9 Cheap Housing Alternatives to Renting and Buying

Be a Live-In Caretaker

Elderly people or those with disabilities may need someone to help them with certain daily tasks they cannot do themselves.

Be a Nanny or Au Pair

Families with young children will sometimes hire a live-in nanny or au pair who can care for the children while the parents work, and may also be asked to do cooking or light housework. 

Be a Property Manager

Working as a property manager often comes with a free place to live in the building you're managing, as well as a salary.

Move in with Family or Friends

If you have friends or family with an extra bedroom, moving in with them could be a way to beat the high cost of housing.

Be a House Sitter

This can be a short-term solution, or a longer term one if you're flexible. When homeowners will be away for an extended period of time, they may want someone to stay in their home.

Work on a Cruise Ship

Cruise ship employees receive housing as part of their compensation, because they have to live on the ship.

Work at a Resort

Resorts, especially those located in out-of-the-way places, often provide housing for their employees.

Get a Resident Life Staff Position at a College

Colleges and universities hire adults to live in dormitories and oversee the student resident assistants. While it's a 24/7 job, there may be an extra perk: you may be able to take classes for free.

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