The Best Apps for Managing Shared Expenses

How to Keep Shared Finances Smooth in a Shared Apartment

Living with roommates means sharing not just space, but also expenses—like rent, utilities, groceries, and cleaning supplies. Without a clear system, misunderstandings can pile up fast. Thankfully, a handful of apps can help you track who owes what, automate reminders, and avoid awkward money talks.

Whether you're living in Madrid, Berlin, or Lisbon, here are the best apps to keep your shared apartment finances stress-free.

1. Splitwise – The Gold Standard for Shared Costs

Splitwise is a favorite among roommates for good reason.

✔ Add expenses as they come up
✔ Assign amounts to individuals or split evenly
✔ Automatically tracks balances and debts

💡 Use it for: Rent, groceries, cleaning supplies, weekend trips

Bonus: It integrates with PayPal and Venmo, so you can settle up in seconds.

2. Tricount – Group Expense Tracking Simplified

Tricount is another user-friendly app perfect for managing shared expenses in flatshares.

✔ Great for tracking ongoing household expenses
✔ Clear breakdown of who owes what
✔ Supports multiple currencies and offline mode

💡 Especially useful for temporary flatmates or Erasmus students sharing short-term costs.

3. Settle Up – Colorful, Functional, and Reliable

Settle Up offers a simple yet effective way to manage costs with a more visual layout.

✔ Assign recurring or one-time costs
✔ Export summaries and reports
✔ Track payments both online and offline

💡 Ideal for flatshares with rotating members or travel buddies who become housemates.

4. BeRoomie – Matching You With Compatible Roommates

While not an expense tracker itself, BeRoomie helps ensure your roommates align with your lifestyle—including financial habits.

✔ Match with flatmates who value clear communication and shared responsibilities
✔ Find listings with info on cost breakdowns, utilities included, and move-in readiness
✔ Avoid surprises by filtering for budget range and rent expectations

A solid financial relationship often starts before you even move in, and BeRoomie makes that easier.

Learn more at BeRoomie.app

5. Google Sheets – For the DIY Budgeter

Prefer to keep things old-school? A shared Google Sheet can still be an effective tool.

✔ Customize to your exact needs
✔ Use formulas for automatic totals
✔ Share in real-time with all roommates

💡 Best for roommates who want full control over how their expenses are recorded.

Final Thoughts

Living in a shared apartment doesn't have to mean financial confusion. By using the right tools, you can make sure everyone contributes fairly—and keep the peace in your shared home.

Whether you're using Splitwise to track bills or BeRoomie to find a financially compatible flatmate, a bit of organization goes a long way toward a smooth and stress-free co-living experience.