The community is not a primary income source for residents. There is no shared community economy. If the community provides residents with their primary income, this is a significant change to the dynamic between neighbors and defines another level of community beyond the scope of cohousing. Homes in a cohousing community are generally clustered around a pedestrian friendly green area. The roads and parking areas for the community are designed to eliminate automobiles from the interior of the community.
Children can play outdoors freely and safely.
The homes are designed just like any other home. However, homes in cohousing communities are slightly smaller than conventional homes because the space is designed very efficiently. Smaller home footprints increase the amount of available green space. Often homes have porches or patios, which add to the neighborly feel of the community. Usually they are built with better materials and greater care because the residents intend to live in the community for a long time.