"Dwells" is a word commonly used to describe where someone lives. However, there are many synonyms that can be used to provide more variety and explanation in your writing. These include "resides," "lives," "occupies," "inhabits," "settles," "sojourns," and "lodges." Each of these words can provide a slightly different meaning depending on the context in which they are used. For example, "inhabits" may imply more of a permanent residence while "sojourns" may imply a temporary stay. By using a variety of synonyms, you can paint a more vivid picture of the setting and characters in your writing.