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7 Reasons to Live in Cohousing

1. It fits modern living conditions. 

Cohousing relieves the isolation we have been experiencing during the last two years and allows families with similar values to live in ecologically sensitive neighborhoods they help design. People who work remotely can find a quiet spot in the Common House to work without distraction. Because the residents share amenities, the cost of living is more affordable. As one cohouser described it, “We are like a herd of elephants—stronger and better when we work together.”

2. It strengthens social ties.

Living in housing designed as a close-knit neighborhood makes it is easier to develop, maintain and build deep connections with others, providing residents with a kind of extended family. This was mentioned as particularly valued by teens. The Common House allows for dining together and group activities. Residents encounter one another more often than when living in most housing developments. Conventional physical barriers to neighborly interaction, such as front-yard garages and cars, are placed at the perimeter of the neighborhood in cohousing.

3. It increases the family’s variety of experiences.

Living in a community of diverse people with many life experiences and interests makes one appreciate different life perspectives. Happiness research indicates that exposure to novelty increases dopamine in the brain. Dopamine increases feelings of happiness. Cohousing communities expand their members’ exposure to new ideas and interests through activities on the premises such as book discussions, yoga, movies, theater, and holiday celebrations, to name a few.

4. It encourages learning and personal growth.

Living in close proximity with others who have chosen cohousing improves opportunities to share skills and develop new talents. One might grow vegetables in the community garden, produce arts and crafts in the workshop, or teach and take classes given by members in the Common House.

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5. It promotes healthy living. 

Exercising together in the Common House or outside the neighborhood is an encouraged part of cohousing life. There might be yoga, dance, or other movement classes offered on a regular basis. Notices on the community’s bulletin board or electronic communications alert residents where to learn about important health issues. Cohousing communities band together to assist residents with newborns, illnesses, in bereavement, or with other needs. Neighbors help with offers of transportation, childcare, meals, etc.

6. It provides enlarged opportunity for sharing interests and concerns. 

Though a couple may not share an interest such as football, sewing, or photography, most likely someone else in the cohousing neighborhood will, thus opening up additional ways of social bonding. Likewise, in a group of 40 to 60 people living in close proximity, organizing for a particular charitable or other local benefit is easier and more likely to succeed. Commitments to worthwhile causes are contagious and promote hopeful, creative, and generous living.

7. It is a more sustainable way of life.

In addition to having a community garden, cohousing communities emphasize sustainable ways of living. The goal is to share resources and thereby conserve them. This translates to reduced use of water and energy. Sustainability begins with the architectural design, as in the Mountain View Cohousing Community. The roof of the building is angled so the sun shines directly into the units for warmth in the winter but not in the summer. Windows are positioned to allow air to flow through the units so there is no need for air conditioning. Living units are clustered on the property to make less of an ecologically damaging footprint.

If this sounds like where you want to be, join us!

To get involved, register for an Upcoming Event today!

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