How to Find a Roommate on Craigslist

You can find just about anything on Craigslist, including a roommate. Just follow these steps.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Access
• Computer

Instructions

1. Visit the Craigslist home page (see Resources below) and choose your location. Select a state from the long list on the right. Next, select the city or metropolitan area nearest to where you want to live.

2. Browse the "Housing" postings. There is an entire heading devoted to roommates seeking roommates under "Room/Shared." Check out "Sublets/Temporary" as well.

3. Do a search. Type in "roommate wanted" or just "roommate" in the field on the left. Select "All Housing" from the pull-down menu, then click the "Search" button to display your results.

4. Click on a heading that interests you and view the details. Near the top of the page, you will see an email address for the person who has posted the ad or they will have included other contact information, such as a phone number. If a particular roommate situation appeals to you, reply to that post.

5. Make your own post. Posting to Craigslist is free! Simply click "Post to Classifieds" from the main page on the left. Select "Housing" and then follow the instructions. Note: You'll need a valid email address so that you can confirm your posting.

Tips & Warnings

• When posting, include price, number of bedrooms, location and an enticing detail in the headline (keep it brief).

• Don't hesitate to contact a poster for more details. People tend to be more candid in conversation.

• Craigslist does not guarantee the integrity of each posting. Be wary and read the warnings by clicking "Avoid Scams and Fraud" before replying to a post or making one.

• Don't delete your confirmation email from Craigslist! You'll need it to edit or delete your post.

• Craigslist only allows you to make one post per location in a 48-hour period. Make it count the first time and edit for changes rather than make a brand-new post.