A cohousing community is a type of intentional community composed of private homes with full kitchens, supplemented by extensive common facilities. A cohousing community is owned and managed by the residents, groups of people who want more interaction with their neighbors. Common facilities vary but usually include a large kitchen and dining room where residents can take turns cooking for the community. Other facilities may include a laundry room, a pool, child care facilities, guest rooms, a game room, workshop, and exercise room or fitness center. Through spatial design and shared social and management activities, cohousing facilitates interaction among neighbors for social and practical benefits. There are also economic and environmental benefits to sharing resources, space, and items.
Hundreds of cohousing communities exist in Denmark and other countries in northern Europe.
There are more than 113
operating communities in the United States with more than 100 others
in planning phases. 
In Canada, there are
seven completed communities and fifteen in development.
There are also communities in
Australia, the UK, and other parts of the world.
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Cohousing differs from standard condominium development and master-planned subdivisions in regard to the degree of community self-management and self-maintenance.
The design process emphasizes consciously fostering social relationships among its residents. Common facilities are based on the actual needs of
the residents, rather than on what a developer thinks will help sell units.
Turnover in cohousing developments is typically very low, and there is usually a waiting list for units to become available.
For more information, please visit the Cohousing Association.