furniture if the room is unfurnished.

The admin hurdleThis is often the hardest part, though recent laws have helped. Landlords require a deposit capped at two months' rent (previously three). If you go through an agency, the fees are now legally split 50/50 between you and the landlord. Expect to pay half a month's rent plus VAT (17%) as your share of the fee. You will also need to sign a joint lease or navigate a sublease agreement, which can complicate your mandatory registration ( inscription ) at the commune.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Lowest monthly rent, potential for a "family" vibe with flatmates.
• Cons: Variable utility bills, potential conflicts over cleaning and often older, less energy-efficient buildings.

Option 2: Managed coliving

Coliving is the professionalised version of a shared flat. You rent a private bedroom and bathroom (ensuite) within a large residence that shares high-end communal areas like gyms, cinemas or coworking spaces. These are run by companies, not individual landlords.

Cost realityExpect to pay between €1,100 and €1,600 per month. This price is significantly higher than a shared flat but it is usually "all-inclusive". It covers rent, high-speed internet, weekly cleaning and all utilities. There are no surprise bills at the end of the month.

The admin hurdleColiving operators are built for expats. Leases are flexible (often cancellable with one month's notice) and deposits are usually lower, often just one month's rent. Registration is guaranteed and the process is digital and fast.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Zero admin hassle, networking opportunities, modern facilities and predictable monthly costs.
• Cons: Price-per-square-metre is high, bedrooms can be small and the "dormitory" atmosphere does not suit everyone.

Option 3: Private furnished apartment

For those who value total privacy, a studio or one-bedroom apartment is the goal. This option essentially means entering the traditional rental market but filtering strictly for "furnished" properties.

Cost realityA decent furnished studio in Luxembourg City starts at €1,450 and easily reaches €1,850 for a modern unit. On top of this, you must pay monthly charges ( charges locatives ) of €200-€300.

The admin hurdleThis is the most difficult route for a new arrival. You will need a permanent work contract (CDI) to be taken seriously. You must set up your own electricity and internet contracts, pay a two-month deposit and pay your share of the agency fees (50% of one month's rent + VAT). It is a heavy financial and logistical burden for a six-month stay.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Total privacy, your own kitchen and bathroom, quiet environment.
• Cons: Extremely expensive upfront, rigid contracts (usually one year minimum), lonely for newcomers and time-consuming to set up.

Making the choice

If your budget is tight and you know people already, a shared flat is a solid choice. If you are here for a specific project or probation period and want zero hassle, coliving offers the smoothest landing. If you have a high budget and demand privacy, a private apartment is best, but be prepared for the paperwork.

How StaysCo helps

We bridge the gap between expensive hotels and the rigid long-term rental market. StaysCo offers vetted, furnished apartments and studios that are perfect for your first few months. We handle the cleaning, utilities and linen so you can walk in and start living. Whether you need a place for 30 days or six months, we provide a professional, private space without the agency fees or administrative headaches.

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