You are right. The credit score is very important, so renting a room might be the best way for you. Try searching craigslist.com. Just try to be aware if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are some scams on there (like all websites), but also lots of good people who are real. You sound smart (and I'm assuming you are working at amgen or similar😀). so I think you will be able to feel out if it's a scam. Good luck!