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What are Boarding Houses?

Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

Boarding houses have become a rare sight in the United States, but at one time they served roughly the same purpose as modern "bed and breakfast" establishments. At least one daily meal would be included in the boarders' rent, whether it be a communal breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In exchange for a bed and meals, individual tenants might also be expected to share in the maintenance chores and other tasks assigned by the landlord or homeowner.

For itinerant workers and travelers, boarding houses provide an inexpensive alternative to hotels or short-term apartment rentals. The rooms were often spacious enough for a single person's needs, even if bathroom facilities had to be shared or privacy was limited. Some boarding houses now provide private bathrooms for boarders and better insulation between rooms for a sense of privacy. The beds may have once served as the beds for the owner's family members, so they should be reasonably comfortable and clean.

Private boarding schools are similar to old-fashioned boarding houses.
Private boarding schools are similar to old-fashioned boarding houses.

Economic need quite often drives owners of large houses to consider turning them into boarding houses. In his semi-autobiographical novel Look Homeward, Angel, author Thomas Wolfe describes his experiences growing up in such an establishment, operated by his mother. Many of the boarders were colorful characters, making for an interesting mixture of cultures and backgrounds. During the height of their popularity, tenants tended to stay for months or even years, becoming part of an extended family of sorts. As boarders moved on to other towns, others moved in to take their place.

Tenants at a boarding house typically share in the chores.
Tenants at a boarding house typically share in the chores.

A general shift in the working class of American society gradually spelled the end for many boarding houses. Fewer single workers felt secure living communally with near-strangers. Those who could afford small apartments or find roommates to share expenses moved out. Many owners became disenchanted with their roles as both landlords and cooks. It became more tempting to convert their large homes into apartments or limit their use to a bed and breakfast arrangement.

People living in a boarding house may use a shared laundry space.
People living in a boarding house may use a shared laundry space.

Boarding houses can still be found in the United States, although many have become closer to rooming houses or youth hostels without the communal meals. The practice is more common overseas, particularly in conjunction with what Americans call private schools and Europeans call public schools. These homes provide students with a bed and complete meals throughout the school term.

Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

A regular WiseTour contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.

Learn more...
Michael Pollick
Michael Pollick

A regular WiseTour contributor, Michael enjoys doing research in order to satisfy his wide-ranging curiosity about a variety of arcane topics. Before becoming a professional writer, Michael worked as an English tutor, poet, voice-over artist, and DJ.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon71122

what is the amount of rent that is needed to be charged in a boarding house?

anon64842

I think boarding houses would help solve the "near" homeless or homeless in cities all around the country.

anon40890

I would also like to know the same thing.

anon28043

I'm very interested in leasing my house out as a boarding house. Do you have to have a license. What about the neighbors?

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    • Private boarding schools are similar to old-fashioned boarding houses.
      By: Rob Byron
      Private boarding schools are similar to old-fashioned boarding houses.
    • Tenants at a boarding house typically share in the chores.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Tenants at a boarding house typically share in the chores.
    • People living in a boarding house may use a shared laundry space.
      By: Africa Studio
      People living in a boarding house may use a shared laundry space.
    • Some boarding houses provide an independent living option for seniors.
      By: De Visu
      Some boarding houses provide an independent living option for seniors.
    • Boarding houses may have a minimal housekeeping staff in place.
      By: pio3
      Boarding houses may have a minimal housekeeping staff in place.
    • Private schools may also serve as a boarding house for students.
      By: Andy Dean
      Private schools may also serve as a boarding house for students.
    • Boarding houses for the elderly may provide opportunities for grandchildren to visit.
      By: Daddy Cool
      Boarding houses for the elderly may provide opportunities for grandchildren to visit.