How do you deal with the eeriness of living alone?

I'm not talking about feeling concerned for your safety at home or feeling lonely living by yourself. I've been living with a roommate for the past two years but will soon be living by myself for the first time. In the past, when my roommate has been gone for an extended period of time, I feel a little creeped out being alone. I know that no one is in my home with me, but the silence, and the spaces that I can't always see just freak me out. There is something to me that feels so uncomfortable about a space that is empty and quiet other than you. Has anyone else experienced this and has ideas on how to address this issue? I'd consider getting a pet to keep me company all the time, but my rental agreement and lifestyle don't really allow for pets at the moment.